How to activate and use new FASTag annual toll pass for private cars and save up to Rs 7,000

New Delhi: The Indian government has introduced a new FASTag-based annual toll pass for private vehicles, unveiled on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day. Priced at Rs 3,000, this pass is designed for non-commercial cars, jeeps, and vans, allowing frequent travellers to save on toll charges.

What is the validity and trip limit?

The pass is valid for one year from the date of activation or up to 200 toll trips, whichever comes first. Once either limit is reached, the FASTag will automatically switch back to the regular pay-per-trip mode. For point-based toll plazas, each one-way crossing counts as a trip, and a return counts as two. In closed or ticketed systems, a complete entry-to-exit journey counts as one trip.

Who can use it?

Only private non-commercial vehicles are eligible for this pass. This includes cars, jeeps, and vans used for personal purposes. Commercial vehicles are not allowed. The pass is valid only on national highways and expressways managed by the NHAI and MoRTH. It will not apply to state highways unless those toll plazas are integrated with the central FASTag system.

How to activate and purchase your FASTag-based annual toll pass?

To activate the pass, a vehicle must have an active FASTag linked to its complete registration number and properly affixed to the windscreen. FASTags registered only with a chassis number common in new vehicles are not eligible unless updated with the full vehicle number. Additionally, vehicles that are blacklisted in the FASTag system cannot avail of the pass.

The annual pass can be purchased through the Rajmarg Yatra mobile app, the official NHAI or MoRTH websites, or via authorised FASTag issuer portals. Payment can be made through UPI, debit/credit card, or net banking. Notably, FASTag wallet balances cannot be used for this transaction. After payment, the pass is usually activated within two hours, with confirmation sent via SMS.

How much can you save?

The average toll charge for a car or similar passenger vehicle is around Rs 50 per trip. Over the course of 200 trips, a vehicle owner would normally spend about Rs 10,000. With the annual pass, the cost is capped at Rs 3,000, resulting in potential savings of up to Rs 7,000 for frequent highway travellers.

With IANS inputs