FASTag New Rules August 2024: What You Need to Know

Digitising modern India extends to its requirements for our road infrastructure as well. Over the past few years, a significant enabler was the introduction of FASTag, a medium that has vastly helped modernise toll collection on our highways. Introduced by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) as part of the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) initiative, FASTag was designed to simplify toll payments and reduce congestion at toll plazas, in addition to other benefits as well. As of 1st August 2024, new FASTag rules have come into effect, to enhance the efficiency and functioning of the system. 

In this article, CARS24 will help you explore the latest FASTag updates, their importance, and what users need to know to comply with the new requirements. Have more information on FASTag that can help fellow drivers? Discuss them on the CARS24 auto community, CLUTCH, wherethere are more interesting automotive discussions taking place.
 

What is FASTag and why is it important?

FASTag is an electronic toll collection system that uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to facilitate cashless payments at toll plazas. For more common usage, the name FASTag refers to the RFID sticker, placed on the windshield of your car. When a vehicle equipped with a FASTag sticker passes through a toll booth, the RFID reader detects the tag and deducts the appropriate toll charges. The tag itself is linked to a prepaid account usually associated with a bank or payment app. FASTag is now mandatory for all vehicles.
 

How does it work?

Once the toll amount deduction is confirmed, an automatic signal then helps the opening of the toll barrier. All this happens in a matter of a few seconds thus eliminating the time taken to tender change, collect a toll receipt and the toll booth operator opening the barrier. FASTag makes this process seamless thus reducing waiting times, lowering fuel consumption while stuck in long queues, and minimising congestion at toll plazas.
 

What are the benefits?

The importance of FASTag however, extends beyond its convenience. It plays a crucial role in promoting digital, cashless transactions, ensuring transparency in toll collections, and curbing revenue leakage. Additionally, the data generated from FASTag transactions helps authorities monitor traffic patterns, plan infrastructure improvements, and enhance road safety. FASTag has also contributed to reducing environmental impact by cutting down on vehicle idling time and paper usage, thus lowering carbon emissions.
 

As of 2024, over 90 per cent of toll plazas in India are equipped to handle FASTag payments, making it an essential tool for drivers nationwide. The government’s push towards mandatory FASTag use has also quickened its adoption, making it a prerequisite for vehicles on highways, and reinforcing its significance in the country’s transportation ecosystem.
 

Key changes in FASTag rules for 2024

The new FASTag rules were introduced in August 2024 and bring several changes that aim to improve the efficiency and user experience of the electronic toll collection system. These changes address some of the challenges faced by users and toll operators under the previous regulations. The new guidelines claim to benefit smoother operations so here’s a breakdown of the new FASTag rules.
 

1. Stringent KYC regulations 

The new FASTag rules have brought about changes to the KYC (Know Your Customer) requirements. This is the most significant change in the new rules, aimed to enhance security protocols in order to prevent fraudulent activities. FASTag users are now required to complete their KYC details by 31st October 2024. This is more relevant to FASTags that were issued in the past three to five years and non-compliance will restrict FASTag recharges or blacklist the FASTag post the stipulated date. FASTags older than five years have to be replaced so it becomes even more crucial for users with older cars.
 

2. One vehicle one FASTag

As part of the newly implemented FASTag rules, the “One Vehicle One FASTag” rule restricts a vehicle owner to have only one active FASTag for one vehicle. This means that if there are multiple FASTags linked to a single vehicle, only the latest one shall remain valid while all the others will be deactivated. Acquiring multiple FASTags for a single vehicle is not permitted.
 

3. Automatic blacklisting for insufficient funds

Another critical update in the 2024 FASTag rules is the automatic blacklisting of FASTag accounts with insufficient funds. If a user’s account does not have enough balance to cover the toll charge, the FASTag will be temporarily blacklisted until the required funds are added. This measure is designed to encourage users to maintain adequate balances in their accounts and prevent disruptions at toll plazas.
 

4. Double charge for non-affixed FASTags

The new directives for FASTag in 2024 mandates the physical RFID tag to be stuck to the windshield. This is in order to improve the readability of the FASTag via the overhead sensors. Failing to stick the FASTag on the windshield or presenting it as a non-affixed tag will attract a fine that’s double of the toll charge at the particular toll booth.
 

5. 10-Second rule implementation

The 10-second rule at toll plazas aims to further reduce waiting times. The rule suggests that toll operators must ensure that each vehicle equipped with a functional FASTag clears the toll booth within 10 seconds. If the process takes longer due to a malfunction or delay, the vehicle will be allowed to pass without paying the toll. Moreover, a 100 metres limit to queues has been imposed which restricts queues to a 100 metre mark, designated by a yellow line. If the queue exceeds 100 metres then the toll operators are required to open the barriers in order to ease congestion at the toll plaza.
 

Major differences with previous FASTag rules

The FASTag rules introduced in August 2024 represent a significant shift from the previous regulations. The key differences are focused around stricter KYC (Know Your Customer) and KYV (Know Your Vehicle) rules. Understanding these rules pertaining to KYC updation is crucial for adapting to the new system and maximising the benefits of using FASTag in 2024.
 

1. KYC updation requirements

• Users with a FASTag issued between three to five years are required to update their KYC details.
• Last day for compliance is 31st October 2024, failing which FASTag will be blacklisted.
   

