The Definitive Guide to FASTag for First-Time Users

A first time user of FASTag? It’s natural that you will have a list of questions about what it is, how it works, and how to get started. This definitive guide is designed to walk you through everything you want to know about FASTag and make your transition to cashless toll payments easier.

What is FASTag exactly?

FASTag is an electronic toll collection system in India that uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to automatically deduct toll charges as you pass through toll plazas. This means you no longer have to stop and pay in cash.

Instead, the toll amount is directly debited from your linked prepaid or savings account.

Why should you use FASTag?

Benefits are aplenty when you use FASTag. Some of these include the following:

• Convenience – FASTag eliminates the need to carry cash or wait in long queues at tollbooths, saving your time and effort.
• Travel Made Simple – With FASTag, you can drive through toll plazas without stopping. This eventually leads to faster and more efficient travel experience.
• Discounts and Cashback–Some toll plazas offer discounts for using FASTag. Moreover, various banks often provide cashback offers to users.
• Eco Friendly–It may not seem like a long time but stopping your vehicle and starting it up again does come down to a lot of gas emissions in the long run. Plus, if you combine it with thousands of vehicles passing toll booths regularly and you have got a serious environment problem. By reducing the idling time, FASTag helps lower fuel consumption and emissions.

How to get your FASTag?

Getting your FASTag is a simple process:

1. Choose a Provider: FASTag can be purchased through banks like IDFC First Bank, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank, as well as online marketplaces.
2. Documentation Formalities: You’ll need your vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC), proof of identity (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, etc.), and a passport-sized photograph.
3. Registration: Once you've chosen your provider, you can either visit their website or nearest branch to complete the registration process. You’ll need to fill out a form and submit the necessary documents.
4. Activation: After registering, your FASTag will be activated. Some providers offer immediate activation, whereas others may take a few hours.
5. Linking to an Account: You can link your FASTag to a prepaid account, savings account, or your UPI ID. This allows for automatic deduction of toll charges.

Using your FASTag

Once your FASTag is active, simply affix it to your vehicle’s windshield. As you approach a toll plaza, the RFID reader will scan your FASTag and the toll amount will be deducted from your linked account. You’ll receive an SMS notification for every transaction which helps in keeping track of your toll expenses.

FASTag is a game-changer for toll payments in India, offering a seamless and eco-friendly solution. By following this guide, first-time users can easily get started with FASTag and make their journeys more efficient in the long run.

: Hitch Zone is a cutting-edge financial technology company revolutionizing the way individuals and businesses manage their finances.