The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced the FASTag Annual Pass for private vehicles in a special Independence Day initiative. Available from August 15, 2025, this pass offers toll-free travel on selected National Highways (NH) and National Expressways (NE) for one year or up to 200 trips, whichever comes first. Here, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of its benefits, cost-effectiveness, eligibility, limitations, and the complete application process.
What Is the FASTag Annual Pass?
The FASTag Annual Pass is designed to make highway travel more affordable and convenient for frequent travelers. By paying a one-time fee of ₹3,000, eligible vehicle owners can enjoy cashless, unlimited convenience for up to 200 toll crossings or a maximum of 12 months, depending on which comes first.
This pass is currently exclusive to private vehicles like cars, jeeps, and vans, and it is non-transferable.
Key Benefits of the FASTag Annual Pass
Huge Savings on Toll Costs: Average per-trip cost drops from ₹50–₹100 to around ₹15.
Hassle-Free Travel: No repeated payments at toll booths on designated NH and NE routes.
Fast Activation: Pass is linked to your FASTag within two hours of payment.
Long-Term Validity: Valid for 12 months or 200 trips, whichever is earlier.
Secure and Vehicle-Specific: Linked to the registered vehicle’s FASTag to prevent misuse.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying the FASTag Annual Pass
Buying the FASTag Annual Pass is simple and fully online. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Access the Official Platform
Download the RajmargYatra mobile app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Alternatively, visit the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) official website.
2. Log In and Enter Details
Sign in using your registered mobile number.
Provide your vehicle registration number and FASTag details.
3. Verify Eligibility
Ensure your FASTag is properly installed, linked to your vehicle, and active.
Only private category vehicles (cars, jeeps, vans) are eligible at this stage.
4. Make Payment
Pay the ₹3,000 fee using a secure online payment gateway (UPI, debit card, credit card, net banking).
5. Activation Confirmation
Upon successful payment, the pass will be linked to your FASTag.
Activation typically occurs within two hours.
How Much Can You Save? The Real Math
The savings potential depends on your travel frequency and toll charges:
Scenario 1 – Moderate Toll Costs:
Average toll fee: ₹50
200 trips without the pass: ₹50 × 200 = ₹10,000
With the pass: ₹3,000
Savings: ₹7,000
Scenario 2 – Higher Toll Costs:
Average toll fee: ₹80
200 trips without the pass: ₹80 × 200 = ₹16,000
With the pass: ₹3,000
Savings: ₹13,000
Scenario 3 – Shorter Routes with Lower Fees:
Average toll fee: ₹30
200 trips without the pass: ₹6,000
With the pass: ₹3,000
Savings: ₹3,000
The more expensive your route’s tolls, the greater the percentage of savings.
Validity and Usage Rules
Validity Period: 1 year from the activation date or until 200 trips are completed.
Trip Definition: Each passage through a toll plaza counts as 1 trip; a round trip counts as 2 trips.
Automatic Conversion: After expiry, the pass reverts to regular FASTag toll deductions.
Reactivation: To continue benefits, repurchase the pass through the same process.
Where the Pass Works and Where It Doesn’t
Applicable Locations
Selected National Highway toll plazas
Selected National Expressway toll plazas
Not Applicable On
State highways
City tolls
Local body-operated toll plazas
Parking facilities
Important Limitations to Note
Vehicle-Specific: Pass is linked to one vehicle’s FASTag and cannot be transferred.
Non-Refundable: Once purchased, there is no refund or partial refund option.
Limited Coverage: Only works on NH and NE toll plazas designated under the scheme.
Misuse Prevention: Attempting to use it on another vehicle’s FASTag will result in deactivation.
Special Independence Day Launch Offer
While the ₹3,000 fee is the standard price, launching on Independence Day 2025 gives it symbolic significance. The government aims to encourage cashless transactions and reduce congestion at toll plazas by providing this cost-effective option for frequent highway travelers.
Who Should Consider Buying the FASTag Annual Pass?
The pass is most beneficial for:
Daily commuters traveling between two cities.
Business owners with frequent intercity delivery trips.
Families who make regular long-distance visits.
Highway travelers with routes having high toll fees.
If you rarely travel on NH or NE roads, the pass may not provide significant savings.
Expert Travel Tip: Maximize Your Pass Usage
Plan Long-Distance Trips: Schedule journeys that include multiple NH/NE crossings.
Track Your Trip Count: Use the RajmargYatra app to monitor remaining trips.
Avoid Using on Non-Eligible Roads: State highway tolls will still deduct regular FASTag amounts.
Renew Promptly: If you use up 200 trips before the year ends, renew immediately to continue saving.
FASTag Annual Pass vs. Regular FASTag
| Feature | Regular FASTag | FASTag Annual Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Method | Pay per trip | One-time ₹3,000 fee |
| Validity | Unlimited trips, pay-as-you-go | 1 year or 200 trips |
| Cost per Trip | Depends on toll rates | As low as ₹15 per trip |
| Coverage | All toll plazas | Selected NH & NE toll plazas |
| Savings Potential | Low | High for frequent travelers |
Final Verdict: Is It Really Worth It?
If you frequently travel on designated National Highways and Expressways, the FASTag Annual Pass can provide massive savings, smoother travel, and reduced toll booth delays. For commuters covering high-toll routes, it can save up to ₹13,000 annually.
However, occasional travelers or those primarily using state highways may not benefit significantly. Before purchasing, analyze your travel patterns, routes, and toll costs to see if you’ll reach the 200-trip threshold within a year.
In short: For regular highway users, this pass is a smart, cost-effective choice that blends convenience with substantial financial savings.
