Traveling on National Highways Becomes More Expensive: FASTag Annual Pass Prices Rise Starting Today

FASTag New Rules 2026: Traveling across toll plazas nationwide has become more expensive starting today. You will now have to pay an additional ₹75 for a FASTag annual pass. The government has also completely discontinued cash payments at toll plazas.

FASTag New Rules 2026: Today—April 1, 2026—marks the beginning of the new financial year, and along with it, several major changes have come into effect for those traveling on national highways. If you frequently travel on highways in your car, you will now have to spend more money than before to pay tolls.

What is the New Price of the Annual Pass?

The NHAI (National Highways Authority of India) has increased the price of the FASTag annual pass available for private vehicles. Previously, you had to pay ₹3,000 for this pass; now, you will be required to pay ₹3,075. This represents a direct increase of ₹75. This new rule has been implemented across more than 1,150 toll plazas nationwide. Approximately 5.6 million people currently utilize this pass and will now be required to pay a higher amount at the time of renewal.

How Many Trips Are Covered, and for How Long is the Exemption Valid?

This pass is most beneficial for individuals who frequently use the highways throughout the year. The terms and conditions of this pass are as follows:

The pass remains valid for a period of one year.
It allows for a maximum of 200 toll crossings.
The pass will expire as soon as either the one-year validity period ends or the limit of 200 trips is exhausted.

Will 'Cash' Payments No Longer Be Accepted at Toll Plazas?

Yes, the government has now decided to completely discontinue cash transactions at toll plazas. You will be required to make payments exclusively through FASTag, UPI, or QR codes. Additionally, standard toll tax rates have also been increased by approximately 2 percent. What is the benefit of this for the general public?

Even though the cost has increased by ₹75, an annual pass remains a superior option for those who frequently travel long distances. It eliminates the hassle of repeated recharges and saves time at toll plazas. Particularly for daily commuters in regions like Delhi-NCR, this ‘cashless’ facility makes traveling significantly easier and stress-free.