Driving on Indian highways is a breeze, thanks to a well-developed network that connects major cities and towns. But frequent toll plazas can disrupt the flow of traffic, leading to delays and frustration.
FASTag, an electronic toll collection system, aims to streamline this process by allowing seamless toll payments. This beginner’s guide unpacks everything you need to know about FASTag, making your highway journeys smoother than ever.
What is FASTag
FASTag is a reloadable RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag affixed to your vehicle’s windshield. When you drive through a toll plaza equipped with FASTag scanners, the scanner automatically detects the tag and deducts the toll amount from your linked prepaid account. This eliminates the need to stop at toll booths, saving you valuable time and fuel.
Benefits of using FASTag
- Convenience: FASTag offers a hassle-free way to pay tolls. No more scrambling for cash or waiting in long queues.
- Time-saving: Drive through toll plazas without stopping, significantly reducing travel time, especially during peak hours.
- Fuel efficiency: Eliminates the stop-and-go routine at toll booths, leading to better fuel efficiency.
- Discounts: Several FASTag issuers offer discounts on toll payments, providing additional savings.
- Environmentally friendly: Reduces traffic congestion and emissions caused by idling vehicles at toll plazas.
How to get a FASTag
Acquiring a FASTag is a straightforward process. You can apply for it through:
- Banks: Many banks in India offer FASTags. For application details, visit your bank branch or its official website.
- FASTag mobile app: Several FASTag issuers have dedicated mobile applications where you can apply for a FASTag. A FASTag app allows you to recharge your account, track transactions, and manage your FASTag easily. Bajaj Finserv also provides a user-friendly FASTag mobile app.
- Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals: FASTags are also available at designated POS terminals located at highway toll plazas and select retail outlets.
Documents required for FASTag application
The documents required for a FASTag application may vary slightly depending on the issuer. However, they typically include:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) photocopy
- Passport-sized photograph of the vehicle owner
- KYC (Know Your Customer) documents like PAN card/Aadhaar card
How to recharge your FASTag account
Maintaining a sufficient balance in your FASTag account is crucial. You can recharge your FASTag account using various methods:
- Online banking: Most banks allow FASTag account recharge through their internet banking platforms.
- Mobile wallets: Popular mobile wallets like Paytm, PhonePe, Bajaj Pay, and Google Pay offer FASTag recharge options.
- FASTag mobile app: You can recharge your FASTag directly through the mobile app of your FASTag issuer. Popular issuers like Bajaj Finserv, PayTM, and others offer this convenient option.
- Net banking: If your bank offers FASTag services, you can recharge your account through net banking.
- Debit/credit cards: Some FASTag issuers allow online recharge using debit or credit cards.
- Toll booths: You can top up your FASTag account with cash at select toll plazas. This method might not be universally available, so it is advisable to check beforehand.
FASTag issuers in India
Several banks and institutions issue FASTags in India. Some of the prominent FASTag issuers include:
- ICICI Bank FASTag
- HDFC Bank FASTag
- Axis Bank FASTag
- Paytm FASTag
- Airtel FASTag
- Bajaj Finserv FASTag
Getting a FASTag on the Bajaj Finserv platform
The Bajaj Finserv platform offers a streamlined process for acquiring a FASTag. Here is how:
- Visit the Bajaj Finserv website or download their mobile app.
- Look for the FASTag purchase option.
- Enter your vehicle’s registration details and upload the necessary KYC documents.
- Make the payment for the FASTag, which typically includes a one-time issuance fee, a refundable security deposit, and the minimum required balance.
- Your FASTag will be dispatched to your registered address. Ensure you affix it correctly to your vehicle’s windshield as per the instructions.
Recharging your FASTag on Bajaj Finserv platform
Bajaj Finserv offers multiple convenient ways to recharge your FASTag account:
- Bajaj Finserv website: Visit the Bajaj Finserv website and navigate to the FASTag recharge section. Enter your vehicle number and choose your preferred payment mode (debit card, credit card, net banking, etc.) to complete the recharge.
- Bajaj Finserv mobile app: Open the Bajaj Finserv mobile app and log in with your credentials. Locate the FASTag section and enter your vehicle number. Select the recharge amount and choose your preferred payment method to complete the process. This method offers quick and easy on-the-go recharge from anywhere.
Important points to remember
- Ensure your FASTag is affixed correctly to your vehicle’s windshield for proper RFID scanning.
- Maintain sufficient balance in your FASTag account to avoid toll payment failures.
- Link your FASTag account to a valid source of funds for automatic recharges when the balance dips below a certain threshold (if offered by your issuer).
- In case of a vehicle change, inform your FASTag issuer to update the linked vehicle registration details.
FASTag – A boon for Indian commuters
FASTag is revolutionizing the way we pay tolls in India. By offering a convenient, time-saving, and cost-effective solution, FASTag is making highway travel a more pleasant experience for millions of commuters.
So, embrace the FASTag advantage and enjoy a smoother ride on Indian highways.