2. Replacement of older FASTag

• FASTag validity is five years, thus an older FASTag will have to be replaced.
• Request for a new FASTag with your service provider.
   

3. Vehicle images are now mandatory

• FASTag users will now have to upload high-quality images of their vehicle.
• Clear pictures of the front and side of the vehicle are required.
   

4. Vehicle details requirements

• Vehicle registration number (VRN) has to be updated.
• Chassis number has to be updated.
   

5. Mandatory verification with Vahan database

• Vehicle registration and chassis number linked to the FASTag has to be verified with Vahan, the government’s database for registered vehicles in India.
   

6. Mandatory linking of mobile number

• FASTag users are required to now link their mobile number.
• This process is to ensure misuse and correct communication with the FASTag user.
   

What do users need to keep in mind?

With the introduction of the new FASTag rules, users must be aware of the changes and a few important aspects of the new rules. This will ensure a smooth transition and continued compliance with the updated regulations for 2024, making your highway journeys all the more seamless. Here are some key considerations for FASTag users.

1. Complete the updated KYC process

If you have not updated your KYC information, you must do so to comply with the new rules or risk the FASTag getting blacklisted, greatly disrupting your movement through toll plazas. The last day to meet the new requirements is 31st October, 2024. Be sure to –

• Link your mobile number.
• Link your Aadhar and PAN details.
• Update vehicle registration and chassis numbers followed by verification on Vahan.
• Upload front and side pictures of your vehicle.
   

2. Maintain sufficient balance

Given the introduction of automatic blacklisting for accounts with insufficient funds, it is essential for you to regularly check and maintain sufficient balance in your FASTag account. This will help ensure uninterrupted travel on the highways.

3. Replace expired FASTag

The validity period for a FASTag is five years, users with older tags approaching expiration should plan for timely replacement to avoid disruptions in toll payments.

4. Be aware of the 10-Second rule

Users should be aware of the 10-second rule and understand that if a toll transaction takes longer than 10 seconds due to a system issue, they are entitled to pass without paying the toll.

5. Stick the FASTag

It is mandatory to stick the FASTag RFID sticker onto the windshield. Failing so will attract double toll charges.

Benefits of the new FASTag rules

The new FASTag rules introduced in August 2024 offer several benefits for both users and the broader transportation system in India. These advantages include –

1. Improved security

The enhanced KYC requirements provide greater security for FASTag users. The implementation of more stringent rules reduces the risk of fraudulent activities and multiple FASTag accounts per vehicle.

2. Reduced wait times at toll plazas

With the implementation of the 10-second rule and mandatory sticking of the FASTag along with deterrents like blacklisting FASTags with insufficient balance, traffic movement through toll plazas should be quicker. These new FASTag rules are expected to significantly reduce wait times at toll plazas benefiting both individual drivers and the overall efficiency of the highway network.

3. Convenience for Users

With all FASTag users requiring to update their KYCs, the next cycle to update will only come after three years while a FASTag is valid up to five years. This will reduce the frequency of tag replacements and with the ability to complete most of the processes online, it makes the electronic toll collection system even more user-friendly.

4. Environmental Benefits

By reducing congestion and vehicle idling time at toll plazas, the new FASTag rules contribute to lower carbon and vehicular emissions. Additionally, by saving on idling time of your vehicle’s engine, you can further benefit from better overall fuel efficiency for your journey. This environmental benefit aligns with India’s broader goals of reducing pollution and promoting sustainable transportation.

Conclusion

The new FASTag rules for 2024 mark a significant step forward in the evolution of India’s toll collection system. With enhanced security measures and reduced wait times, these changes aim to improve the user experience and overall efficiency of the highway network. For drivers, staying informed about these updates is crucial to ensure compliance and a smooth run through any toll plaza. As FASTag continues to play a central role in India’s highway transportation infrastructure, these rules underscore the government’s commitment to creating a more efficient, secure, and user-friendly toll collecting structure for all road users.

FAQs

Q. What is the new rule of FASTag?

The new FASTag rules require an enhanced KYC verification that all users must comply by 31st October 2024. The rule now includes requirements of photographs of the car, updation of VRN and chassis numbers as well as mobile, Aadhar and PAN linking to the user account. It’s also worth noting that only one FASTag is allowed per vehicle.

Q. What is the 10-second rule for FASTag?

The 10-second rule mandates that if a vehicle with a functional FASTag is unable to clear the toll booth within 10 seconds, due to system malfunction or error, the toll operator has to let them pass without paying the toll.

Q. What are the KYC rules for FASTag?

The updated KYC rules require users to upload photographs of the car, update both VRN and chassis numbers as well as mobile, Aadhar and PAN linking to the FASTag account.

Q. What are the new toll plaza rules?

The new toll plaza rules include the 10-second clearance requirement and a 100m queuing limit. If the conditions are not met then vehicles are to be allowed to cross the toll without paying.

Q. Can I use FASTag without a sticker?

No, the FASTag must be affixed to the vehicle’s windshield to function correctly. If this isn’t done, double toll charges will be applicable. FASTag relies on RFID technology to communicate with toll plaza sensors thus its placement on the windshield is crucial.

Q. How to know that the mapping for our FASTag is there or not?

You can check the mapping status of your FASTag by logging into your FASTag account on the issuing bank’s website or the official FASTag portal.

Q. After how long does a FASTag expire?

Under the new rules, a FASTag is valid for 5 years from the date of issue, after which it needs to be replaced.