Synopsis: From November 15, 2025, vehicles without a valid FASTag will pay 1.25× the regular toll if paying via UPI and 2× if paying in cash, as per the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) (Third Amendment) Rules, 2025.
New Delhi: In a push for faster, digital tolling, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has notified that vehicles entering a National Highways fee plaza without a valid, functional FASTag will face higher charges from November 15, 2025.
What changes for non-FASTag users:
- Paying via UPI: Toll = 1.25× the applicable fee.
- Paying in Cash: Toll = 2× the applicable fee (unchanged penalty for cash without FASTag).
Simple example (for clarity):
- If regular FASTag toll is Rs. 100 → UPI (no FASTag) = Rs. 125; Cash (no FASTag) = Rs. 200.
Why this change? To encourage digital payments, reduce cash handling at plazas, and cut congestion, while maintaining a deterrent for non-FASTag vehicles.
What counts as “valid FASTag”? The tag must be active, linked to your vehicle, and have sufficient balance. A blacklisted/defective/expired tag is treated as not valid.
Quick checklist before you travel:
- Verify FASTag status in your issuer app/portal; ensure balance is topped up.
- Keep your UPI app ready as a fallback; avoid cash to prevent 2× charges.
- Ensure the FASTag is correctly affixed on the windshield and not physically damaged.
Official note (essentials): Under the amended rules effective November 15, 2025, vehicles entering a fee plaza without a valid, functional FASTag will be charged 2× if they choose to pay in cash; those opting to pay via UPI will be charged 1.25× the applicable user fee for their category.
Bottom line: Keep your FASTag active and funded to pay the regular toll. If you must pay on the spot, choose UPI (1.25×) rather than cash (2×).
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