If you have ever traveled the highways of India in the last year, you know why FASTag is no longer optional. You now have to use FASTag on all national toll plazas, and there is a very good reason. FASTag enables hassle-free, cardless payment of tolls, as the toll is electronically debited from your prepaid account as you pass through the toll plaza, reducing traffic congestion and saving on fuel wastage while idling. With over 30 banks and fintechs offering FASTag services, the question arises – which one is the best FASTag in India?
Though all FASTags are interoperable with all toll plazas across India, operators do not offer the same experience. Whether it’s from recharge convenience to customer service, cashback rewards to app experience, the service level varies. Here’s an exhaustive blog that deconstructs everything you need to know to choose the best FASTag for you.
What Is FASTag and How Does It Work?
FASTag is an electronic payment system for tolls operated by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). FASTag operates on the principle of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, integrated into a sticker that you attach to your car’s windscreen. As you pass through a toll plaza, sensors scan the tag, identify your vehicle, and pay the toll from your linked FASTag wallet.
Once you install, you do not have to stop or pay in cash. The entire transaction is automatic, swift, and quite convenient. But to use FASTag uninterrupted, you need a partner who offers convenient account management, reliable recharge facilities, and sufficient customer care.
Common FASTag Fees in India
While other service providers charge according to the rates set by NHAI, there may be some minimal difference between banks and digital service providers. Below is an approximate indication of the cost:
| Fee Type | Range |
| Tag Joining Fee | ₹100 – ₹150 |
| Refundable Security Deposit | ₹100 – ₹200 |
| Minimum Balance (Threshold Amount) | ₹200 – ₹500 |
Once you pay these initial fees, all future toll payments simply get deducted from your available balance.
Best FASTag Providers in India
With scores of banks and apps offering FASTag facilities, let’s look at the most reliable and popular options that have emerged as the best choices among Indian drivers.
1. ICICI Bank FASTag
Among India’s most popular issuers of FASTags is ICICI Bank. Its application is very smooth, both online and offline. Their app is very convenient, with fast recharge, almost instant transaction confirmations, and a very quick customer care system. ICICI also provides parking payments at select outlets and regular cashback offers.
Why choose ICICI Bank FASTag?
- Nationwide toll acceptance
- Easy recharge options via multiple channels
- Reliable customer service
- Parking and fuel payment integrations
- Clean app interface with instant alerts
2. HDFC Bank FASTag
HDFC Bank offers one of the most refined app-based experiences to manage your FASTag account. Its app comes with features like live balance updates, recharge history, and convenient funds transfer. They also offer cashback promotional offers regularly, especially to their newest customers.
Key benefits of HDFC Bank FASTag:
- Well-designed mobile app
- Fast customer grievance redressal
- Cashback and reward offers
- Parking integration at select facilities
- Easy net banking and credit card recharge options
3. SBI FASTag
State Bank of India offers a low-cost FASTag with zero joining fee, which is attractive to beginners. Its biggest strength is the extensive number of India-based offices, where you can actually visit to submit an application. Refilling with SBI’s app, YONO, is seamless.
Highlights of SBI FASTag:
- No joining fee
- Wide offline branch network
- Easy UPI and YONO app recharge options
- Simplified customer service for existing SBI customers
4. Axis Bank FASTag
Axis Bank FASTag provides a convenient and secure platform for making payments for parking charges, as well as tolls. You receive timely reminders, complete transaction records, and convenient recharge services through the app.
Benefits of Axis Bank FASTag:
- Transparent transaction tracking
- Parking fee integration
- Quick resolution of customer queries
- Multiple recharge methods
5. Kotak Mahindra Bank FASTag
Kotak FASTag service provides comprehensive trip reports, an intuitive app interface, and convenient recharge processes. Ease of management is only felt by Kotak customers, but anyone can easily make an application.
Why opt for Kotak FASTag?
- Easy recharge through the Kotak app
- Trip-wise spending reports
- Dedicated customer care helpline
- Fast delivery of physical tags
6. IDFC First Bank FASTag
The IDFC First Bank is renowned for providing a smooth onboarding experience and doorstep delivery of FASTag stickers. Their app is simple, efficient, and designed for customers who are looking for basic account management.
What makes IDFC First FASTag a good choice?
- Low joining fees
- Doorstep delivery option
- Quick issue resolution
- Simple recharge process
7. Paytm FASTag
The popularity of Paytm FASTag increased due to the instant digital issuing process. You can buy, activate, and recharge the card directly within the Paytm app. Its Paytm wallet-linked model allows automatic, smooth recharge as and when the balance depletes.
Paytm FASTag highlights:
- Instant issuance and activation
- Fully digital application
- Cashback offers for frequent users
- Auto-recharge feature linked to the wallet
- Wide user base
8. Amazon Pay FASTag
Amazon Pay has also joined the FASTag segment with instant online payments, delivery at the door, and periodic cashback deals. Amazon Pay FASTag works best for customers who are accustomed to using Amazon’s payment platform.
Key benefits of Amazon Pay FASTag:
- Fully online application
- Quick activation and delivery
- Cashback promotions
- Simple wallet recharge integration
Quick Comparison Summary
| Provider | Key Strengths |
| ICICI Bank | Best all-around features, nationwide network |
| HDFC Bank | Excellent app, strong customer support |
| SBI | No joining fee, accessible offline network |
| Axis Bank | Parking integration, transparent transactions |
| Kotak Mahindra | Detailed trip summaries, reliable service |
| IDFC First Bank | Low fees, fast doorstep delivery |
| Paytm | Instant issuance, wallet-based auto-recharge |
| Amazon Pay | Fast digital onboarding, occasional cashback |
Benefits of Using FASTag
- Saves time and gas as long waiting times to pay tolls are eliminated
- Reduces vehicle idling and emissions
- Ensures full transparency of toll costs
- Allows cashless, contactless payment
- Provides periodic cashback incentives
- Enables parking, refueling, and city toll services integration
How to Apply for FASTag
Purchasing a FASTag has never been easier. Here are the ways you can register:
- Visit the chosen bank or app’s web page or on-site POS center.
- Documents to be provided: Registration Certificate (RC) of the vehicle, proof of address, proof of ID (Aadhaar/PAN), and passport-size photograph.
- Remit the required payments and security deposit.
- Pick up your FASTag sticker and get it registered on the app.
- Stick the sticker on the car windscreen and you can use it.
Conclusion
Choosing the best FASTag provider is a matter of personal choice. If you require good customer care, ICICI and HDFC Bank are the best. If you require low fees and convenience to reach branches, SBI is a better option. For rapid digital onboarding, Paytm and Amazon Pay are unparalleled. No matter which FASTag you opt for, the advantages of instant toll pass, cashless travel, and fuel savings make it an indispensable accessory for every highway traveler in India. With the right provider, your highway journey becomes smoother, speedier, and much more efficient.
FAQs about Best FASTags
Q. Is FASTag mandatory for all vehicles?
Yes, FASTag is mandatory for all four-wheel vehicles on national highways in India.
Q. Can I use the same FASTag for multiple vehicles?
No. A FASTag is linked to only one specific vehicle registration number.
Q. What happens if my FASTag balance runs out?
If your FASTag does not have sufficient balance, you get stopped at the toll plaza or you are charged double the toll as a fine.
Q. How soon is FASTag activated after purchase?
FASTag activation typically happens within 24-48 hours. Some digital platforms, like Paytm and Amazon, activate instantaneously.
Q. Can I transfer my FASTag to another vehicle?
No. You need to give up the old account and obtain a fresh FASTag on the new car.
