It will soon become much harder to complete important vehicle-related work without clearing toll dues.
The central government has introduced a major change in road rules, making it clear that pending toll payments can block key services linked to your vehicle.
Under the amended Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 2026, any vehicle with unpaid toll plaza dues will not be eligible for transfer, fitness certification, or permit approval.
This move is expected to directly impact millions of vehicle owners across the country.
Why the Government Changed the Road Rules
The government is preparing to roll out a barrier-free tolling system nationwide.
This new system, called Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) tolling, will allow vehicles to pass through toll points without stopping.
Tolls will be automatically deducted using FASTag, ANPR cameras, and artificial intelligence.
However, authorities have noticed that in many cases, toll charges are recorded but not paid.
This leads to revenue losses and weakens the system.
new rules aim to close this gap by making toll payment mandatory for all vehicle-related approvals.
Toll Dues Can Now Stop Important Vehicle Work
If a vehicle has outstanding toll dues, the owner will no longer receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
an NOC, the vehicle cannot be transferred to another person.
Pending toll dues will also block:
- Transfer of vehicle ownership
- Registration in another state or district
- Renewal of fitness certificates
- Issue or extension of commercial vehicle permits
The amended rules also introduce a clear definition of “unpaid user fees.”
If a vehicle’s movement on a national highway is recorded electronically and the toll is not paid, the amount will be treated as outstanding.
exemptions will be allowed in such cases.
Changes Made to Form 28
Form 28, which is required for vehicle transfer, has also been updated.
Vehicle owners must now clearly declare whether there are any pending toll dues.
If dues exist, complete details must be provided.
To encourage digital processes, the government will make the relevant parts of Form 28 available through an online portal, reducing paperwork but increasing accountability.
FASTag Suspension and Legal Action Possible
Unpaid toll dues will trigger an electronic notice to the vehicle owner.
If the payment is still not made after receiving the notice, the FASTag may be suspended.
In addition to FASTag suspension, authorities may also impose other fines or take legal action related to the vehicle.
What Will Change in 2026
Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has confirmed that barrier-free tolling will be a key focus in 2026.
Once fully implemented, toll collection costs are expected to fall from around 15 percent to nearly 3 percent.
This shift is also expected to reduce traffic congestion at toll plazas and make highway travel faster and more comfortable for commuters.
Important Advice for Vehicle Owners
Vehicle owners are advised to maintain sufficient balance in their FASTag accounts and take all e-notices seriously.
Before selling a vehicle, transferring ownership, or renewing fitness certificates, checking toll payment status will be essential.
Clearing toll dues on time can prevent delays, penalties, and unexpected roadblocks in completing important vehicle-related work.
