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Need to replace your FASTag? Here’s how to do it easily!

FASTag has become a significant element for smooth travel on India’s highways. However, just like any other tool/technology, your FASTag might require replacement due to wear and tear, malfunction, or because you’ve switched to a new vehicle. The process to replace your FASTag might seem off-putting at first, but it’s a fairly simple process. In this detailed guide, we’ll reveal everything needed for replacing a FASTag.

Understanding why you might need a Replacement

Before getting into the replacement process, it’d be good to first look at and understand the scenarios in which you might need to replace your FASTag:

Physical Damage: Over time, your FASTag may get damaged due to a variety of environmental factors (like exposure to sun). If the tag is no longer readable at toll plazas, it calls for a replacement.

Malfunction:Sometimes, a FASTag may stop functioning due to technical issues. This could result from a defect in the RFID chip or the adhesive no longer sticking properly to your windshield.

Vehicle Change: If you have sold your vehicle or bought a new one, you’ll need to replace your FASTag. FASTag is vehicle-specific, so it can’t be transferred from one vehicle to another.

Bank Change: If you decide to switch the bank or service provider for your FASTag, a replacement is needed. This might happen if you find better offers or services from a different provider.

Steps to Replace your FASTag

Even though replacing your FASTag is a simple process, it does involve a few steps that you’ll be better off knowing. We’ll go through them one by one.

Identify the Issue

The first step is to clearly identify why you need a replacement. Is the tag physically damaged or has it stopped functioning for no apparent reason? If you have switched vehicles, the need for a replacement is obvious. Knowing the exact reason will help streamline the process.

Contact your Issuing Bank or Service Provider

Once the need for a replacement has been identified, the next step involves getting in touch with your FASTag issuer. This could be the bank or service provider from whom you initially purchased the FASTag. You can usually get in touch with them through different means:

Customer Service: Calling them is often the quickest way to initiate the replacement process. Make sure that you have stuff like Account details, vehicle registration number, and FASTag ID handy when calling.

Website/App: Many issuers also offer the option to request a replacement FASTag through their website or app. Navigate to the section where you can manage your FASTag and select the optionto request a replacement.

Provide the necessary documents

Depending on the reason for replacement, you may need to submit some documents. For example, if your FASTag is damaged, you may not need to provide any additional documentation beyond verifying your account. But if you’ve changed vehicles, you’ll need to provide the new vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC).

Pay the Replacement Fees

Most banks and service providers charge a small fee for replacing a FASTag. The fee differs based on the issuer and covers the cost of the new tag and any administrative expenses. The payment can usually be made online through NetBanking or a debit/credit card.

Receive your new FASTag

After your request has been processed and the payment is confirmed, your new FASTag will be issued. Depending on your issuer, you’ll receive the replacement FASTag through mail or courier. You may also be able to pick it up at a designated location, such as a bank branch or a toll plaza.

Delivery Time: The time it takes to receive your new FASTag is generally between 5 to 7 business days. Though, this can vary based on the issuer and your location.

Install your new FASTag

Once you have received your new FASTag, it’s time to install it on your vehicle. Proper installation is important so that the tag functions correctly.

Installation Location: The FASTag should be placed on the inside of the car’s windshield. Ideally it should be behind the rear-view mirror. This position allows the tag to be easily scanned by toll plaza sensors.

Clean the Windshield: Before applying the FASTag, clean the windshield to remove any dust. This will make sure that the adhesive sticks properly.Also, note that you do not stick the FASTag using cello tape or any other kind of adhesive.

Apply the Tag: Carefully remove the backing paper and stick the FASTag on the windshield. Press it firmly so that it’s securely attached.

Activate and Link your new FASTag

After installing the FASTag, the next step is to activate it. Depending on your issuer, activation might be automatic or you may have to do it manually through their website or app.

Manual Activation: If your issuer requires manual activation, log in to your FASTag account and follow the instructions for activating a new tag. You’ll usually need to enter the tag’s unique ID and confirm your vehicle details.

Linking to Account: Make it a point to link your new FASTag with your existing account. This is important for seamless toll payment. If the tag isn’t linked, you may encounter issues at toll plazas.

Check your FASTag balance

Before hitting the road, check that your FASTag account has sufficient funds. You can do this through your issuer’s website or by sending an SMS to a designated number. Keeping your FASTag topped up will prevent any hiccups during your travels.

Replacing your FASTag might seem like a tedious task – but this is only at first glance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can replace your FASTag with minimal effort. Whether your FASTag is damaged, malfunctioning, or you’ve switched vehicles, the process to replace it is designed for ease and efficiency. By following these steps, you’ll quickly be back on the road with a fully operational FASTag.

