Whether you’re commuting to work, embarking on a road trip, or transporting goods across the country, the last thing you want is to waste precious time waiting in long toll booth queues. This is where NHAI Fastag comes to the rescue!
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has embraced technological advancements to streamline toll collection, making your journeys faster, more convenient, and hassle-free.
In this comprehensive blog, we will explore its benefits, explain the registration process, and everything you need and should know about this innovative technology.
About NHAI
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is a government agency established in 1988 under the National Highways Authority of India Act, 1988. NHAI operates under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India. Its primary objective is to oversee the development, maintenance, and management of the national highway network in India.
Here are some key functions and responsibilities of NHAI:
- Highway Development: NHAI is responsible for planning, development, and maintenance of the national highway network in India. This network plays a critical role in the transportation of goods and people across the country.
- Project Implementation: NHAI takes on the task of implementing highway projects, which includes constructing new highways, expanding existing ones, and upgrading road infrastructure to meet growing demands.
- Toll Collection: NHAI manages the collection of tolls on many national highways. The revenue generated from toll collection is reinvested into highway development and maintenance.
- Safety and Efficiency: Ensuring safety on highways and optimizing traffic flow are crucial aspects of NHAI’s responsibilities. This includes implementing measures such as electronic toll collection systems like NHAI FASTag to reduce congestion at toll plazas.
- Environmental and Social Sustainability: NHAI considers environmental and social aspects when planning and executing highway projects, ensuring that these developments have minimal negative impacts on the environment and local communities.
What is NHAI FASTag?
NHAI Fastag is an electronic toll collection system implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). It utilizes RFID technology to enable automated and cashless payment of tolls at toll plazas. Users affix an RFID sticker to their vehicles, and this sticker is linked to a prepaid account or a linked bank account. As vehicles approach a toll booth, the toll amount is deducted automatically from the linked account, ensuring a convenient and efficient toll payment process.
NHAI FASTag not only simplifies the toll payment process but also contributes to reduced traffic congestion, fuel savings, and improved environmental outcomes by reducing vehicle idling time at toll booths. As of February 2021, NHAI has made FASTag mandatory for all four-wheeler vehicles, both commercial and personal, further promoting its adoption and the move toward a more efficient and digital highway experience.
Benefits of NHAI Fastag
The advantages of NHAI FASTag are aplenty:
- Time-Saving: With NHAI FASTag, waiting in long queues at toll booths is a thing of the past. Vehicles equipped with FASTag can pass through toll plazas without stopping, saving precious time during journeys.
- Reduced Congestion: Fast and efficient toll booth clearance for FASTag users translates to reduced traffic congestion at toll plazas. This benefits all travelers, contributing to smoother traffic flow.
- Cashless Transactions: NHAI FASTag promotes a cashless transaction environment, minimizing the risk of theft and making toll collection more secure and transparent.
- Online Account Management: Users can conveniently manage their FASTag accounts online. This includes checking account balances, reviewing transaction histories, and recharging FASTag wallets through user-friendly websites and mobile apps.
- Cost Savings: FASTag users may be eligible for discounts and cashback offers at select toll plazas, leading to potential savings on toll expenses.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduced idling time at toll booths results in lower fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with environmental conservation efforts.
- Enhanced Safety: NHAI FASTag reduces the likelihood of accidents and confrontations at toll booths since there is no need to stop or interact with toll booth attendants.
- Nationwide Acceptance: NHAI FASTag is accepted at toll plazas throughout the country, offering a standardized and convenient toll payment method for travelers on national highways.
- Real-Time Notifications: FASTag users receive SMS and email notifications for each transaction, enabling them to keep track of toll expenses and account activity.
What Are the Major Features of NHAI FASTag?
- One-time joining and issuance fee: To obtain NHAI FASTag, you are required to pay a one-time joining and issuance fee of Rs.100 (excluding GST). Additionally, a refundable security deposit ranging from Rs.200 to Rs.500 is also applicable.
- Validity: NHAI FASTag remains valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issue. After this period, you will need to get the FASTag re-issued.
- Attachment: Once obtained, the FASTag sticker needs to be affixed to the windshield of your vehicle. It is designed to be permanently attached in this manner.
- Automatic toll deduction: The main purpose of NHAI FASTag is to enable seamless payment of toll taxes at designated toll plazas. The toll amount is automatically deducted from your linked FASTag account, eliminating the need for cash transactions at toll booths.
- Account recharge: To ensure uninterrupted usage, you need to periodically recharge your FASTag account. This can be done online using various payment modes such as debit/credit cards, net banking, or UPI or by using Paytm wallet.
