Starting today, new FASTag rules are in place to make toll collection smoother and reduce traffic on national highways. To avoid issues at toll plazas, users need to update their FASTag accounts and follow new procedures.
What is FASTag?
FASTag is a small, rechargeable tag attached to your vehicle's windshield. It uses RFID technology to make toll payments directly from your linked account, allowing you to pass through toll plazas without stopping.
Key Changes from August 1
- KYC Process Update:
- Replace FASTag accounts older than five years.
- Update KYC details for accounts three years or older by October 31.
- Mandatory Linking:
- Link FASTag to your vehicle's registration and chassis number, and your phone number.
- Upload photos of your vehicle for verification.
- Increased Toll for Non-Compliance:
- Vehicles without FASTags will be charged double the standard toll fee.
Important Updates
The most crucial change involves updating the Know Your Customer (KYC) process. FASTag accounts older than five years must be replaced from August 1. Users should check when their FASTag accounts were issued and get replacements if necessary. Accounts three years or older need to renew their KYC details by October 31. If you don’t update your KYC, your FASTag account might get blacklisted.
Another major change is the mandatory linking of FASTag accounts to the vehicle's registration number, chassis number, and owner's phone number. This step aims to prevent misuse, where one FASTag was used for multiple vehicles. Users must also upload photos of their vehicle's front and side for verification. For new vehicles purchased from August 1, the registration number must be updated within three months.
These new rules, introduced by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), aim to promote the use of FASTags, making toll collection more efficient and reducing wait times at toll plazas. They apply to all national highways in India and are part of a broader move towards a more digital and streamlined transportation system.
Key Points About FASTag
- Vehicle-Specific: Once affixed, it can't be transferred to another vehicle.
- Availability: Buy from any NETC Member Bank.
- Rechargeable: If linked to a prepaid account, it needs recharging based on usage.
- Blacklisting: If the account balance is low, the FASTag will be blacklisted, and you'll need to pay cash at the toll plaza.
FASTag Usage in India
With about 98% penetration and over 80 million users, FASTag has greatly improved toll collection in India. NHAI collects tolls on about 45,000 km of national highways and expressways at around 1,000 toll plazas nationwide.
How to Check FASTag Status
To check the status of your FASTag:
- Visit the official website at NPCI FASTag Status Check.
- Enter your vehicle details.
- Click “Submit.”
- Review the status information for each FASTag linked to your vehicle.
Watch Out for Incomplete FASTag KYC
If your FASTag KYC is incomplete, you will receive notifications via email, SMS, or the bank's app.
To update your KYC:
- For NHAI FASTags: Visit IHMCL FASTag, log in, and update your KYC online.
- For bank-issued FASTags: Visit NETC FASTag Request, select your issuing bank, and follow the link to update your KYC online.
If you don't get any notifications, your KYC is complete.
