Who is the Best FASTag in India? (Top 9 Providers)

If you’ve ever traveled on a highway in India, you know how frustrating it can be to wait in long lines at toll plazas. That’s where Fastags come in. Fastags are electronic toll collection systems that use radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to enable cashless payments at toll plazas. Using a Fastag saves time and avoids the hassle of carrying cash or waiting in line. However, choosing the best Fastag for your vehicle can be confusing with many options. This article will guide you through selecting the best Fastag in India for your vehicle.

What is Fastag?

Fastag is a system that lets you pay tolls automatically using a device that uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. You can buy Fastag from authorized banks or service providers and link it to a prepaid account. The toll amount is deducted from the account as you pass through the plaza. You can recharge Fastag using various payment modes, such as net banking, credit or debit cards, and mobile wallets.

When did FASTag Start to be Implemented?

Fastag was introduced by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) in 2014 as part of the government’s push toward digital payments. The system has been implemented across all national highways in India, and more than 3.5 crores (35 million) of Fastags have been issued as of 2021.

FASTag is Increasingly Important

As per Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, FASTag had been made mandatory since 2017 for registration of new four wheeled Vehicles, and is to be supplied by the vehicle manufacturer or their dealers. It had further been mandated that the renewal of fitness certificate will be done only after the fitment of FASTag for the transport vehicles. 

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Fastag became mandatory for all vehicles in India in February 2021, and failure to have a Fastag can result in a penalty. The government has also announced discounts for Fastag users. They offer a 10% cashback on all toll payments made through Fastag.

Advantages of using Fastag

Using Fastag has several advantages for vehicle owners, including:

• Time-saving: Fastag enables contactless toll payments. It allows vehicles to pass through toll plazas without stopping. This saves time and reduces congestion on highways.
• Cost-effective: Fastag users can avail of discounts on toll charges, ranging from 2.5% to 10%. It depends on the provider and the highway.
• Easy recharge: Fastag can be recharged online using various payment options such as credit/debit cards and mobile wallets. This makes it easy to maintain sufficient balance and avoid penalty charges.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Fastag helps reduce the use of paper and manual transactions. This turn, reduces the carbon footprint of toll operations.
• Improved tracking and transparency: Fastag transactions are recorded electronically. It enables better tracking and monitoring of toll collections. This also reduces the possibility of fraud or errors in toll collections.
• Seamless interstate travel: Fastag is accepted at all toll plazas across India. This enables seamless travel across states and reduces the need for cash payments.

Factors to Consider While Choosing the Best Fastag for Your Vehicle

There are several factors to consider when choosing the best Fastag for your vehicle in India. Here are some important ones:

Fees and Charges

Check the initial cost of the Fastag and the charges for recharging it. Compare fees across different providers. Some providers may offer discounts or cashback to help you save money.

Availability and Ease of Obtaining the Fastag

Look for providers offering easy online or offline application processes and a wide network of distribution points.

Compatibility with Your Vehicle

Check if the Fastag is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. Some Fastags may not work with certain types of vehicles. You must ensure the Fastag is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model. And it can be easily affixed to your vehicle windshield.

Customer Support and Services

Choose a service provider with a wide network of toll plazas across India. This will ensure you can use your Fastag at most toll plazas without issues.

Recharge Options

Look for providers that offer multiple recharge options. Such as online banking, mobile wallets, and credit or debit cards.

Balance Inquiry and Transaction History

Check if the provider offers features to track your balance and transaction history. This is either through an online portal or mobile app to find.

Additional Features

Look for additional features such as SMS and email alerts, transaction history, or loyalty programs. These features can enhance your experience and help you keep track of your toll payments.

RFID Technology

Choose a provider that uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for toll collection. This is because it is faster and more reliable than other methods.

9 Best Fastag in India – Providers

Fastag is a prepaid toll payment system in India that allows seamless cashless transactions at toll plazas. The Fastag program is one of the most important parts of the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) initiative. Several banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) in India offer Fastag services to customers. Here are some of the Best Fastag providers in India:

Paytm Bank FASTag

Paytm Bank Fastag is a popular electronic toll collection system in India, with a network of over 300 toll plazas nationwide. It can be purchased online through the Paytm app or website and is linked to a prepaid account. Fastag users can recharge their accounts using various payment modes, such as net banking and debit or credit cards. Paytm Bank Fastag also provides users with additional features like transaction history and loyalty programs.