- Online management: Once your FASTag is activated, you gain access to an online portal or mobile application provided by the issuer. Through this platform, you can conveniently recharge your account, check transaction history, and monitor your balance anytime and from anywhere.
- Multiple vehicles: If you own multiple vehicles, each vehicle will require a separate FASTag. It is important to purchase and link a separate FASTag to each vehicle for accurate toll deduction and account management.
- Offline purchase: NHAI FASTag can be obtained offline from authorized point-of-sales locations such as select petrol pumps and toll plazas. These outlets are equipped to assist you in the purchase, activation, and initial account recharge for your FASTag.
What is the Validity of NHAI FASTag?
The validity of a FASTag is 5 years from the date of issuance. Once you purchase a FASTag, you only need to recharge or top up the tag as per your requirement during that period. It is important to keep the FASTag account adequately funded to ensure smooth toll payments and avoid any inconvenience while using the tag.
What are the Fees for NHAI FASTag?
Vehicle Description | Security Deposit (Refundable) | Recharge Amount (Minimum) |
---|---|---|
3-axle commercial vehicle | Rs.400 | Rs.300 |
4 to 6-axle – Truck | Rs.500 | Rs.300 |
3-axle – Bus | Rs.400 | Rs.300 |
Van/Jeep/Car/Tata Ace | Rs.200 | Rs.100 |
Light Commercial Vehicle – 3-Axle | Rs.400 | Rs.300 |
7 or more axle – Truck | Rs.500 | Rs.300 |
Heavy Construction Machinery/Earth Movers | Rs.500 | Rs.300 |
Light Commercial Vehicle – 2-Axle | Rs.300 | Rs.150 |
2-axle – Bus | Rs.500 | Rs.300 |
Mini Bus | Rs.300 | Rs.150 |
3-axle – Truck | Rs.500 | Rs.300 |
What is NHAI FASTag Customer Care Number?
Issuing Bank | Customer Care Helpline No |
---|---|
Airtel Payments Bank | 400/8800-688-006 |
Allahabad Bank | 1800-258-6680 |
AU Small Finance Bank | 1800-258-7300 |
Axis Bank Ltd | 1860-419-8585 |
Bank of Baroda | 1800-103-4568 |
Canara Bank | 1800-103-3568 |
City Union Bank Ltd | 1800-258-7200 |
Equitas Small Finance Bank | 1800-103-1222 |
Federal Bank | 1800-266-9520 |
FINO Payments Bank | 022-6868-1414 |
HDFC Bank | 1800-120-1243 |
ICICI Bank | 1800-210-0104 |
IDBI Bank | 1800-266-1962 |
IDFC First Bank | 1800-266-9970 |
IndusInd Bank | 1860-210-8887 |
Karur Vysya Bank | 1800-102-1916 |
Kotak Mahindra Bank | 18-602-666-888 |
Nagpur Nagarik Sahakari Bank | 1800-266-7183 |
PAYTM Bank | 1800-120-4210 |
Punjab Maharashtra Bank | NA |
Punjab National Bank | 1800-419-6610 |
Saraswat Bank | 1800-229-999/1800-266-5555 |
South Indian Bank | 1800-425-1809 |
State Bank of India | 1800-110-018 |
Syndicate Bank | 1800-3011-3333 |
Union Bank of India | 1800-258-6400 |
YES BANK | 1800-3000-1113 |
Note that this information is subject to change, and it’s always a good idea to verify the customer care helpline number from the official website of the respective bank.
How to Buy NHAI FASTag Online and Offline?
You can obtain a FASTag through several convenient methods:
- Digital Payment Applications:
- Open the Paytm app on your device.
- Use the search bar and type ‘FASTag.’
- On the following screen, tap on ‘Buy FASTag.’
- On the next screen, verify your NHAI FASTag delivery address or update it to your current address.
- Enter your vehicle details and upload your RC (Registration Certificate). Then, proceed by selecting ‘Buy now.’
- On the subsequent page, select your preferred payment method, and you’ve successfully purchased your NHAI FASTag.
- Expect your FASTag to be delivered to your registered address within a few days.
- Banks:
- Visit any bank offering FASTag services.
- Fill out the FASTag application form.
- Submit the requisite documents along with the application form.
- Make the payment for your FASTag.
- Anticipate the delivery of your FASTag to your registered address in a few days.
- Toll Booths (Point of Sale – POS):
- Head to a Point of Sale (POS) terminal situated at various toll plazas.
- Ensure you carry all necessary documents and their original copies for verification.
- The issuing agency will check your documents before accepting your application.