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The Definitive Guide to FASTag for First-Time Users

A first time user of FASTag? It’s natural that you will have a list of questions about what it is, how it works, and how to get started. This definitive guide is designed to walk you through everything you want to know about FASTag and make your transition to cashless toll payments easier.

What is FASTag exactly?

FASTag is an electronic toll collection system in India that uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to automatically deduct toll charges as you pass through toll plazas. This means you no longer have to stop and pay in cash.

Instead, the toll amount is directly debited from your linked prepaid or savings account.

Why should you use FASTag?

Benefits are aplenty when you use FASTag. Some of these include the following:

Convenience – FASTag eliminates the need to carry cash or wait in long queues at tollbooths, saving your time and effort.

Travel Made Simple – With FASTag, you can drive through toll plazas without stopping. This eventually leads to faster and more efficient travel experience.

Discounts and Cashback–Some toll plazas offer discounts for using FASTag. Moreover, various banks often provide cashback offers to users.

Eco Friendly–It may not seem like a long time but stopping your vehicle and starting it up again does come down to a lot of gas emissions in the long run. Plus, if you combine it with thousands of vehicles passing toll booths regularly and you have got a serious environment problem. By reducing the idling time, FASTag helps lower fuel consumption and emissions.

How to get your FASTag?

Getting your FASTag is a simple process:

1. Choose a Provider: FASTag can be purchased through banks like IDFC First Bank, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank, as well as online marketplaces.

2.Documentation Formalities: You’ll need your vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC), proof of identity (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, etc.), and a passport-sized photograph.

3. Registration: Once you've chosen your provider, you can either visit their website or nearest branch to complete the registration process. You’ll need to fill out a form and submit the necessary documents.

4. Activation: After registering, your FASTag will be activated. Some providers offer immediate activation, whereas others may take a few hours.

5. Linking to an Account: You can link your FASTag to a prepaid account, savings account, or your UPI ID. This allows for automatic deduction of toll charges.

Using your FASTag

Once your FASTag is active, simply affix it to your vehicle’s windshield. As you approach a toll plaza, the RFID reader will scan your FASTag and the toll amount will be deducted from your linked account. You’ll receive an SMS notification for every transaction which helps in keeping track of your toll expenses.

FASTag is a game-changer for toll payments in India, offering a seamless and eco-friendly solution. By following this guide, first-time users can easily get started with FASTag and make their journeys more efficient in the long run.

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Essential Fastag Update you need to know for 2024

Starting from 1st August 2024, several important updates regarding FASTag usage and compliance have been introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). These updates aim to streamline the toll payment process and ensure a more secure and efficient system for vehicle owners. Here’s what you need to know about the new FASTag rules effective from August 1, 2024.

i) KYC Updates

One of the significant changes is the requirement for Know Your Customer (KYC) updates. Vehicle owners with FASTags issued three to five years ago mist update their respective KYC details by October 31, 2024.

This update is mandatory to continue using the FASTag service without any interruptions. If your FASTag is older than five years, you will need to replace it with a new one to comply with the regulations.

ii) Linking Vehicle Information

From April 1, 2024, the "One FASTag, One Vehicle" policy became mandatory. This policy requires each FASTag to be uniquely associated with a specific vehicle. All FASTag users must link their tags to the vehicle’s registration number (VRN), chassis number, and owner’s mobile number. New vehicle owners must update their registration number on the FASTag within 90 days of purchase. This measure helps prevent misuse and makes certain that each transaction is correctly attributed.

iii) Verification of Database

FASTag service providers are now required to verify and update their databases regularly. This includes a confirmation that the linked vehicle details match the ones in the VAHAN database so that everything is accurate and up-to-date.

iv) Linking Mobile Number

Each FASTag has to be linked with the mobile number of the owner. This linkage ensures better communication between the users and providers of FASTag. Furthermore, users will also benefit from receiving timely updates, notifications, and alerts.

Make sure your mobile number is correctly linked to avoid missing out on any crucial information.

v) Photo Upload

Lastly, to make sure that the vehicle associated with FASTag is correctly identified, providers must upload clear photographs of the vehicle. The images include the front and side of the vehicle as well as a clear view of the FASTag that’s affixed to the vehicle.

This requirement enhances security and ensures that the FASTag is being used correctly and legally.

Overall, by adhering to all the above guidelines, vehicle owners can ensure a smooth and hassle-free toll payment experience. Thus, it’s wise to stay updated and make the necessary changes before the final deadline of October 31, 2024 or you’ll have to face the penalty of double the toll charges.