FASTag Users Alert! New Payment and Blacklisting Rules Announced

New Delhi, 17th February 2025: The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced new rules for FASTag and toll tax payments, set to take effect from February 17, 2025. The objective of these changes is to streamline toll collection and improve traffic movement at toll plazas. Drivers are advised to be aware of the updated regulations to avoid penalties or double toll charges.

FASTag is an electronic sticker equipped with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip, which is affixed to a vehicle’s windshield. It is linked to the user’s bank account or FASTag wallet, enabling toll payments without stopping at toll booths, thereby saving time and fuel.

Key Changes in FASTag Rules

NPCI issued a circular on January 28, 2025, outlining new rules for FASTag transactions:

• If a FASTag is blacklisted for one hour before being scanned or 10 minutes after scanning, the transaction will be declined.
• If the FASTag balance is low or it has been blocked for any reason, toll payment will be rejected.
• Failure to comply with these new guidelines will result in double toll charges as a penalty.

Impact on FASTag Users

• If a blacklisted FASTag is recharged at the toll plaza, it will not be accepted immediately. Even if users top up their account on the spot, payment will not be processed.
• Drivers should recharge their FASTag account at least 60 minutes before reaching a toll plaza or within 10 minutes after it is scanned to avoid double toll charges.
• Recharging at the toll booth queue will not help; proactive account management is necessary.

When Can a FASTag Be Blacklisted?

FASTag can be blacklisted or blocked due to:

• Low balance in the linked account.
• KYC (Know Your Customer) details not being updated.
• Technical issues from the issuing bank or NPCI.

How to Avoid FASTag Penalties?

To prevent penalties or toll payment failures, users should:

• Maintain a sufficient balance in their FASTag account before long journeys.
• Ensure KYC details are updated with the issuing bank.
• Regularly check the FASTag balance using the MyFASTag app or bank notifications.

Minimum Balance Requirements

The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has removed the minimum balance requirement for FASTag wallets. However, to avoid inconvenience, it is recommended to maintain at least ₹100 in the account.

What Happens If FASTag Is Blacklisted at a Toll Plaza?

• FASTag is mandatory for all vehicles except two-wheelers.
• If a FASTag is blacklisted, the vehicle can still pass through the toll plaza by paying in cash. However, the toll fee will be double the standard rate.

How to Reactivate a Blacklisted FASTag?

To restore a blacklisted FASTag, users should:

1. Identify the reason for blacklisting (low balance, KYC issues, etc.).
2. If blacklisted due to low balance, recharge the account immediately.
3. If KYC is incomplete, update details through the issuing bank.
4. Use the MyFASTag app to check the balance and status.
5. Contact NHAI’s helpline (1033) or the bank for assistance in resolving any issues.

With these new rules, drivers must be proactive in managing their FASTag accounts to avoid delays and penalties at toll plazas. Ensuring sufficient balance and updating KYC details are key steps to smooth travel. As the system evolves, these regulations aim to make India’s toll collection process more efficient and hassle-free.