How to get FASTag for car; all you need to know

If you're not familiar with FASTag and its operations, now is the perfect time to learn. According to recent government directives, starting February 16, 2021, FASTag will be mandatory for all vehicles in India. Without it, you will have to pay double the toll amount. Here's an in-depth guide on FASTag and its importance.

FASTag is a government-initiated program designed as a prepaid instrument for vehicles on national highways. Issued by 37 major banks, FASTag uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to facilitate toll payments directly from savings or prepaid accounts. The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) operates this technology through its subsidiary, Indian Highway Management Company Limited (IHMCL).

FASTag was first introduced in 2014 between Ahmedabad and Mumbai. Since December 2017, it has been mandatory for all new vehicles sold in India to have a FASTag. It now accounts for over 90% of the total toll collection on national highways, and from January 2021, FASTag use at toll booths became mandatory for all vehicles.

A study by the Transport Corporation of India (TCI) and IIM Kolkata revealed that India loses approximately USD 6.6 billion annually due to transportation delays. To address this issue, the government introduced Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) to enhance the efficiency of the National Highways Grid. The National Highways Program announced a comprehensive restructuring to improve the functionality of the National Highways Grid.

The toll plaza records information from the FASTag as the vehicle passes, eliminating the need for you to stop to make a toll payment

While one of the primary aims of FASTag technology is to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent congestion at toll plazas, there are several other benefits:

1. Time-Saving: Regular highway commuters no longer need to search for change at toll plazas.
2. Contactless Payment: Prioritises hygiene and safety through contactless transactions.
3. Efficient Transactions: Reduces effort and errors in human transactions, making payments more effective and efficient.
4. Environmental Impact: Smooth movement on highways reduces vehicular emissions and carbon footprint by preventing idling at toll booths.
5. Reduced Stress: Eliminates long queues, reducing anxiety among drivers as vehicles move seamlessly.

The government plans to integrate FASTag as a multi-utility payment tool outside of highways, such as in parking lots. Since April 2020, FASTag has been mandatory for acquiring third-party insurance, essential for all cars. Entering a FASTag lane without a FASTag or with a non-functional FASTag (due to RFID impairment or insufficient balance) will result in paying double the toll amount. Thus, having a FASTag ensures convenience and safety.

To smoothly pass through toll booths, follow these steps to get your FASTag:

1. Log On: Visit the HDFC Bank FASTag portal.
2. Fill Details: Complete the required details.
3. Make Payment: Proceed with the payment.
4. Delivery: Receive the FASTag card at your doorstep.
   

FASTag is valid for a minimum of five years, eliminating the need for annual renewals. You will also receive SMS notifications about toll deductions and your FASTag account balance. Additionally, HDFC Bank offers an online FASTag reloadable feature for seamless recharge or top-ups at nominal costs.