Non-FASTag Vehicles to Face 25% Higher Toll Charges from Nov 15!

Starting November 15, 2025, motorists without FASTag will experience a major change in toll charges. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced that non-FASTag vehicles paying through UPI or similar digital payment modes will be charged 1.25 times the regular fee instead of the current double toll rate for cash payments. This decision marks a significant step toward encouraging digital transactions and reducing congestion at toll plazas.

Background: FASTag Annual Pass Gets Big Response

Earlier this year, NHAI introduced the FASTag Annual Pass facility at about 1,150 toll plazas nationwide, including National Highways and Expressways.

• Launched on Independence Day 2025, it received an overwhelming response with 1.4 lakh buyers on its very first day.
• The scheme aims to streamline toll collection and promote cashless transactions.

Current Toll Structure vs. New Policy

At present:

• FASTag users pay the standard toll fee.
• Cash transactions for non-FASTag vehicles are charged twice the fee.

From November 15, 2025:

• Non-FASTag users paying via UPI or other digital payment modes will pay only 1.25 times the regular fee.
• Cash payments will still remain 2 times the standard fee, discouraging manual payments.

Example of New Toll Charges

Government’s Objective

According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, this amendment to the National Highway Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008 is designed to:

• Promote digital payments across toll plazas.
• Enhance transparency in toll collection operations.
• Reduce congestion by speeding up the payment process.
• Improve user experience for commuters on National Highways.

The move aligns with the Government of India’s push toward leveraging technology for efficient toll management and reducing operational inefficiencies.

Impact on Commuters

This change offers relief to non-FASTag users who opt for UPI:

• Significant savings compared to the current cash penalty.
• Faster passage at toll gates with reduced queue times.
• Encourages every vehicle owner to adopt digital-first payment methods even without FASTag.

Conclusion

From November 15, paying tolls without FASTag will become more affordable for those using UPI or digital methods, with charges set at 1.25 times the regular rate. This policy change not only benefits motorists but also strengthens India’s journey toward a seamless, tech-driven toll collection ecosystem. FASTag remains the most cost-effective and efficient option, but for those yet to adopt it, UPI payments will now be a smart alternative.