Starting today, new regulations for FASTag usage are being implemented to enhance toll collection efficiency and alleviate congestion on national highways. These changes necessitate that users update their accounts and adhere to new procedures to avoid issues at toll plazas.What is FASTag?

FASTag is an RFID passive tag designed for toll payments, allowing deductions directly from your linked prepaid or savings/current account. Affixed to your vehicle's windscreen, it enables seamless passage through toll plazas without stopping for payment, with the toll fare being automatically debited from your account.

Key Changes Effective August 1

  1. KYC Process Update:

    • Replace FASTag accounts that are older than five years.
    • Update KYC details for accounts three years or older by October 31.

  2. Mandatory Linking:

    • Link FASTag to the vehicle's registration number, chassis number, and owner's phone number.
    • Upload photos of the vehicle for account verification.

  3. Increased Toll for Non-Compliance:

    • Vehicles without FASTags will be charged double the standard toll fee.

Important Updates

The most significant update involves the Know Your Customer (KYC) process. FASTag accounts older than five years must be replaced starting August 1. Users should check the issuance date of their FASTag accounts and obtain replacements from their issuing authorities, as old accounts will become invalid. Additionally, accounts three years or older must update their KYC details by October 31. Failure to comply with these KYC requirements could result in the blacklisting of the FASTag accounts.

Another crucial change is the mandatory linking of the FASTag account to the vehicle's registration number, chassis number, and the owner's phone number. This measure aims to prevent the misuse of FASTags, which previously allowed one account to be used for multiple vehicles. Users are also required to upload photos of the vehicle's front and side to complete the linking process. For new vehicles purchased from August 1 onwards, the registration number must be updated within three months of purchase.

NHAI Guidelines

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) introduced these guidelines to promote the widespread adoption of FASTags, making toll collection more efficient and reducing waiting times at toll plazas. These new rules apply to all national highways across India and are part of a broader push towards a more streamlined and digitized transportation infrastructure.

Key Points about FASTag:

  • Vehicle-Specific: Once affixed, it cannot be transferred to another vehicle.
  • Availability: Can be purchased from any NETC Member Bank.
  • Rechargeable: Needs to be recharged based on usage if linked to a prepaid account.
  • Blacklisting: Insufficient account balance will result in the FASTag being blacklisted, requiring cash payment at the toll plaza.

FASTag Usage in India

With a penetration rate of around 98% and over 80 million users, FASTag has significantly improved the Electronic Toll Collection system in India. NHAI collects user fees on National Highways under the National Highway Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008. Currently, user fees are collected for approximately 45,000 km of National Highways and Expressways at around 1,000 Toll Plazas nationwide.

How to Check FASTag Status

To verify the status of FASTags linked to your vehicle:

  1. Visit the official website at NPCI FASTag Status Check
  2. Enter your vehicle details.
  3. Select “Submit.”
  4. Review the status information provided for each FASTag associated with your vehicle.

Incomplete FASTag KYC

If your FASTag KYC is incomplete, notifications will be sent via email, SMS, or the bank's app. To update your KYC:

  • For NHAI FASTags: Visit NHAI FASTag, log in, and update your KYC online.
  • For bank-issued FASTags: Visit NETC FASTag, select your issuing bank, and follow the link to update your KYC online.

The absence of notifications indicates your KYC is complete.