FASTag: Big news for FASTag users. The FASTag annual pass was introduced to make toll tax payments easier nationwide, but it seems to be creating issues for travelers. Launched on August 15, 2025, this annual FASTag was anticipated to facilitate smoother travel across the country; however, the situation is quite different. Many highways and expressways do not accept this pass, requiring travelers to pay tolls on those routes.
The FASTag annual pass is valid for one year and costs around Rs 3,000. It allows for 200 trips or is valid for one year, whichever comes first.
Which routes do not accept the FASTag annual pass?
This pass is not applicable on several highways and expressways managed by state governments.
– Atal Setu (Goa)
– Mumbai–Pune Expressway (Maharashtra)
– Samruddhi Highway (Maharashtra)
– Purvanchal Expressway (Uttar Pradesh)
– Yamuna Expressway (Uttar Pradesh)
– Bundelkhand Expressway (Uttar Pradesh)
– Agra-Lucknow Expressway (Uttar Pradesh)
Tolls on these routes are managed by state or separate authorities, which is why the FASTag Annual Pass cannot be used there.
Why is this pass not accepted on these routes?
The FASTag Annual Pass was specifically created by NHAI for national highways and toll plazas under the central government. However, state government expressways and local projects have their own toll systems, which is why this pass does not apply to those tolls.
How will tolls be collected where the annual pass is not valid?
Many people are curious about how to pay tolls on roads where this pass is not accepted. Today, we will clarify that at toll plazas where the annual pass is not valid, the toll will be deducted from your regular FASTag account. Therefore, even if you have an annual pass, it’s essential to keep a balance in your FASTag account.
FASTag Annual Pass
Meahwhile a major change may soon be seen in the toll tax system. Keeping in mind the difficulties faced by motorists, the central government is working on a scheme that will alleviate the hassle of repeatedly making payments at toll plazas. Under this new scheme, local residents living near toll plazas will be provided with digital monthly and annual passes.This pass is linked to a Fastag, eliminating the need to repeatedly stop to pay toll fees and allowing you to cross tolls with ease. The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ primary goal is to make the toll system seamless. According to officials, this feature could be implemented by next month.
This monthly pass will be available to those who live within 20 km radius of any toll plaza. Those who have private i.e. non-commercial vehicles. According to the new system, digital passes will be issued to identify vehicle owners through Aadhaar number. Once the pass is directly linked to Fastag, drivers will be able to cross the toll plaza without stopping.