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FASTag Annual Pass Launching on August 15: Check Fee, Validity, and All Important Details
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is introducing a game-changing toll payment solution for frequent highway travellers — the FASTag Annual Pass — starting August 15, 2025. This initiative is designed to make highway travel more convenient, cost-effective, and completely cashless.
The move comes as part of the government’s broader push towards 100% digital toll collection, aimed at reducing congestion at toll plazas and ensuring a smoother travel experience.
What is the FASTag Annual Pass?
The FASTag Annual Pass is a one-time payment subscription that allows unlimited toll crossings on designated routes for an entire year. Unlike the traditional FASTag, which requires topping up after balance deductions for every trip, the annual pass offers unlimited usage within its validity without worrying about per-trip charges.
It uses the same RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology already in place for FASTag, which automatically scans your tag when you pass through a toll plaza.
FASTag Annual Pass Fee and Validity
- Annual Fee: Expected to start from ₹10,000, but may vary based on route and toll category.
- Validity Period: 12 months from activation date.
- Coverage: Initially applicable to selected toll plazas and specific national highway stretches, with plans to expand nationwide.
Benefits of the Annual Pass
1. Unlimited Travel on Selected Routes
Perfect for those who travel the same route regularly — for example, office commuters, transport companies, and long-distance taxi services.
Time-Saving Convenience
No need to stop for cash payments or worry about low FASTag balance — annual pass holders can breeze through dedicated FASTag lanes without interruptions.
Cost-Effective for Frequent Users
While ₹10,000 might seem high at first, frequent travellers often spend more on tolls annually. For them, the pass can mean significant savings over time.
Hassle-Free Management
No recharges, no top-ups, no balance checks — just one payment for the whole year.
Who Should Get the FASTag Annual Pass?
- Daily Commuters – Employees traveling between two cities for work.
- Logistics Operators – Trucks, vans, and delivery vehicles using fixed routes.
- Passenger Transport Services – Inter-city cabs and buses.
- Regular Highway Travellers – Families or individuals visiting relatives in nearby towns frequently.
How to Apply for FASTag Annual Pass
- Visit the NHAI FASTag official portal or authorised partner banks.
- Select the “Annual Pass” option under the services menu.
- Fill in vehicle details including registration number, chassis number, and category.
- Upload KYC documents – Aadhaar, RC book, and ID proof.
- Make the one-time payment online or at an authorised agent.
- Activation will be completed within 24–48 hours.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Non-Transferable: Linked to one vehicle; cannot be used for multiple vehicles.
- Route-Specific: Initially valid only for selected stretches; may expand later.
- No Refunds: Mid-term cancellations will not be refunded.
- Vehicle Category Limits: Separate pricing for commercial and private vehicles.
Comparison: FASTag Annual Pass vs Regular FASTag
| Feature | Annual Pass | Regular FASTag |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Mode | One-time yearly | Recharge as needed |
| Validity | 12 months | Until balance runs out |
| Best For | Frequent fixed-route travellers | Occasional users |
| Recharge Hassle | None | Yes |
| Cost Efficiency | High for daily commuters | Varies |
Government’s Push for Digital Tolling
The annual pass is part of NHAI’s plan to make toll collection entirely cashless. With over 95% adoption rate of FASTag in India, the government is now focusing on reducing congestion further by minimising recharge-related delays.