What is NHAI FASTag Annual Pass? Know Its Eligibility, Activation and How it Works

The FASTag Annual Pass is a prepaid toll plan and this initiative is taken by the National Authorities of India (NHAI). The annual pass is set to roll out from 15 August 2025 on the occasion of Independence Day of India. This pass scheme is designed for private non- commercial vehicles that are approved on the VAHAN database. The FAQs on NHAI website mentions: “The Annual Pass is applicable only for private non-commercial Car/Jeep/Van after checking through VAHAN database. Use in any commercial vehicle will result in immediate deactivation without notice.”

This scheme is quite beneficial for the frequent highway users and it will help them to save money and time by avoiding repeated recharges and reducing delays at toll plazas.

What is the Eligibility and Coverage of FASTag Annual Pass?

As per the official NHAI FAQs, the FASTag Annual Pass is valid only for private vehicles that are used for non commercial travels. These vehicles must be registered under VAHAN to gain access to the FASTag Annual pass. All the commercial vehicles are exempted from this scheme. 

The pass is valid across National Highways (NH) and National Expressways (NE) managed by NHAI or the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH). However, it does not apply to State Highways, municipal toll roads, or privately managed expressways—where the FASTag reverts to the regular pay-per-use model. The NHAI FAQs mentions: “No. The Annual Pass is applicable only for private non-commercial Car/Jeep/Van after checking through VAHAN database. Use in any commercial vehicle will result in immediate deactivation without notice.”

“It is valid only at National Highway (NH) and National Expressway (NE) fee plazas. At fee plazas on Expressways, State Highways (SH), etc. managed by State Governments or local bodies, parkings etc the FASTag will operate as a regular FASTag, and applicable user fee charges may apply,” it adds. 

How to Activate the FASTag Annual Pass?

Before activation, ensure that your FASTag is active, properly affixed to the windscreen, linked to a valid Vehicle Registration Number (VRN), and not blacklisted. If the FASTag is still linked to a chassis number, update it with the VRN before proceeding. 

The activation process can be completed through the Rajmarg Yatra mobile app or via the NHAI and MoRTH websites. Once logged in using your vehicle number and FASTag ID, you can make the ₹3,000 payment via UPI, debit/credit card, net banking, or other available options. After payment, the pass usually activates within two hours, although in some cases it may take up to 24 hours. An SMS confirmation will be sent once the activation is successful. 

The NHAI mentions: “No. You do not need to purchase a new FASTag. The Annual Pass can be activated on your existing FASTag, provided it meets the eligibility criteria (i.e., it is properly affixed on the vehicle's windshield, linked to a valid Vehicle Registration Number, not blacklisted etc).”

How Does the FASTag Annual Pass Work?

The pass operates on a trip-count basis:

• At point-based toll plazas, each crossing counts as one trip. A round trip equals two trips.

• At closed tolling plazas, where entry and exit are both recorded, the complete journey counts as a single trip. 

When you either complete 200 trips or reach the one-year limit, the pass automatically switches back to the standard FASTag pay-per-use mode. The pass is non-transferable and tied to the specific vehicle’s FASTag. It is also non-refundable, even if unused. 

The NHAI states: “The Annual Pass is valid for one year from the date of activation or 200 transactions (trips), whichever comes first. Once the Annual Pass completes either 200 trips or one year from the date of activation, it will automatically revert to a regular FASTag. To continue using the Annual Pass benefits, the user will need to re-activate the Annual Pass to get 200 trips / 1 year validity.”

What are the Benefits of the FASTag Annual Pass?

The primary advantage is cost savings. For frequent highway travellers, the ₹3,000 fee can result in savings of up to 70–80% compared to regular toll charges.

It also saves time, as you avoid frequent recharges and reduce stoppage at toll booths. This contributes to smoother traffic flow at plazas and makes long-distance travel more convenient. Additionally, since it integrates with the existing FASTag system, there is no need for extra devices or separate passes.

What are the Limitations of FASTag Annual Pass?

The FASTag Annual Pass is beneficial for regular highway commuters, and it might not be cost effective for occasional travellers. Moreover, the coverage is only limited to the highways that are managed by the NHAI which means that users still need to pay separately for state highways or municipal toll roads. 

Will Users Still Be Able to Use the Regular FASTag?

The normal FASTag system will continue to function as usual. Vehicle owners who do not require an annual pass can keep using their regular FASTag for toll payments. They simply need to maintain enough balance in their FASTag account to ensure smooth transactions. The annual pass option is just an additional facility for those who frequently travel on specific routes and want the convenience of paying in advance. 

The NHAI mentions: “The Annual Pass is not mandatory, existing FASTag ecosystem will continue to operate as is. Users who do not opt for the Annual Pass can continue to use their FASTag for regular transactions as per applicable user fee rates at fee plazas.”

In conclusion, the FASTag Annual Pass is an optional, cost-effective solution for private vehicle owners who frequently travel on national highways and expressways. Priced at ₹3,000 for up to 200 trips or one year, it offers significant savings and convenience, but only if you use highways regularly.