How to Get FASTag Immediately Before Travel

As highways become more advanced, FASTag has revolutionized the driving experience in India by significantly reducing time spent at toll plazas. If you find yourself needing to hit the road on short notice, acquiring a FASTag quickly becomes essential.

This guide will walk you through how to get FASTag immediately and provide insights on managing your FASTag account, including how to change FASTag mobile number when needed.

Understanding FASTag

Firstly, let’s understand what a FASTag is. A FASTag is a simple reloadable tag that allows for the automatic deduction of toll charges. Affixed on the vehicle’s windscreen, it uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to facilitate electronic toll collection. This not only expedites your journey but also cuts down congestion at toll booths.

Why Get FASTag Immediately?

Getting a FASTag on an urgent basis can arise due to several reasons:

• Last-minute travel plans.
• Unpredictable journeys through tolled regions.
• Renewal or replacement of an expired or damaged FASTag.

Here’s how you can secure it swiftly:

How to Get FASTag Immediately

1. Online Purchase: Several online platforms and digital wallets offer FASTag, providing quick and seamless options for purchase.

• Banks: Most major banks like ICICI, HDFC, SBI, etc., offer the option to buy FASTag online through their websites. You can apply using your vehicle registration certificate (RC) and other KYC documents.
• E-commerce Websites: Platforms such as Amazon and Paytm also facilitate the purchase of FASTag. You often need to provide your vehicle registration details and other personal information.
• Mobile Wallets: Apps like Paytm and PhonePe offer an immediate option to buy FASTag online, linking it directly to your wallet for instant recharge and management.

When you purchase FASTag online, it can either be delivered to your address or, in some cases, it can be arranged for pickup at designated centers.

2. Point of Sale (POS) Locations: FASTag is also available at numerous Point of Sale (POS) locations set up by banks at toll plazas. This is an immediate way to acquire FASTag, especially useful when you’re near or passing by a toll plaza. Keep your vehicle RC and ID proofs handy to ensure a smooth purchase process.
3. Authorized Dealers: Some vehicle dealers also provide FASTag services. If there’s an authorized dealership nearby, you can get a FASTag right there. Ensure that the dealership is recognized by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) for FASTag distribution.

FASTag Activation

Once you receive your FASTag, the activation process is relatively straightforward, particularly when done online via apps or websites. You will generally need to complete the KYC process and link your bank account or mobile wallet for recharge facilities. The activation is usually immediate or within a few hours.

Managing FASTag: How to Change FASTag Mobile Number

Managing your FASTag efficiently ensures a stress-free journey. One significant aspect of management is keeping your contact information up-to-date, especially if you’ve changed your mobile number. Here’s how to change FASTag mobile number:

1. Via Bank’s Website/App:

• Login to the FASTag section of your associated bank’s website or app.
• Navigate to the account management settings.
• Update your mobile number by following the prompts.
• Submit the changes and verify if required (some banks may require OTP verification for security).

2. Customer Support: If you’re unable to change the mobile number online, customer support is a viable option. Call the FASTag helpline of your issuing bank. After verification of your identity, the representative can assist in updating your mobile number.
3. Visiting Banks: Though slightly less convenient, visiting the nearest branch of your FASTag issuing bank allows you to make changes in person. Carry necessary documents for verification, such as your ID proof and RC.

Additional Tips for Using FASTag

• Keep it Recharged: Ensure that your FASTag account is always topped up. Enable auto-recharge features on linked banking apps to prevent any interruptions during your travel.
• Check Account Balance Regularly: Regular check-ins on your FASTag balance via mobile apps can help in keeping track of your expenses and preventing low-balance scenarios.
• Proper FASTag Placement: Ensure that your FASTag is affixed correctly on your vehicle’s windscreen for seamless scanning and toll deduction.
• Read the Fine Print: Always be aware of your plan’s validity, expiry, and any potential renewal steps needed to keep the FASTag operational.

Conclusion

Understanding how to get FASTag immediately ensures that your travels are uninterrupted, efficient, and stress-free. With the growing demand due to fast-paced lifestyles and unplanned travel, knowing these quick methods to procure and manage your FASTag is invaluable. By following the outlined steps, traveller anxiety at toll booths becomes a thing of the past, leading to a smoother, faster journey. And with the right management practices, like knowing how to change FASTag mobile number, you empower yourself to avoid potential hiccups along the road. Just remember, a well-prepared traveller is a happy traveller.