- Following registration, a representative from the issuing agency will affix the FASTag to your vehicle’s windshield.
- Select Shops (Paytm Banking Correspondent Network):
- Open the Paytm app on your phone.
- On the home page, tap the ‘Search’ button and type ‘FASTag,’ then tap ‘Enter.’
- In the ‘Services’ section on the next screen, choose ‘Toll & FASTag.’
- Under ‘My Paytm FASTag,’ select ‘Buy from Nearby Store.’
- You can now either call the nearby store or get directions to visit them in person.
Which Documents Are Needed to Purchase FASTag?
To purchase a FASTag in India, you typically need the following documents:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC): You must provide a copy of your vehicle’s Registration Certificate as proof of ownership and to link the FASTag to the correct vehicle.
- Address Proof: You’ll need a document as proof of your address. Commonly accepted documents include a valid driving license, Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID, or any other government-issued address proof.
- Passport-Size Photograph: You may be required to submit one or more passport-size photographs of the vehicle owner.
- KYC Documents: Some banks and service providers might request Know Your Customer (KYC) documents, which could include a PAN (Permanent Account Number) card or any other government-issued ID.
- Application Form: You may need to fill out an application form provided by the issuing bank or service provider.
What is NHAI Fastag Monthly Pass?
NHAI Fastag Monthly Pass is a prepaid toll payment method that allows frequent users of highways to pay tolls electronically without stopping at toll plazas. It is a program offered by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and other toll operators in India. With a Fastag Monthly Pass, users can pay a fixed amount in advance for a specific duration, usually a month, to avail unlimited passage through toll plazas on specified highways. This pass is beneficial for individuals who frequently travel on highways and want to save time and avoid the hassle of paying tolls in cash.
How to Buy NHAI FASTag Monthly Pass?
The process to buy NHAI FASTAg monthly pass may vary from one NHAI FASTag issuer to another. However, given are the generic steps you may follow to get a NHAI FASTag monthly pass:
- Visit the official website of the Fastag issuer.
- Look for the option to purchase a Monthly Fastag Pass or a similar subscription plan.
- Click on the option to buy the Monthly Fastag Pass.
- Fill in the necessary details, such as your vehicle registration number, contact information, and other required information.
- Choose the duration of the monthly pass (usually a month) and select the desired highways or toll plazas where the pass will be valid.
- Provide the necessary documents, such as proof of vehicle ownership, identification, and address.
- Pay the prescribed fee for the Monthly Fastag Pass, which may vary depending on the issuer and the duration of the pass.
- Once the payment is made, the Fastag issuer will process your application and issue the Fastag Monthly Pass.
- The Fastag will be delivered to your registered address or can be collected from designated locations, as per the issuer’s guidelines.
- After receiving the Fastag, affix it to your vehicle’s windshield as instructed.
- Load the required amount into your Fastag wallet to activate the pass.
- You can now use the Monthly Fastag Pass for seamless passage through designated toll plazas without the need for cash transactions.
How to Buy NHAI FASTag Monthly Pass From NHAI Website?
To buy a Monthly Fastag Pass on the NHAI website, existing Fastag users can follow these steps:
- Visit the NHAI portal at nhai.gov.in and click on the “FASTag Monthly Pass” link.
- Select the name of the toll plaza for which you want to purchase the pass and enter the captcha.
- You will then be redirected to the acquiring bank’s page, where you can enter either your Tag ID or Vehicle Registration Number (VRN).
- Choose the pass type and pass scheme that suits your requirements, and proceed with the payment.
- After successful payment, you will receive a receipt. Print the receipt or download it for future reference.
How to Recharge Indian Highways Management Company (IHMC) Fastag on Paytm?
If your IHMC FASTag balance is running low, you should recharge it without delay. Here’s how you can do it online using the Paytm mobile app:
- Open the Paytm app on your mobile device.
- You have two choices:
- Go to the ‘Recharge’ section and select ‘FASTag Recharge.’
- Or, simply search for ‘FASTag recharge.’
- Select your IHMC FASTag issuing bank.
- Enter your vehicle registration number.
- Click ‘Proceed’ and specify the recharge amount.
- Choose your preferred payment method from options like Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, Paytm wallet, or UPI.
Also Read: Recharge IHMCL FASTag recharge Online
What Are the Steps for NHAI FASTag Login?
To log in to NHAI FASTag, follow these steps:
- Visit the NHAI FASTag website or portal.
- Look for the “Login” or “Sign In” option on the homepage and click on it.
