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Are you a regular highway commuter using FASTag? If yes, you must stay updated with the latest rules that came into effect in 2025. These rules bring changes to recharges, blacklisting, and refund timelines. Understanding them is essential to avoid fines and ensure hassle-free toll payments.
FASTag, a digital toll collection system, has been a game-changer for Indian highways. But as the system matures, new rules are introduced to improve efficiency and plug loopholes. Let’s explore all you need to know about these latest FASTag rules and how they affect you.
FASTag New Rule
The most significant rule introduced recently involves a stricter policy on blacklisted FASTags. If your FASTag is blacklisted at least 60 minutes before reaching a toll or 10 minutes before scanning, it won’t work. You’ll be charged double the toll if you don’t recharge in time.
Another major rule is the introduction of a 70-minute recharge grace window. This window gives users time to recharge and avoid penalties. However, if the transaction fails due to blacklisting, the penalty won’t be waived unless the recharge was made within this timeframe.
Recharge Window and Penalties
Under the new rules, the 70-minute recharge window is critical. It typically spans 60 minutes before and up to 10 minutes after reaching the toll plaza. If you recharge during this window and still get penalized, you may be eligible to request a refund.
However, missing this window means you’re likely to face a penalty. Toll plazas now reject late or invalid FASTag transactions instantly. So, it’s advisable to recharge your FASTag well in advance to avoid last-minute issues and additional charges at toll booths.
One Vehicle, One FASTag Policy
The new rules strictly enforce a “one FASTag per vehicle” guideline. Any duplicate or multiple FASTags linked to the same vehicle will be deactivated. This measure is aimed at curbing misuse and ensuring proper tracking of toll transactions for each registered vehicle.
If your vehicle has an old or unused FASTag, it must be surrendered or deactivated immediately. Recharging or using more than one FASTag can result in service suspension or blacklisting, potentially affecting your ability to pass through toll plazas without delay.
Annual FASTag Pass Option
Starting August 15, 2025, vehicle owners can opt for an annual FASTag pass. This prepaid option costs ₹3,000 and is valid for up to 200 toll trips or one year, whichever comes first. It is available only for private vehicles, such as cars, jeeps, and vans.
This pass can be activated using your existing FASTag. The benefit lies in cost savings for frequent travelers. It applies only to toll plazas managed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), not state highways or private roads.
KYC and Vehicle Number Rules
Complete KYC is now mandatory for FASTag users. Previously, some users activated FASTags with only chassis numbers. Now, you must update the full Vehicle Registration Number (VRN) within 90 days of issuance to keep your tag active.
Incomplete or outdated KYC can lead to account suspension. To avoid service disruption, make sure all vehicle and identity details are accurate and updated with your FASTag issuing bank or platform. Non-compliance may result in toll rejections or tag blacklisting.
Late Transaction Charges
A new rule addresses late toll transactions. If a toll deduction happens more than 15 minutes after your vehicle has crossed the scanner, you may incur an additional fee. This step aims to reduce delays in processing and discourage backdated or faulty transactions.
This also encourages toll operators and payment platforms to ensure real-time deduction. Users should monitor their SMS or app notifications to confirm timely toll deductions. If delays are noticed, you must report the issue and maintain proof for any future disputes.
Chargeback and Refund Timelines
Refunds for failed or duplicate toll deductions now come with a waiting period. Under the new rules, chargeback requests can be filed only after 15 days. This is to allow for system reconciliation before processing claims.
Earlier, users could raise refund requests immediately, leading to processing errors. With this change, platforms get enough time to audit transactions. Keep a record of the transaction ID, date, and toll plaza name while filing your refund request after the cooling period.
FASTag Placement Guidelines
Another important rule is the proper placement of the FASTag on your vehicle’s windshield. Tags that are not clearly visible or are loosely placed will be blacklisted automatically. FASTag readers need a clear line of sight to process tolls accurately.
Ensure the tag is affixed on the upper-middle section of the windshield from inside. Avoid pasting it elsewhere or carrying it loosely. Improper placement may not only cause toll failures but also delay your journey with manual interventions at the booth.
Queue Management at Toll Plazas
To reduce wait times, FASTag lanes now follow strict queue management rules. If a vehicle spends more than 10 seconds at a scanner due to system delay and not due to the user’s fault, no toll will be charged for that passage.
This rule is meant to improve accountability at toll plazas. Users must, however, ensure their tag is active, visible, and has sufficient balance. If you’re delayed due to your own tag issues, you will still be liable to pay double toll as per penalty rules.