Electronic toll collection through FASTag has become mandatory for most vehicles on India’s national highways. The system allows toll charges to be automatically deducted from a linked prepaid or bank account as vehicles pass through toll plazas.

Managed by the National Highways Authority of India, the technology ensures cashless and faster travel, while users receive SMS alerts for every transaction.

However, many motorists are still unaware of some important rules related to FASTag. Here are five key things every driver should know.

1. Annual FASTag pass has become slightly costlier

The annual FASTag pass offered by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been revised for the 2026–27 financial year.

The cost has increased by ₹75 to ₹3,075. Once purchased, the pass allows up to 200 toll crossings or one year of validity, whichever comes first.

This facility is available only for non-commercial vehicles with a valid FASTag. Drivers can purchase the pass through the Rajmarg Yatra app or the official NHAI website, and the pass usually activates within two hours.

2. Incorrect FASTag installation can lead to double toll

If the FASTag sticker is not properly installed on the vehicle’s windscreen, toll plaza scanners may fail to detect it.

In such cases, authorities may charge double the toll fee. This rule is intended to discourage drivers from deliberately avoiding the FASTag system and causing delays at toll plazas.

3. Half toll is charged during highway construction

Travelers get some relief when highways are under repair, widening, or construction.

If a road is being upgraded—for example, from two lanes to four or six lanes—only 50 percent of the original toll is charged until the construction work is completed.

For instance, if the normal toll fee is ₹50, motorists will pay ₹25 during the construction period.

4. UPI payment if FASTag is unavailable

If a vehicle reaches a toll plaza without a working FASTag, the usual rule is to charge double the toll amount for cash payments.

However, if the driver chooses to pay using UPI, the toll charged may be 1.25 times the normal rate, depending on the vehicle category.

This rule encourages digital payments and reduces congestion at toll booths.

5. Helpline and travel assistance available

Motorists facing issues with FASTag can call the national highway helpline number 1033 for assistance.

Drivers can also use the Rajmarg Yatra app, which acts as a digital travel companion. The app provides information about:

• Nearby petrol pumps

• Hospitals

• EV charging stations

• Toll plazas

• Live weather updates on highways