A COMPLETE GUIDE ON HOW TO RECHARGE FASTAG

FASTag has changed the game for how we pay tolls on Indian highways. It made the whole process easier and quicker without the need to exit your vehicle. To ensure your journey is comfortable and seamless, your FASTag account needs to have enough balance.

The following guide will show you how to recharge FASTag online and offline. This will ensure you have zero issues during your next journey anywhere across the country.

Key Takeaways

●      FASTag is a prepaid system that lets you pay tolls electronically using RFID technology.

●      Recharge can be done online (via bank portals, UPI, merchant apps, WhatsApp, or missed calls) and offline (at toll plazas, fuel pumps, and bank branches).

●      Minimum recharge amount can be as low as ₹1, though some portals may require a minimum of ₹100.

●      Each vehicle must have only one active FASTag.

●      The FASTag balance remains valid indefinitely but the physical FASTag itself is valid for 5 years.

●      Credit cards are widely accepted for FASTag recharge.

 

What is FASTag?

FASTag is a device that works on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. It lets you pay tolls automatically as your vehicle passes through toll plazas on national and state highways in India. The tag is fixed on your car’s windshield and enables payments through a linked prepaid account.

FASTag was introduced to ease congestion at toll plazas. It has been mandatory for all four-wheelers and larger vehicles since early 2021. It was implemented by the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) and is managed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

 

How to Recharge FASTag Online

Need help with how to recharge FASTag? We’ll show you the quickest and safest ways available online:

1. Using a Website or a Mobile App

You can recharge and manage your FASTag through your bank’s official app or portal. Here’s what to do:

1. Sign in to your FASTag account from your bank’s website or app.
2. Navigate to the ‘Recharge’ or ‘Top-Up’ section.
3. Enter the amount you want to recharge.
4. Choose how you'd like to pay: via net banking, card, or UPI.
5. Complete the transaction.
6. You’ll receive a confirmation message.

2. Using UPI

For doing a FASTag recharge online, UPI is one of the preferred methods due to its convenience. Here’s how to recharge using UPI:

1. Open your UPI-enabled app.
2. Select ‘Send’ or ‘Pay’ option.
3. Enter the FASTag UPI ID:

○      Format: netc.vehiclenumber@bankupihandle

○      Example: If your vehicle number is MH04BB1234 and your FASTag is linked to ICICI Bank, your UPI ID will be netc.MH04BB1234@icici.

4. Type in the recharge amount.
5. Enter your UPI PIN.
6. You’ll receive an SMS confirmation.

3. Using the FASTag Merchant App

The My FASTag App is available on Android and iOS. You can use it to recharge any bank-issued FASTag or NHAI FASTag. Here’s how:

1. Download and open the My FASTag App.
2. Log in or register your FASTag details.
3. Select ‘Recharge’ or ‘Top-Up’.
4. Opt for a payment mode such as net banking, debit card, credit card, or UPI.
5. Enter the amount and complete the transaction.

NHAI FASTags linked to a bank account can also be set for auto-recharge when the balance falls below a threshold.

4. WhatsApp Chatbot

Some banks and service providers offer FASTag recharge via WhatsApp. Here’s how it works:

1. Save the official FASTag WhatsApp number provided by your bank or issuer.
2. Send a message or follow the options given by the chatbot.
3. Provide your vehicle number and FASTag ID.
4. Select a payment mode and complete the transaction.

5. Missed Call Facility

Although a FASTag recharge might not be possible through a missed call, certain banks like ICICI and HDFC offer the facility to check your balance:

1. Place a missed call to the number given by the bank. This must be done from your registered mobile.
2. An SMS with the FASTag balance will be sent to you.

 

How to Recharge FASTag Offline

For those who prefer or need offline options, FASTag recharge can be done at several physical locations. Here’s how to:

1. Toll Plaza

Most toll plazas have point-of-sale (POS) terminals where you can recharge your FASTag. This will be done through the Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS). Simply approach the counter, provide your vehicle and FASTag details, and make the payment using a card or cash.

2. Fuel Pumps

Many fuel stations across India now offer FASTag recharge services. Choose cash, UPI, or card for payment at the counter, and the amount will reflect in your FASTag wallet.

3. Bank Branches

Visit the nearest branch of the bank that provided your FASTag for a recharge. The staff will help you with it. You can use cash, a card, or other available methods to pay.

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FAQs

1.    What is the minimum recharge amount for FASTag?

For most bank portals, the minimum recharge is typically ₹100. For existing wallets, IHMCL allows the minimum balance to go as low as ₹1. It is always advised to check your bank’s guidelines for specific requirements.

2.    What to do if payment status is not updated even after a successful transaction through BHIM UPI?

Check the transaction status in the ‘Transaction’ section of your UPI app. In case of a failed or pending transaction, tap on ‘Report Issue’ to raise a complaint. Should the problem remain unresolved, get in touch with your bank using the transaction reference number. The amount should be reversed within T+3 days.

3.    Is FASTag recharge mandatory for all vehicles?

Yes, FASTag is mandatory for all class M&N category vehicles (four-wheelers and above, carrying goods or passengers) per amendments to the CMVR 1989. New motor vehicle insurance also requires FASTag since 2021.

4.    Can I link my FASTag with multiple vehicles?

No, the ‘One Vehicle, One FASTag’ rule is strictly enforced. Each vehicle must have a unique, active FASTag. Multiple FASTags for one vehicle or one FASTag for multiple vehicles is not allowed.

5.    Is there any validity period for FASTag recharge?

The balance in your FASTag account does not expire and remains valid until used or until the account is closed. The physical FASTag sticker has a validity of 5 years, depending on the issuer. After expiry, the sticker needs to be replaced.

6.    Can I recharge FASTag using a credit card?

Yes, most credit cards are accepted for FASTag recharge. Simply select ‘Credit Card’ as your payment method during online recharge.