Buy FASTag
FASTag is a device introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) under the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) program to support the need for digital payments at toll plazas nationwide. The FASTag uses Radio Frequency Identification technology to conduct seamless payments using FASTag-specific scanners. A FASTag can be easily fixed to a vehicle’s windscreen for use. AIS Windshields Experts offer FASTag-related services to ensure convenient access to this efficient toll payment system.
The provided tag is linked to a prepaid account from which all toll charges are deducted automatically upon scanning. As the vehicle approaches a toll plaza, the present sensors automatically detect the RFID tag and deduct the appropriate amount from the prepaid account linked to the FASTag.
In case the sensors at toll plazas do not function due to technical difficulties or breakdowns, the toll authorities are always equipped with a portable scanner that detects the RFID tag similarly and deducts the required amount from the linked account.
Benefits of FASTag
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1. Cashless Convenience
One of the primary advantages of FASTag is cashless convenience. It eliminates the need to carry cash or stop at toll booths to make payments.
This feature is particularly beneficial in reducing traffic congestion and long queues, which allows for more efficient traffic management during peak hours.
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2. Easy Purchase and Long-term Validity
FASTag buy options are easily available online through apps like MyFASTag, a bank, or a toll plaza near you, which can be found with a quick web search by typing ‘FASTag near me’.
Once obtained, a FASTag remains valid for five years and offers long-term convenience without the need for frequent replacements. Moreover, frequent travellers can convert their monthly travel passes into a FASTag pass online for convenience as well.
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3. Reduced Traffic Congestion
FASTags enable faster movement through toll booths, significantly cutting down the waiting time for each toll pass. This contributes to lesser traffic build-up and smoother journeys, especially during peak hours.
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4. Instant Updates and Expense Monitoring
Another notable benefit of the FASTag device is the instant update feature. This feature offers users immediate notifications of every FASTag transaction, allowing them to monitor their toll expenses effortlessly.
All transactions are accessible on the FASTag app or platforms like Paytm, which helps users keep track of their spending and know when to recharge their FASTag account.
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5. Adherence to Government Mandate
In February 2021, the NHAI made FASTags compulsory to reduce traffic congestion at toll plazas across the country.
Although cash payment options are available at some toll plazas, some may levy a fine in the absence of a FASTag, especially if a vehicle is driven into a FASTag toll booth.
FAQs
A NETC FASTag is a device introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India under the National Electronic Toll Collection program. It is enabled with Radio Frequency Identification technology to easily automate digitised toll payments at toll booths and toll plazas across the country.
This was introduced to reduce waiting time at toll booths and allow seamless traffic movement through toll stops. With a FASTag, the transaction process is significantly simplified.
FASTags have a long-term validity of 5 years from the date of issuance. During this period, the tag can be used for unlimited transactions at toll plazas across India. Once the FASTag is linked to an active prepaid account with sufficient balance, users can continue to recharge and use their FASTag without needing to replace it.
After five years, a new FASTag must be purchased to continue enjoying the benefits of automatic toll payments.
You can activate your FASTag both online and offline. Simply follow the steps below for a convenient online process:
- Upon receiving your NETC FASTag, identify the bank logo printed on the tag.
- Contact the bank's customer care centre and acquire the customer ID issued against your FASTag.
- Download the bank app or use the online website for your FASTag registration with the given customer ID.
- Once done, check your balance and recharge it if required.
If the online method does not work for you, you can simply visit the nearest bank branch for further assistance.
After you buy a FASTag, to check the status of your FASTag transactions, simply follow the steps below:
- Visit the NETC portal for a status check.
- Depending on your preference, type in your Vehicle registration number or NETC FASTag ID.
- Once done, complete the captcha and click on the ‘Check status’ option.
- You should be redirected to a page with your status details.
The deposit in your connected prepaid account typically remains valid throughout the validity of your FASTag. If your FASTag happens to be discontinued or cancelled due to some reason, you always have the option to apply for a refund of the balance on your account.
Banks often charge users a security deposit to ensure a safety net in case they default on payments. This is a form of collateral that allows them to adjust the dues without any issues. This deposit always remains in the FASTag account and is available for refund if the FASTag is returned or cancelled. It is important to note that this security deposit is separate from the prepaid balance that is used for toll payments.
The cost of FASTag varies depending on where it is purchased from as well as the type of vehicle it is being issued for. There is also a one-time activation fee that is required once you buy FASTags for vehicles. Online purchases of FASTags are known to be cheaper than in-person purchases at toll plazas.
The security deposits and required minimum balance amounts in the connected prepaid accounts also vary depending on the vehicle for which the FASTag is being issued. Here is a quick overview of all the details:
Class | Vehicles | Minimum Balance | Security Deposit |
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Class 4 | Car, Jeep, Van, Tata Ace, and similar mini light commercial vehicle | - | ₹100 |
Class 5 | Light commercial vehicle 2-axle | ₹200 | ₹300 |
Class 6 | Bus 3-axle, Truck 3-axle | ₹500 | ₹400 |
Class 7 | Bus 2-axle, Minibus, Truck 2-axle | ₹500 | ₹400 |
Class 12 | Tractor, Tractor with trailer, Truck 4, 5 & 6-axle | ₹500 | ₹500 |
Class 15 | Truck 7-axle & above | ₹500 | ₹500 |
Class 16 | Earthmoving, Heavy construction machinery | ₹500 | ₹500 |