New FASTag annual pass comes into effect on August 15: FAQs answered

The FASTag Annual Pass will be officially available for private car owners starting August 15. Under consideration for some time, it's aimed at benefiting frequent users of national highways and expressways. If you are planning to get one, here are answers to 7 key questions about the yearly FASTag pass.

1. What is the price of the FASTag Annual Pass?

The FASTag Annual Pass costs Rs 3,000 and is valid for 200 trips/one year from the date of activation, whichever comes first. That works out to only Rs 15 per toll crossing. For reference, most toll plazas in India charge at least Rs 70, with some charging north of Rs 200.

2. Where can I buy a FASTag Annual Pass?

Private vehicle owners can buy/renew the pass from the National Highways Authority of India or NHAI website, as well as via the Rajmargyatra app on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Note that it'll be activated after verifying the eligibility of the vehicle and the associated FASTag.

3. What counts as a single trip under the Annual Pass?

When travelling on point-based tolls, each crossing counts as a single journey, and a round trip, naturally, will be calculated as two. Closed tolling fee plazas will consider a pair of entry and exit as one outing.

4. If I have a FASTag, do I need a new one for the Annual Pass?

A new FASTag is not required as the yearly pass can be activated on your existing tag. One should also adhere to the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), such as properly affixing the FASTag on the vehicle's windshield, linking it to a valid Vehicle Registration Number or VRN, etc.

5. Can I transfer my Annual Pass to another vehicle?

No, a FASTag is non-transferable and is only for the vehicle on which the tag is affixed and registered. Using it on any non-registered vehicle will lead to deactivation.

6. Which roads are excluded from the FASTag Annual Pass?

As per the NHAI, the FASTag Annual Pass is valid only on national highways and expressways. On state highways and expressways, managed by respective governments or local bodies, regular fares will be applicable.

7. Is the FASTag Annual Pass mandatory?

The Annual Pass is optional, so if you already have a FASTag, you can continue using it as usual and pay toll charges at the regular rates whenever you travel.

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