The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced a new toll payment structure. The move aims to make highway travel more seamless while reducing the chances of cash transactions. The ministry has revised the rules to create a new tiered fee structure for vehicles without a valid FASTag, encouraging digital payments while maintaining convenience for all types of travelers.
The New Highway Toll Rules Explained
Until now, drivers whose FASTags did not work-due to low balance, technical glitches, or simply because they did not have one-had to pay double the standard toll fee, regardless of how they paid.
From November 15, that system will change. Under the revised structure, non-FASTag users who continue to pay by cash will still be charged double the toll amount. However, those who choose to pay via digital payment methods such as UPI or other approved platforms will be charged 1.25 times the normal fee.
For instance, if the toll charge for a vehicle is Rs 100 through FASTag, a driver will now pay Rs 125 when using UPI and Rs 200 when paying cash.
Why the Change Was Introduced
According to the Ministry’s release dated October 4, 2025, the amendment to the National Highways Fee Rules was made to promote digital transactions, reduce congestion at toll plazas, and improve the overall efficiency of toll collection across the country.
Unsure about Your FASTag status Here’s How To check
If you’re unsure about the status of your FASTag and want to ensure it’s still active—so you don’t face any issues at toll booths—follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official NPCI website: Go to npci.org.in.
- Navigate to the “NETC FASTag Status” page.
- Check the status by entering either:
- Your Vehicle Registration Number (VRN), or
- Your NETC FASTag ID.
- If your FASTag has sufficient balance but is inactive for some reason, you may also be eligible to claim a bonus through the same website.
