The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) in June announced the launch of a cost-effective and more seamless mobility solution for India’s frequent commuters. It is called FASTag Annual Ticket and runs on the existing FASTag infrastructure. This essentially means that citizens owning non-commercial cars, jeeps and vans can travel seamlessly on national highways and national highways without the hassle of frequent toll deductions. The FASTag annual pass will become effective in India on August 15 to commemorate the country’s 79th Independence Day.
Fastag Annual Pass: What is it?
According to the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL), the FASTag annual pass allows free travel for non-commercial and private vehicles, jeeps and goods vehicles on designated National Highways (NH) and National Highways (NE).
According to MoRTH, toll plazas on expressways, national highways and other similar facilities run by state governments will not be included in the new pass. It will take effect on August 15th.
“This policy addresses long-standing concerns over toll plazas within 60 kilometers and simplifies toll payment through a single, affordable transaction,” Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said in a statement.
The Annual Pass is valid for one year from activation date or up to 200 trips, whichever comes first. As per IHMCL guidelines, each pass through a toll plaza counts as a trip at a point-based toll plaza. At the same time, when the toll plaza is closed, a pair of entry and exit will be counted as one trip.
FASTag Annual Pass: How much does it cost?
The FASTag annual pass is priced at Rs. India is 3,000 in the base year 2025-26. The pass will be activated after verification of the eligibility of the vehicle and its associated FASTag.
Since it is integrated with the existing FASTag infrastructure, commuters who have already purchased a FASTag do not need to purchase a new FASTag to avail the annual pass.
According to the Minister of Road Transport and Highways, the annual cost of crossing a toll plaza averages between Rs. 80 – Rs. 100. However, those who purchase annual passes will be able to save money with the toll reduced to just Rs. 15. In total they can save up to Rs. Annual tolls of NT$7,000.
How to buy FASTag annual pass
IHMCL said that the FASTag annual pass can be activated on the existing FASTag if the required criteria are met. This includes three conditions:
- Properly fastened to the vehicle’s windshield
- Link to a valid vehicle registration number (VRN)
- Not blacklisted
The FASTag annual pass can be purchased through the Rajmargyatra mobile app, which is available on Android and iOS platforms. You can also get this information through the official website of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). How to purchase a FASTag annual pass is as follows:
- Install the Rajmark Yatra app on your mobile device or navigate to the NHAI website
- Log in using your mobile number and enter your vehicle and FASTag details
- Confirm your eligibility by masking mandatory criteria
- Pay Rs. Pay the $3,000 fee through one of the payment gateways provided
According to IHMCL, the FASTag annual pass will be activated upon successful confirmation of payment. Applicants will also receive a text message reminder once vehicle activation is complete. Activation and renewal of FASTag-based passes can also be done through the Rajmarg Yatra app and the official websites of NHAI and MoRTH.
FAQ:
Q: Which vehicles are eligible for FASTag Annual Pass?
As per MoRTH regulations, the FASTag annual pass is valid only for private non-commercial vehicles. This includes cars, jeeps and vans registered in the VAHAN database. Its use on any commercial vehicle will result in immediate suspension without notice.
Q: What does a single trip count under the annual pass?
For points-based toll plazas, each pass through the toll plaza counts as one trip. Also, a round trip (round trip) counts as two trips. On the other hand, a pair of entrances and exits at a closed toll plaza counts as one trip.
Q: Do I need to buy a new FASTag for my annual pass?
No, you do not need to purchase a new FASTag for your annual pass. It can be activated on your existing FASTag provided it is properly affixed to your windscreen, linked to your VRN and is not blacklisted.
Q: Can I transfer my FASTag annual pass to another vehicle?
No, FASTag Annual Pass is not transferable. As per MoRTH guidelines, it is only valid for registered and pasted vehicles. Using it on another vehicle will result in deactivation.
Q: Is FASTag annual pass mandatory?
FASTag annual pass is not compulsory. According to IHMCL, the existing FASTag infrastructure will continue to be used for regular transactions.
