FASTag is a sticker embedded with RFID technology that enables automatic and cashless toll payments on Indian highways. Many frequent highway users already have a FASTag linked to their vehicle and a prepaid wallet from an authorised bank, allowing for seamless toll plaza crossings. However, there may be situations where you want to switch your FASTag account from one bank to another for various reasons, such as better service, banking regulations, or changes in your preferences. This guide outlines why and how you can transfer your FASTag to a different bank without disrupting your toll payments.
Why Do People Transfer Their FASTag Account?
Several key factors might prompt users to change the bank associated with their FASTag:
- Bank Suspension by RBI: Banks may sometimes face bans or suspensions by the Reserve Bank of India due to non-compliance or regulatory issues. If your FASTag is linked to such a bank, it will become non-functional. In such cases, transferring your FASTag to another bank becomes necessary to ensure uninterrupted toll payments.
- One FASTag One Vehicle Policy: According to the National Highway Authority of India’s rule, only one active FASTag can be linked to a single vehicle. If you have multiple FASTags from different banks for the same vehicle, only the most recently activated one will work. To maintain a specific FASTag’s usefulness, switching banks and deactivating older tags might be required.
- Inactive Accounts or Better Services: If your current FASTag account is inactive due to insufficient balance or lack of use, you might want to switch to another bank. Additionally, some banks may provide better features, customer support, or lower charges, motivating users to transfer their FASTag accounts.
How to Transfer Your FASTag Account Online
It’s important to note that a FASTag account cannot be directly transferred from one bank to another. Instead, the process involves deactivating or closing your existing FASTag account and then applying for a new FASTag with the bank of your choice. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to manage this transition online:
- Deactivate Your Current FASTag: First, contact your current FASTag issuing bank’s customer service or log into their online platform to request the closure or deactivation of your existing FASTag account. This step is crucial to avoid confusion and duplicate FASTags for the same vehicle.
- Apply for a New FASTag: Head over to the official website or mobile app of the bank you want to switch to. Navigate to the FASTag section, usually found under ‘Products’ or ‘Services’.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the application by providing necessary details such as vehicle registration number, owner’s name, and contact information.
- Upload Required Documents: Upload scanned copies of documents needed for KYC verification and vehicle ownership proof, such as your Registration Certificate (RC), photo ID, and passport-size photo.
- Make the Payment: Pay the applicable fees, which typically include the cost of the FASTag sticker, a refundable security deposit, and an initial recharge amount to activate your FASTag.
- Receive Your New FASTag: After processing your application and payment, the new FASTag will be delivered to your registered address.
- Activate the New FASTag: Once you receive your new FASTag, activate it online or via the bank’s app so it is linked to your vehicle and prepaid wallet for automatic toll payments.
Important Considerations During Transfer
- Make sure your existing FASTag account is fully closed or deactivated before activating the new one to comply with the one FASTag per vehicle rule.
- Request a refund of any remaining balance from your old FASTag account by following your current bank’s refund procedures.
- Use the new FASTag only after official activation to avoid toll payment errors.
- Keep your vehicle registration details consistent throughout the process for hassle-free validation.
Transferring your FASTag account to another bank is a practical solution when your current bank’s services are lacking, or regulatory changes make it necessary. By following the proper steps to close your old FASTag and apply for a new one, you can continue enjoying the convenience of cashless toll payments without interruptions on your highway journeys.