- On the login page, enter your NHAI FASTag User ID and Password. If you are logging in for the first time, you may need to create an account by clicking on the “Register” or “Sign Up” option.
- After entering your credentials, click on the “Login” or “Submit” button.
- If the entered details are correct, you will be successfully logged in to your NHAI FASTag account.
- Once logged in, you can access and manage various features and services related to your NHAI FASTag, such as checking account balance, recharge or top-up, transaction history, updating personal information, and more.
What Are the Steps for Paytm FASTag Login?
- Open the Paytm app on your device.
- In the search bar, type “FASTag” and select the “Manage FASTag” option that appears. Alternatively, you can access the FASTag section within your Paytm wallet.
- If you are a new user, you can choose to purchase a FASTag from this section.
- For existing FASTag users, this section allows you to manage your FASTag account and view your transaction history.
- Additionally, you can find information on how to check your FASTag balance in a related section.
How to Recharge NHAI FASTag Online?
The steps to recharge NHAI FASTag may vary depending on the bank issuer. It is crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by the issuer for a seamless recharge process. However, here are some general instructions you can consider:
- Visit the official NHAI FASTag website or the website of your FASTag issuer.
- Look for the “Recharge” or “Top-up” option on the homepage or in the account section.
- Click on the “Recharge” or “Top-up” option.
- Enter your NHAI FASTag User ID or Wallet ID and password to log in to your account. If you are logging in for the first time, you may need to create an account.
- Once logged in, select the “Recharge” or “Top-up” option again.
- Enter the desired amount you want to recharge or top-up your FASTag account with.
- Choose the preferred payment method, such as credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.
- Follow the instructions to complete the payment process.
- After successful payment, the recharge amount will be credited to your NHAI FASTag account.
- You can check the updated balance in your FASTag account either through the website or the FASTag mobile app.
How to Recharge Paytm FASTag Online?
- Open the Paytm app on your mobile device.
- You have two choices:
- Go to the ‘Recharge’ section and select ‘FASTag Recharge.’
- Alternatively, simply search for ‘FASTag recharge.’
- Select your NHAI FASTag issuing bank.
- Enter your vehicle registration number.
- Click on ‘Proceed’ and specify the recharge amount you want.
- Choose your preferred payment method from options like Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, Paytm wallet, or UPI.
How do I Block My FASTag Account?
- Contact Customer Support: Reach out to the customer support or helpline of your FASTag issuer. You can usually find their contact information on their official website or documentation.
- Visit Issuer’s Office: In some cases, you may be able to visit the nearest office or branch of your FASTag issuer to request the account be blocked.
- Use the Issuer’s Mobile App: If your FASTag issuer has a dedicated mobile app, you might be able to initiate the account blocking process through the app.
- Online Account: Log in to your online FASTag account (if available) through the issuer’s website and look for options to block or deactivate the account.
- Visit Toll Plaza: You may also inquire about account blocking at the toll plaza associated with your FASTag. They might assist or guide you on the process.
How do I Block My Paytm FASTag Account?
- Log in to the Paytm app using the mobile number associated with your FASTag account.
- In the ‘Search Bar,’ type ‘FASTag’ and select ‘Manage FASTag’ from the ‘Services’ section.
- You’ll be taken to a screen that displays all your active FASTag accounts linked to your Paytm number.
- Scroll down to the bottom of the page and tap on the ‘Help & Support’ option.
- This action will redirect you to the FASTag Help & Support screen.
- Select ‘Need help with non-order related queries?’
- Choose the option ‘Queries related to updating FASTag profile.’
- Now, select ‘I want to close my FASTag’ and follow the provided steps.
Alternatively, you can contact Paytm’s customer care service at their toll-free number, 1800-120-4210, to close your FASTag account on Paytm. You’ll need to provide your mobile number, which is linked to the FASTag, along with your Vehicle Registration Number to the customer care executive.
How to Report an Incorrect FASTag Deduction and Get a Refund?
- Contact Customer Support: Reach out to the customer support or helpline of your FASTag issuer. You can usually find their contact information on their official website or documentation.
- Visit Issuer’s Office: In some cases, you may have the option to visit the nearest office or branch of your FASTag issuer to report the issue and request a refund.
- Use Online Account: Log in to your online FASTag account (if available) through the issuer’s website or mobile app and look for options to report the incorrect deduction or request a refund.
- Visit Toll Plaza: If you notice an error at a specific toll plaza, you can inquire about the issue and request assistance in resolving it at the toll plaza itself.
Keep in mind that the specific method and procedure for reporting and resolving incorrect FASTag deductions can vary depending on the issuer. It’s advisable to contact your FASTag issuer directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on how to report and resolve such issues.