SBI Bank FASTag

SBI Bank Fastag is an electronic toll collection system offered by the State Bank of India. It is linked to a prepaid account, and the toll amount is deducted from the account as the vehicle passes through the toll plaza. SBI Bank Fastag can be purchased online through the SBI website or their authorized agents. It also provides users with additional features like SMS alerts and loyalty programs. SBI Bank Fastag is accepted on all national highways in India.

ICICI Bank FASTag

ICICI Bank offers the Best Fastag services for both retail and commercial vehicles. It has a wide network of distribution points, including toll plazas, branches, and online portals. ICICI Bank also offers features such as balance inquiry, transaction history, and SMS alerts.

Here are the Steps for ICICI Bank to Purchase FasTag in Pocket Wallet (Video from ICICI Bank website) :

Here are the Steps for ICICI Bank to Purchase FasTag on iMobile and Internet Banking (Video from ICICI Bank website):

HDFC Bank FASTag

HDFC Bank is one of the leading banks in India, and their Fastag service is reliable and efficient. They offer a range of Fastag options to suit different types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and buses.

Axis Bank FASTag

Axis Bank is a private sector bank that offers the Best Fastag services to its customers. They have a user-friendly web portal that allows customers to view their transactions and manage their accounts. It provides Fastag with waived monthly rent for the first year. Axis Bank Fastag can be purchased online or at select branches and recharged at ATMs/branches.

Airtel Payments Bank FASTag

Airtel Payments Bank is another digital wallet provider that offers Fastag services. It has a wide network of POS locations, including toll plazas and Airtel stores. Airtel Payments Bank offers features such as balance inquiry and transaction history.

Kotak Mahindra Bank FASTag

Kotak Mahindra Bank offers Best FASTag with an auto-reload feature and loyalty rewards. It can be purchased online or at select branches and recharged online at ATMs or branches. Kotak’s FASTag aims to provide vehicle owners with a convenient and rewarding toll payment experience.

Here is the Step by Step Video of Kotak Mahindra Bank Existing Customer Applying for FASTag (Video from Kotak Mahindra Bank website):

Here is the Step by Step Video of Kotak Mahindra Bank New Customer Applying for FASTag(Video from Kotak Mahindra Bank website):

Federal Bank FASTag

Federal Bank offers Best FASTag with waived issuance fee for the first year. Vehicle owners can purchase FASTag online or at select branches and recharge online or at branches. Federal Bank FASTag provides a cost-effective toll payment solution with the convenience of online and offline recharge options.

Punjab National Bank FASTag

Punjab National Bank offers Best FASTag with loyalty rewards for frequent toll users. It can be purchased online or at select branches and recharged online at ATMs or branches. PNB FASTag aims to provide a rewarding toll payment experience with recharge convenience for vehicle owners

State Bank of India (SBI) FASTag

SBI is India’s largest public sector bank. It offers Fastag loyalty rewards for frequent toll users and an auto-debit option from a linked SBI account. SBI Fastag can be applied through their website or branches and recharged online or at branches/ATMs.

FASTag Chargs Compare

This table describes the charges of different FASTag providers:

FASTag Provider	Joining Fee	Recharge Amount	Validity	Security Deposit	Convenience Fee	Cancellation Fee
Paytm	₹200	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.50% of recharge amount	₹100
HDFC Bank	₹100	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.25% of recharge amount	₹100
ICICI Bank	₹99	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.65% of recharge amount	₹100
Axis Bank	₹100	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	1.23% of recharge amount	₹100
SBI	₹100	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.50% of recharge amount	₹100
IDFC First Bank	₹0	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.50% of recharge amount	₹200
Karur Vysya Bank	₹100	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	1.00% of recharge amount	₹100
Equitas Bank	₹100	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.50% of recharge amount	₹100
Punjab National Bank	₹100	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.50% of recharge amount	₹100
Kotak Mahindra Bank	₹0	₹100 to ₹1,00,000	5 years	₹200	0.50% of recharge amount	₹100

