Becoming a first-time car owner is an exciting milestone for Indians. However, owning a car is not just about the steering wheel and open roads. There are several practical aspects you must prepare for, and one of the most important among them is managing toll payments while driving on highways. Here are some things first-time car owners should consider to ensure a smooth highway driving experience.
Digital toll payments
Gone are the days of keeping loose change handy or waiting in long queues at toll booths. Today, toll payments have gone digital across most national and state highways. Electronic toll collection not only speeds up travel time but also promotes cashless transactions, which are safer and more transparent.
The importance of a FASTag
A FASTag is a small, rechargeable sticker with RFID technology that is affixed to your car’s windscreen. It automatically deducts the toll amount from your linked Bank Account or prepaid wallet as you pass through toll plazas. FASTag stickers are now mandatory for most vehicles on national highways. If your car does not have one, you could face double the toll amount or be denied passage at certain lanes.
Buy and recharge online
One of the biggest conveniences for vehicle owners is the ability to buy and manage FASTag online. Whether through a bank portal, digital wallet, or authorised agent, you can apply for a tag, upload required documents, and complete KYC; all from the comfort of your home. Recharging is equally simple and can be done using net banking, UPI, Debit Cards, or mobile apps.
Monitoring transactions
It is important to link your FASTag with a valid Bank Account or prepaid wallet. Once linked, you will receive alerts for every transaction, helping you monitor toll expenses and keep track of balance levels. Most service providers also offer a mobile dashboard where you can view your recharge history and set up low balance alerts.
Avoiding penalties
If your FASTag is inactive or underfunded, you may be delayed at toll booths or fined. To avoid this, ensure your tag is always recharged in advance, especially before long journeys. Setting up auto-recharge options can help keep the balance topped up without manual effort.
Conclusion
Highway travel has become far more efficient due to the shift to digital toll systems. As a first-time car owner, adopting tools like FASTag and managing your FASTag online not only saves time and fuel but also ensures compliance with government regulations. A little preparation goes a long way in making every road journey smooth and hassle-free.