Can I Use One NHAI FASTag for Two Vehicles?
No, one NHAI FASTag cannot be used for two vehicles. Each vehicle must have its own individual FASTag for toll payments. Using the same FASTag for multiple vehicles is not allowed and may result in incorrect toll charges or penalties. It is important to ensure that each vehicle has its own dedicated FASTag for seamless and accurate toll transactions.
How To Generate/ Reset FASTag Username and Password?
While the process to generate or reset a FASTag username and password can vary depending on the issuer, it is advisable to consult the issuer’s website or contact their customer support for specific instructions. However, here are some general steps to generate or reset a FASTag username and password:
- Visit the website or mobile app of your FASTag issuer.
- Look for the “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” option on the login page.
- Click on the respective option, and you will be prompted to enter some information for verification purposes.
- Provide the required details such as your registered mobile number, email address, or other identification information as per the issuer’s instructions.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the verification process.
- Once your information is verified, you will be able to generate a new username or reset your password.
- Create a strong and unique password, following any specified password requirements.
- Save your new username and password securely for future reference.
How to Download NHAI Fastag Statement?
- Open the Paytm app and tap on the ‘Search’ icon.
- Search for ‘Manage FASTag’ and press ‘Enter’.
- On the ‘Manage FASTag’ screen, you will find a list of your recent payments.
- To view your transactions for a longer period, you can click on the ‘Request Statement’ option.
Also Read: Download FASTag Statement
What is NHAI FASTag Scanner?
A FASTag scanner, found at toll gates on Indian highways, simplifies toll tax payment by allowing cashless transactions. Instead of stopping, your vehicle can drive through as the scanner reads your FASTag. The toll amount is then automatically deducted from your linked wallet, like Paytm. To ensure seamless payment, link your FASTag to your account or wallet. This aligns with the government’s push for cashless toll payments, as all toll lanes are being converted into FASTag lanes on Indian highways.
How to Check FASTag Balance through Different Methods
- Check FASTag Balance through Website:
- Visit the official website of your FASTag issuer.
- Log in to your FASTag account and look for the option to check your balance.
- You can also view your FASTag account statement to see previous payments.
- Check FASTag Balance through Mobile Application:
- Download the FASTag app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Sign in to the app and enter the necessary information.
- Once logged in, review your FASTag balance information.
- Check FASTag Balance through SMS:
- If you don’t have internet access, check your SMS inbox.
- Look for the SMS notification that was sent to you after the most recent toll tax deduction.
- The SMS will contain information about the deduction and the updated balance.
- Check FASTag Balance through Email Notification:
- NHAI will send an email to your registered ID whenever a toll fee is deducted from your FASTag wallet.
- Check your registered email inbox for the most recent FASTag deduction email.
- The email will provide details about the deduction and your current FASTag balance.
- Check FASTag Balance through FASTag Customer Care Helpline Number:
- Dial the toll-free number +91-8884333331 using your registered mobile number.
- Make a missed call to the helpline number.
- Shortly after the missed call, you will receive a notification with your current FASTag balance.
How to Check FASTag Balance on Paytm?
- Open the Paytm app on your device.
- On the home screen, locate and tap on the Paytm wallet icon.
- On the next screen, you will see a dropdown arrow. Tap on it.
- By clicking on the dropdown arrow, you will be able to easily check your FASTag balance.
How to Activate NHAI FASTag?
There are two methods to activate your FASTag. Here are the details for both:
- Self-Activation of FASTag:
- After purchasing your FASTag from a POS terminal or online platform, you can activate it yourself.
- Simply affix the FASTag to your vehicle’s windscreen and link it to your Paytm app.
- Your FASTag will be automatically activated.
It is recommended to link your FASTag to your Paytm wallet for added benefits such as earning reward points, discount vouchers, and cashback. With Paytm, you don’t need to recharge your FASTag account for each toll plaza visit. The toll amount will be deducted automatically from your Paytm wallet balance.
- Activation of FASTag at Certified Banks:
- Visit your nearest bank branch to purchase and activate your FASTag.
- At the bank branch, you can link your FASTag to your bank account.
During the activation process, you may be required to complete FASTag KYC documentation. Additionally, you might need to submit your vehicle’s RC (Registration Certificate) along with your FASTag application to the bank.
Conclusion:
While you can buy, recharge and check the balance of your NHAI FASTag online, you may also opt for an offline process. The government has set up several offline point-of-sales across highways and toll plazas for instant services. So, get the FASTag and avoid paying extra and queuing at the toll gates.