How to Apply for the Best Fastag

Apply for Best Fastag Steps

You can apply for Fastag by following these steps:

1. Check if your vehicle registration is linked to your Aadhaar. If not, get it linked at your local RTO, as Fastag requires Aadhaar authentication.
2. Choose a Fastag provider – banks like HDFC, ICICI, and SBI, or payment wallets like Paytm. Compare their features and fees and select the provider that suits you.
3. Apply for Fastag on the provider’s website or visit their nearest branch. You will need to submit your vehicle registration details and Aadhaar number and make a payment for the tag cost and initial recharge.
4. The provider will dispatch your Fastag within 3-5 working days, which you can affix to your vehicle’s windshield.
5. Before passing through a toll plaza, recharge your Fastag online or offline based on the provider’s options to ensure seamless toll transactions.

Documents required for FASTag application

The following documents are generally required when applying for a FASTag in India:

• Registration Certificate (RC) of the vehicle
• Vehicle owner’s passport-size photograph
• KYC documents of the vehicle owner, such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID, or Passport
• Address proof of the vehicle owner, such as an Aadhaar card, Passport, or Utility Bill.
• A copy of the GST registration certificate is also required for commercial vehicles.

The specific documents required may vary depending on the issuer bank or agency. It’s recommended to check with the specific issuer bank or agency for the latest document requirements and guidelines before applying for a FASTag.

Apply for the Best Fastag Way

Applying for a Fastag is easy and can be done online or offline. Here’s how:

Online Application

Visit the website of your preferred Fastag provider and fill out the application form. Upload the required documents, such as your vehicle registration certificate, and address proof. Pay the initial cost and the security deposit, if applicable. Once your application is approved, the Fastag will be delivered to your registered address.

Offline Application

Visit the nearest Point of Sale (POS) location of your Fastag provider, such as a toll plaza or a bank. Fill out the application form and submit the required documents. Pay the initial cost and the security deposit, if applicable. Once your application is approved, the Fastag will be affixed to your vehicle’s windshield.

Notes on Applying for Fastag

Important things to note when applying for Fastag:

• Required documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents before applying. Check with your Fastag provider for specific requirements.
• Initial cost and security deposit: Be prepared to pay the initial cost of the Fastag and the security deposit, if applicable. The initial cost ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 500, while the security deposit can be up to Rs. 200, depending on the provider.
• Activation and recharge: Once you receive your Fastag, activate it by following the instructions provided by the provider. Recharge your Fastag using options such as online banking, mobile wallets, or credit/debit cards.

Choosing the best Fastag in India can save you time and money while traveling on national highways. With various providers offering competitive pricing, additional features, and wide acceptance, you must consider your needs and compare the options before deciding. Selecting the best Fastag for your vehicle allows you to enjoy a seamless toll payment experience and avoid penalties.

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About FASTag in India Q&A

1. Which Company Made FASTag in India?

   FASTag is a brand name and electronic toll collection system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It is an umbrella organization for operating retail payments and settlement systems in India. However, the government has authorized several banks and financial institutions in India to issue and distribute FASTags to users.

2. Are There any Monthly Charges for FASTag?

   There are monthly charges associated with FASTag. Depending on the bank that issued the FASTag, there may be one-time and monthly maintenance fees. Additional fees may also be associated with toll payments, balance inquiries, and other transactions.

3. Which Technology is Replacing FASTag?

   As of now, there is no specific technology that is replacing FASTag in India. FASTag is still the country’s preferred and most widely used electronic toll collection system. However, the government of India has been exploring and testing various technologies for electronic toll collection. Such as the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and the Dedicated Short-Range Communication (DSRC) system. These technologies are being tested in pilot projects and may be implemented in the future, but there is no indication that they will replace FASTag.

4. How Much does FASTag Activation Cost?

   The cost of activating a FASTag in India varies depending on the issuer bank or agency. Generally, the cost of activating a FASTag ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200. This fee includes the tag and security deposit costs. The security deposit is refundable, subject to the terms and conditions of the issuer bank or agency. Some banks and agencies may offer discounts, or cashback offers on the activation fee for FASTag. Checking with the specific issuer bank or agency for the latest fees and offers is recommended.