In a major move to simplify and enhance highway travel, the FASTag system is introducing an annual pass starting August 15. This new initiative offers frequent commuters the option of unlimited travel for a flat fee of ₹3,000 per year, marking a significant upgrade to the country’s highway commute system.
The annual pass, which is a boon for frequent highway and expressway commuters in India, provides up to 200 toll crossings or one year of validity, whichever comes first. This prepaid model eliminates the need for repeated recharges, ensuring seamless access to national highways and expressways without the hassle of constantly checking and topping up the balance.
For those who don’t travel long distances regularly, the scheme also includes a flexible, distance-based pricing option. This model allows users to pay a fixed ₹50 for every 100 kilometers, replacing the current variable toll rates and ensuring affordability for occasional travel.
How to Purchase the FASTag Annual Pass
The process to purchase the new pass is designed to be simple and convenient. Users can follow these steps:
- Access the Official Platform: Download the official Rajmarg Yatra application from the Google Play Store or App Store. Alternatively, log in to the official NHAI/MoRTH portal using your registered mobile number or your vehicle’s registration number and FASTag ID.
- Verify Eligibility: The system will automatically perform a backend check to ensure that your FASTag is active, properly affixed to your vehicle, and not blacklisted. It will also verify that the FASTag is linked to the correct vehicle registration number.
- Make Payment: Once your eligibility is confirmed, you will be presented with a list of FASTag recharge plans. Select the annual pass option for ₹3,000. You will then be redirected to a payment gateway with options like UPI, debit/credit cards, or net banking. It is important to note that the annual pass fee cannot be paid using your existing FASTag wallet balance.
- Linking of Pass: Upon successful payment, the annual pass will be linked to your existing FASTag account and vehicle registration.
- Receive Confirmation: You will receive an SMS confirmation notifying you that your FASTag annual pass will be activated on August 15.
Important Things to Remember About the New Pass
Before purchasing, users should be aware of a few key conditions outlined by the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL):
- Vehicle Eligibility: The annual pass is strictly for private, non-commercial vehicles such as cars, jeeps, and vans. Using it on any commercial vehicle will result in immediate deactivation without notice.
- Coverage: The pass is valid on all national highways and national expressways. However, on state highways and local body-managed toll plazas, the FASTag will function as a regular FASTag, and applicable user fees will apply.
- Registration: The annual pass cannot be issued on FASTags registered with only a chassis number. The Vehicle Registration Number must be updated for activation.
- Optional: The annual pass is not mandatory. Users can choose to continue using their FASTag with the regular pay-per-use model.
- Payment Method: The ₹3,000 fee must be paid through the payment options available on the Rajmarg Yatra App or the NHAI/MoRTH portal. Existing wallet balance can still be used for other tolls, like on state highways, and for parking.