Dallas/Fort Worth Airport (DFW) Drop-Off Zones and Charges
Navigate the drop-off process at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) with ease. Learn about the $6 toll tag charge for terminal drop-offs, free parking alternatives, and payment options to ensure a smooth experience.
DFW Airport Terminal Drop-Off Guide
Planning to drop off passengers at DFW Airport? This comprehensive guide covers the 2025 drop-off charges, payment methods, free alternatives, and more to help you avoid penalties and save time.
Why Does DFW Charge a Drop-Off Fee?
- Manage terminal traffic and reduce congestion
- Promote eco-friendly transport options
- Fund airport infrastructure and operations
DFW Airport Drop-Off Charges – Key Details
| Charge Amount | $6 per vehicle with TollTag, $8 without TollTag |
|---|---|
| Effective From | January 1, 2025 |
| Applies To | All vehicles entering terminal drop-off zones |
| Time | 24/7, 365 days a year |
| Terminals Covered | Terminals A, B, C, D, E |
| Monitoring | Automated TollTag and license plate recognition |
| How to Pay | TollTag, online, or by mail |
| Penalty for Non-Payment | $40 fine, escalating to $100 if unpaid after 30 days |
When Does the Charge Apply?
The drop-off charge applies 24/7, including holidays, for all vehicles entering the terminal drop-off zones.
How Is It Monitored?
DFW Airport uses TollTag technology and license plate recognition cameras to track vehicles. There are no physical barriers, ensuring a seamless entry process.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
If the charge isn’t paid by the due date, a $40 fine is issued, which increases to $100 if unpaid after 30 days.
| Penalty Details | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Fine | $40 |
| After 30 Days | $100 |
How to Pay DFW Airport Drop-Off Charges
All vehicles entering DFW’s terminal drop-off zones are charged $6 with a TollTag or $8 without. Payments can be made via TollTag, online, or by mail. Ensure payment is completed to avoid fines.
Payment Options
- TollTag: Automatic deduction for registered users
- Online: Pay via the DFW Airport website
- Mail: Pay using the invoice sent to the vehicle’s registered address
For payment issues or inquiries, contact DFW Customer Service:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (972) 973-3112
- Webchat: Available on DFW’s official website
TollTag Pre-Authorization Hold
| Payment Process | Details |
|---|---|
| $1 Pre-Authorization Hold | A temporary $1 hold may be placed to verify card validity (not a charge). |
| Purpose | Ensures the payment method is active and funds are available. |
| Refundable? | Yes, released within a few days. |
DFW Airport Drop-Off Zones – Terminals A, B, C, D, E
Each terminal at DFW has designated drop-off zones. Follow signs to the correct terminal to avoid confusion and ensure a quick drop-off.
Terminal A Drop-Off
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper level, follow signs from International Parkway |
| Lanes | Multiple lanes for quick drop-offs |
| Fee | $6 (TollTag) or $8 (no TollTag) |
| Tip | No waiting; use Express Parking for pick-ups |
Terminal B Drop-Off
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper level, accessible via International Parkway |
| Lanes | Three designated lanes |
| Fee | $6 (TollTag) or $8 (no TollTag) |
| Tip | Avoid parking; use Cell Phone Lot for waiting |
Terminal C Drop-Off
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper level, follow signs from North Airport Drive |
| Lanes | Two lanes for drop-offs |
| Fee | $6 (TollTag) or $8 (no TollTag) |
| Tip | No unattended vehicles allowed |
Terminal D Drop-Off
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper level, via International Parkway |
| Lanes | Multiple lanes for international flights |
| Fee | $6 (TollTag) or $8 (no TollTag) |
| Tip | Use Valet Parking for a premium experience |
Terminal E Drop-Off
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper level, follow South Airport Drive |
| Lanes | Two lanes for quick drop-offs |
| Fee | $6 (TollTag) or $8 (no TollTag) |
| Tip | Use Express Parking for pick-ups |
Free Drop-Off Alternatives at DFW Airport
Avoid the drop-off charge by using these free parking options:
Cell Phone Lots
| Location | Details |
|---|---|
| North Cell Phone Lot | Free waiting area, 5-10 minute drive to terminals |
| South Cell Phone Lot | Free for short-term waiting, near Terminal E |
Express Parking (Free for Short Stays)
Park for free for up to 2 hours at Express North or South lots, with shuttle service to terminals.
Important Drop-Off Rules
- ❌ No unattended vehicles in drop-off zones
- ❌ No pick-ups in drop-off zones
- ✔️ Use Cell Phone Lots or Express Parking for pick-ups
- ✔️ Pay fees on time to avoid fines
Blue Badge Holders: Discounts and Benefits at DFW
Blue Badge holders can access special accommodations at DFW Airport, including free drop-off and parking benefits.
Benefits for Blue Badge Holders
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Free Drop-Off | 100% discount on terminal drop-off charges |
| Free Parking | Up to 2 hours free in Express Parking lots |
| Application | Register badge details with DFW Parking Services |
How to Apply for Blue Badge Benefits
- Contact DFW Parking Services at (972) 973-4840
- Submit Blue Badge details and vehicle registration
- Apply up to 30 days in advance
Vehicle Exemptions and Discounts at DFW
Exempt Vehicles
| Vehicle Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Emergency Vehicles | Ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles are exempt |
| Airport Shuttles | Official DFW shuttles are not charged |
Discounted Vehicles
| Vehicle Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Taxis with Permits | Registered taxis may receive discounted rates |
| Motorbikes | Eligible for reduced fees in some cases |
Taxi and Rideshare Drop-Off Charges
Taxis and rideshare vehicles (e.g., Uber, Lyft) are charged $6 with TollTag or $8 without. Many drivers use a business TollTag account for automatic payments.
Ensure payment is made by the due date to avoid penalties.