One vehicle, one FASTag enforced: here’s what all users need to know

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been enforcing the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ rule since April 1, as confirmed by a senior official of the Press Trust of India (PTI). This directive prohibits the use of a single FASTag across multiple vehicles or the linking of multiple FASTags to a single vehicle. To enable a smooth transition, NHAI extended the compliance deadline till the end of March, especially for Paytm FASTag users who faced issues.

The reason behind the move

NHAI’s decision to implement the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ policy comes amid concerns over the misuse of FASTags. Reports indicated that vehicles were being fitted with multiple FASTags or FASTags were being issued without complying with the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. In addition, there were cases where FASTags were not properly affixed to the vehicle’s windshield, leading to delays at toll plazas and inconveniencing other users of national highways, according to a Press Information Bureau press release in January 2024.

Clarification on FASTag recharge through banks

The principle of ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ ensures that each vehicle is linked to one active FASTag. If a vehicle has multiple FASTags, all but the most recently purchased will be deactivated. This measure prevents the possession of multiple FASTags for one vehicle. Importantly, vehicle owners have the freedom to recharge their FASTag through any bank or through various payment methods including BBPS, UPI and net banking. This approach introduces a degree of flexibility in managing FASTag accounts.

How to Check FASTag Status

To verify the status of FASTags associated with your vehicle, complete the following steps:

1. Visit the official website at (https://www.npci.org.in/what-we-do/netc-fastag/check-your-netc-fastag-status)(https://www.npci.org .in/what-we-do/netc-fastag/check-your-netc-fastag-status).

2. Enter your vehicle details

3. Select ‘Send’.

4. View the status information for each FASTag associated with your vehicle.

Beware of incomplete FASTag KYC

Should your FASTag KYC be incomplete, notifications will be sent via email, SMS or the bank’s app to inform you of this issue.

To update your KYC:

For NHAI FASTags: Visit (https://fastag.ihmcl.com)(https://fastag.ihmcl.com), log in and update your KYC online.

For bank-issued FASTags: Access (https://www.netc.org.in/request-for-netc-fastag)(https://www.netc.org.in/request-for-netc-fastag), select your issuing bank, and follow the link to update your KYC online.

The lack of notifications suggests that your KYC is complete.

FASTag use in multiple vehicles

A FASTag is uniquely issued to a vehicle based on its registration certificate. Misuse, such as using a tag intended for one vehicle on another vehicle, may result in the tag being blacklisted, preventing further issuance of FASTags for that vehicle.

Non-KYC wallets are valid for 2 years

If you do not upgrade your KYC within two years as a non-KYC wallet holder, you will not be able to add funds to your wallet. However, you can still use the remaining balance for toll payments until the tag shows a low balance or is blocked.

KYC processing time

The processing time for KYC requests is up to seven working days. You can track your KYC status on the customer portal. Approval is dependent on the accuracy and validity of the submitted documents. Any discrepancies or invalid documents will result in rejection, necessitating a resubmission.

First print: April 2, 2024 | 3:19 PM IST