What are the new FASTag rules? Stay updated and avoid penalties

India’s highways are evolving, as are the rules governing toll payments. FASTag, the country’s electronic toll collection system, is central to this transformation, offering a faster and more efficient way to pay tolls. Staying compliant with the new FASTag rules is not just a legal requirement but a way to ensure smoother and faster travel experiences.

Understanding the latest FASTag guidelines is crucial to avoiding penalties and enjoying seamless toll payments. With the updated regulations, including changes in customer onboarding and vehicle verification, the new FASTag rules are designed to enhance efficiency and security for road users.

Key updates in the FASTag rules
 

The new FASTag rules introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) have streamlined and secured toll payment processes, ensuring a hassle-free experience for road users. These updates aim to enhance transparency, improve compliance, and provide better services for travellers.

1. Mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) for FASTag issuance – Vehicle owners are required to complete a detailed KYC process to obtain a FASTag. This ensures that the tag is linked to verified personal and vehicle details.
   
   
2. Linking vehicle and RC images with FASTag  – The new FASTag guidelines mandate updating these images every three years. This involves updating vehicle information and verifying that the FASTag remains correctly linked to the registered vehicle.
   
   
3. One Vehicle, One FASTag (OVOT) mandate – The new rules for FASTag require each vehicle to have a unique FASTag linked to its registration number. Sharing or reusing a FASTag across multiple vehicles is strictly prohibited.
   
   
4. Mandatory documentation – To comply with the new FASTag rules, vehicle owners must provide –
   1. A clear image of the vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
   2. The following vehicle images need to be captured at the time of issuance:
      - Front image of the vehicle showing the number plate
      - Side-view showing the axles
      - Image of the FASTag affixed on the windscreen
   3. A valid mobile number for seamless communication and verification
       
5. Inactive tags will be closed – Tags without transactions for three months will be automatically closed. Regular usage is necessary to maintain an active status as per the new FASTag rules.
   
   
6. Five-year tag replacement – The issuing authority must replace tags that are five years old as part of regular maintenance.
   
   
7. New vehicle number updates – Newly purchased Vehicle Registration Numbers must be updated within 90 days. If not updated, the system will move the tag to a low balance, and it will close after 120 days from the date of purchase.

Adhering to these new FASTag rules is essential for smooth toll transactions and avoiding penalties. With changes effective from 31st January 2025, staying compliant ensures faster travel and supports the growing digital infrastructure of India’s highways.

Risks of non-compliance with FASTag guidelines
 

Failing to comply with the new FASTag rules can lead to significant inconveniences and financial penalties. Understanding these risks is crucial for every vehicle owner.

1. Double toll charges – Vehicles without a valid or active FASTag are charged double the toll fee when passing through FASTag lanes, increasing travel expenses unnecessarily.
   
   
2. Blacklisted tags – Unregistered or inactive FASTags may be blacklisted, preventing transactions and causing delays. Non-compliance with the Re-KYV process or incorrect documentation can also lead to blacklisting.
   
   
3. Travel delays – Non-compliance often results in manual toll payments, leading to long waits and disrupting the efficiency of the journey.

By adhering to the new FASTag rules, vehicle owners can avoid these risks. Compliance ensures a smoother, more cost-effective travel experience aligned with the digital toll payment system.

Benefits of compliance with the new FASTag rules
 

Complying with the new FASTag rules offers numerous advantages for vehicle owners, ensuring smooth travel and better toll payment experiences. These benefits extend beyond convenience to include financial and environmental gains.

1. Seamless toll payments – FASTag allows automatic toll deduction, eliminating the need for cash transactions and reducing wait times at toll plazas.
   
   
2. Eco-friendly travel – Reduced idling at toll booths lowers fuel consumption and vehicular emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.
   
   
3. Expense tracking – With electronic receipts and transaction history, vehicle owners can easily track and manage toll expenses for better financial control.
   
   
4. Supports digital transactions – By promoting cashless payments, FASTag aligns with India's push toward a digital economy, offering a secure and efficient payment method.
   
   
5. Hassle-free journeys – Compliant FASTags eliminate the risk of penalties or blacklisting, ensuring uninterrupted travel on highways.

Adhering to the new FASTag rules ensures legal compliance and enhances the overall driving experience by saving time, money, and effort.

Why choose the IDFC FIRST Bank FASTag?
 

The IDFC FIRST Bank FASTag is a 3-in-1 solution designed to make toll, fuel, and parking payments effortless for vehicle owners. With easy recharge options, wide acceptance, and excellent customer support, it ensures uninterrupted travel and simplifies everyday transactions. Whether you own a personal vehicle or a corporate one, the IDFC FIRST Bank FASTag is packed with features to enhance your travel experience.

With the IDFC FIRST Bank FASTag, complying with the new FASTag rules becomes effortless. You can also enjoy superior convenience and savings on toll and fuel payments.

Step-by-step guide to FASTag compliance
 

Staying compliant with the new FASTag rules is straightforward with IDFC FIRST Bank and its seamless processes. Whether you’re acquiring a FASTag, recharging it, or completing the Re-KYV process, here’s how you can ensure compliance –

1. Acquiring a FASTag

2. Recharging your FASTag

Here are the easy ways to recharge your IDFC FIRST Bank FASTag –

a. Pay via UPI to netc.vehicle_number@idfcnetc

b. Log in to the FIRSTforward app or portal and recharge using a credit card, debit card, or net banking

c. Send a ‘Hi’ to +91-9555555555 on WhatsApp to recharge instantly

3. Process to update vehicle and RC images

To comply with the new FASTag rules, submit updated KYC documents every three years, including –

a.      Vehicle images consisting of –

• Vehicle front image showing the Vehicle Registration Number
• Vehicle side image showing the axles
• Image of the affixed FASTag on the windscreen

b.      Vehicle RC via Parivahan or DigiLocker

c.       Contact details, such as a valid mobile number

Use the FIRSTforward app, portal, or WhatsApp services to submit documents.

By following these steps, vehicle owners can effortlessly align with the new FASTag rules, ensuring hassle-free toll payments and uninterrupted travel.

Conclusion
 

Staying updated with the new FASTag rules is essential for avoiding penalties and ensuring a hassle-free driving experience. By complying with these guidelines, vehicle owners can enjoy seamless toll payments, reduced travel time, and enhanced convenience on India’s highways.

An IDFC FIRST Bank FASTag offers a comprehensive and user-friendly solution to meet these requirements. Its features, such as easy recharge options, wide acceptance, and excellent customer support, ensure an uninterrupted travel experience. Get your IDFC FIRST Bank FASTag today to stay compliant, save time, and enjoy a stre