FASTag – a product introduced by The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has changed the way one could pay for toll while travelling on Indian highways. The RFID-enabled FASTag can be linked to a prepaid account for automatic payment at toll booths. A monthly pass bought with unlimited passage at selected toll plazas make the life of frequent FASTag recharges easier and save time. A guide to all the benefits, buying details and essential insights about getting an NHAI FASTag monthly pass.
Understanding FASTag and Its Benefits
What is FASTag?
FASTag is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology enabled system that allows for toll collection electronically, making the entire process cashless. The tag is stuck on the windshield of a vehicle and it automatically pays cash from prepaid account as soon as vehicle passes through toll plaza. Further than that, this system helps lower the waiting times of people in lanes and even help traffic from any interstate to move more freely.
Benefits of Using FASTag
Non-Stop Movement: FASTag enables near non-stop movement at electronic toll plazas saving fuel and time.
No cash or change needed to hand over for tickets This is an entirely electronic and recorded transactions.
Interoperable: FASTag can be used at all toll plazas across the country i.e., all Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) enabled/ operating Tolls.
Online Recharge: FASTag can be recharged online through different channels like the NHAI site, versatile banking and digital wallets including Paytm.
With the Monthly Pass Option: For those who frequent highways, now users of FASTag can gain unlimited passage through selected toll plazas as and when needed in a month. Thus saving time & your money.
How to Obtain an NHAI FASTag Monthly Pass
Acquiring a FASTag monthly pass is straightforward and can be done through multiple channels, including banks, the NHAI portal, and digital wallets. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Visit the NHAI Portal
The first step to obtaining a FASTag monthly pass is to visit the NHAI official website. Here, you will find a dedicated section for FASTag and the monthly pass option.
2. Select the Toll Plaza
Navigate to the “FASTag Monthly Pass” link on the website. You will need to select the toll plaza for which you want the pass. This selection ensures that the pass is valid at the specific toll plaza you frequently use.
3. Enter Vehicle Details
You will be required to enter details such as your vehicle registration number and the FASTag ID. This information is crucial for validating your vehicle and linking it to the monthly pass.
4. Choose the Pass Scheme
Different toll plazas may offer various pass schemes. Select the one that suits your travel frequency and budget. The schemes usually vary in terms of validity period and the specific toll plazas covered.
5. Make Payment
Once you have selected the desired pass scheme, proceed to the payment gateway. The NHAI portal supports multiple payment options including credit/debit cards, net banking, and digital wallets.
6. Confirmation and Receipt
After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation receipt. It’s advisable to print or save this receipt for future reference. The FASTag monthly pass will be activated and linked to your vehicle.
Alternative Methods to Purchase FASTag Monthly Pass
1. Banks
Several banks in India offer FASTag services. You can visit any of the participating banks, such as ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, SBI, and others, to apply for a FASTag and the monthly pass. The process involves filling out an application form, submitting necessary documents, and making the payment. The FASTag will be delivered to your registered address.
2. Digital Wallets
Platforms like Paytm also provide an easy way to purchase and recharge FASTag. To buy a monthly pass through Paytm:
- Open the Paytm app and search for FASTag.
- Enter vehicle details and choose the delivery address.
- Select the pass scheme and make the payment.
3. Toll Plazas (Point of Sale – POS)
You can also obtain a FASTag directly at various toll plazas. POS terminals are available where you can apply for the tag and monthly pass. Ensure you carry necessary documents such as the vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC), address proof, and a passport-size photograph.
Required Documents for FASTag Application
To apply for a FASTag, you will need the following documents:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC): Proof of ownership of the vehicle.
- Address Proof: Any government-issued document such as a driving license, Aadhaar card, or passport.
- Passport-size Photograph: A recent photograph of the vehicle owner.
- KYC Documents: Some banks may require Know Your Customer (KYC) documents like a PAN card.
How to Recharge FASTag
Recharging your FASTag is simple and can be done through various methods:
- NHAI Portal: Login to the NHAI website and recharge your FASTag account.
- Mobile Banking: Use your bank’s mobile banking app to recharge.
- Digital Wallets: Platforms like Paytm, Google Pay, and others offer easy recharge options.
Steps to Recharge FASTag on Paytm:
- Open the Paytm app and search for FASTag.
- Select the recharge option.
- Enter the recharge amount and proceed with the payment.
FAQs about FASTag Monthly Pass
Q1: What is the validity period of a FASTag monthly pass?
A: The monthly pass is typically valid for one calendar month. However, the exact validity may vary depending on the pass scheme selected.
Q2: Can I use the monthly pass on all toll plazas?
A: The monthly pass is valid only at the toll plaza(s) selected during the purchase. It is not universally applicable across all toll plazas.
Q3: How much does a FASTag monthly pass cost?
A: The cost of the monthly pass varies based on the toll plaza and the selected pass scheme. Details can be found on the NHAI website or the issuing bank’s portal.
Q4: Can I transfer my FASTag to another vehicle?
A: No, the FASTag is vehicle-specific and cannot be transferred to another vehicle. If you change vehicles, you will need to apply for a new FASTag.
Q5: What happens if my FASTag balance is low?
A: If the FASTag balance is low, you will need to recharge it to continue using it for toll payments. Insufficient balance may result in penalties or denial of access through the toll plaza.
Also Read: How to Get FASTag Immediately : A Comprehensive Guide
Conclusion
The NHAI FASTag monthly pass is an invaluable tool for frequent highway travelers, offering the convenience of cashless transactions and seamless passage through toll plazas. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily obtain and manage your FASTag monthly pass, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience on India’s highways. Whether through the NHAI portal, participating banks, or digital wallets, the process is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, making it easier than ever to stay on the move.