FASTag has been made mandatory across India to make toll payments faster and smoother. However, many drivers face issues where the FASTag does not scan at toll plazas, shows a “Tag Read Error,” or gets damaged.
These problems can waste time and may also lead to double toll charges or the need to pay cash.
If your FASTag is torn, damaged, not working properly, or has been blacklisted, there is no need to worry.
You can easily replace it either online from home or by visiting a nearby bank or toll plaza. Below is everything you need to know about FASTag problems and replacement.
Why Does FASTag Stop Working?
There can be several reasons why a FASTag may malfunction. Sometimes, the FASTag is not placed correctly on the vehicle’s windshield, which makes scanning difficult. Long exposure to sunlight or cleaning the windshield can cause the tag to tear.
In some cases, the FASTag chip gets damaged, or the linked account does not have enough balance. FASTags may also stop working if the KYC is incomplete or if the bank has blacklisted the tag.
How to Know When FASTag Needs Replacement
You should replace your FASTag if it fails to scan repeatedly at toll plazas, looks torn or damaged, or shows an “Inactive” or “Blacklisted” status in the app.
If toll staff ask you to pay manually every time, it is a clear sign that your FASTag needs to be replaced. Continuing to use a faulty FASTag can cause further issues during travel.
Documents Required for FASTag Replacement
Replacing a FASTag requires minimal documents. Usually, you need the vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC), the vehicle owner’s ID proof such as Aadhaar card or driving license, and the mobile number linked to the FASTag.
In some cases, you may also be asked to provide the old FASTag. For online applications, most details are already available in the system.
How to Replace FASTag: Step-by-Step Process
Online Method
If your FASTag was issued by a bank or digital platform like Paytm, PhonePe, or Google Pay, log in to the respective app or website.
Choose the “Manage FASTag” or “Replace FASTag” option, select the reason such as “Damaged” or “Not Working,” confirm your address, and pay a small replacement fee. The new FASTag will be delivered to your home within a few days.
FASTag Replacement Fee and Balance Transfer
The cost of replacing a FASTag usually ranges between ₹100 and ₹200. This amount may include the tag price and a security deposit. The remaining balance from your old FASTag is generally transferred to the new one.
FASTag Can Be Blacklisted Due to Low Balance
If the balance in the linked account is too low, the FASTag may be blacklisted. In such cases, the driver cannot use the cashless toll system and must pay in cash at toll plazas.
To improve toll payments across the country, NPCI introduced the NETC program, which ensures smooth and uniform FASTag operations nationwide.
