Author
LoansJagat Team
Read Time
8 Min
30 Apr 2025
Ramesh Desai, 45, a sales manager in Mumbai, spends a major portion of his day on the road. His job requires him to travel frequently throughout Maharashtra, which takes him through multiple toll plazas daily. The traditional toll payment system frequently resulted in queues, wasted fuel, and lost time frustrations shared by many commuters throughout the nation.
Recognising these issues, the Indian government implemented FASTag, an electronic toll-collecting system designed to simplify toll payments and reduce traffic congestion. Among the several banks that provide this service, IDFC First Bank FASTag stands out because of its user-friendly features and widespread acceptability.
To understand the impact of FASTag on daily commuters like Ramesh, let's examine his monthly toll expenses before and after adopting IDFC First Bank FASTag:
Expense Type | Before FASTag | After FASTag |
Toll Charges | ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 |
Fuel Wastage | ₹800 | ₹200 |
Time Spent | 15 hours | 5 hours |
Total Expense | ₹5,800 | ₹5,200 |
Note: Figures are approximate and represent monthly averages.
IDFC First Bank FASTag employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to facilitate seamless toll payments. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of its operation:
IDFC First Bank FASTag offers a plethora of features and benefits designed to enhance the commuting experience:
Features
Feature | Description |
Nationwide Acceptance | Accepted at more than 480 toll plazas on national and state highways, ensuring extensive use. |
Validity | The FASTag is valid for five years and provides long-term convenience. |
Easy Recharge Options | Users can recharge their FASTag accounts online using UPI, net banking, credit/debit cards, or mobile banking applications such as IDFC First Bank World. |
Dedicated Customer Support | 24/7 customer care service is available at 1800 10888 for any queries or assistance. |
Online Portal Access | Customers can access their transaction history, recharge their account, and manage their FASTag through the First Bank dedicated online portal. |
Benefit | Description |
Time Savings | Allows nearly continuous passage through toll plazas, considerably saving travel time. |
Fuel Savings | Reduces fuel usage by limiting idle time at toll booths. |
Cashless Transactions | It eliminates the need for cash payments at toll plazas, encouraging digital transactions. |
SMS Alerts | Provides quick SMS notifications for each toll transaction, assisting with expense tracking. |
Environmental Impact | Reduces automotive emissions due to less idling, which contributes to a greener environment. |
IDFC First Bank provides both online and offline avenues for customers to obtain a FASTag. Below is a detailed comparison of both methods:
Online Method
Offline Method
To apply for an IDFC First Bank FASTag, certain documents are required to verify the applicant's identity and vehicle details. The necessary documents include:
Document Type | Details |
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) | A copy of the vehicle's RC is mandatory to verify ownership and vehicle details. |
Identity Proof | Acceptable documents include: - Aadhaar Card - PAN Card - Voter ID - Passport - Driving License |
Address Proof | If the address is different from the one on the identity proof, provide any of the following: - Utility bills (electricity, water, gas) - Bank statement/passbook - Rental agreement |
Passport-sized Photograph | A recent colour passport-sized photograph of the motor vehicle owner. |
Duly Filled Application Form | The FASTag application form, which is available at IDFC First Bank locations and online, must be completed and signed. |
Understanding the fees and charges associated with the IDFC First Bank FASTag is crucial for effective financial planning. The following table outlines the various charges:
Fee Type | Amount (₹) | Details |
Issuance Fee | ₹100 | A one-time fee for issuing the FASTag. |
Security Deposit | Varies by vehicle class | A refundable deposit is required to ensure tag security. For example: - Car, Jeep, or Van: ₹200 - Light Commercial Vehicle (₹300) - Truck/Bus costs ₹400. |
Minimum Balance/Threshold Amount | Varies by vehicle class | A minimum recharge value is necessary to activate the FASTag. For example: - Car, jeep, or van: ₹100. - Light Commercial Vehicle (₹200) - Truck/Bus costs ₹300. |
Recharge Convenience Fee | Varies by payment mode | A minimal fee may be imposed depending on the recharge method, such as online banking, debit/credit card, or UPI. |
Activating your IDFC First Bank FASTag is a straightforward process:
Recharging your IDFC First Bank FASTag is a simple process, offering multiple methods to ensure uninterrupted travel through toll plazas. Here's how you can recharge your IDFC First Bank FASTag:
IDFC First Bank provides personal customer care to FASTag users, ensuring that all account-related concerns and difficulties are resolved smoothly. Customers can contact us through a variety of methods for help with balance checks, recharge issues, transaction disputes, blacklisted tags, and other FASTag-related concerns.
Support Channel | Details |
Toll-Free Number | 1800 10888 (24x7 Support) |
Email Support | nriservices@idfcfirstbank.com |
Customer Portal | FASTag Portal |
Nearest Branch Support | Visit any IDFC First Bank branch |
Services Offered:
For quick assistance, customers can also log in to the FASTag portal or call the toll-free number.
IDFC First Bank. The FASTag service offers a convenient and efficient method of paying electronic tolls on India's roads. FASTag employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to automate toll collection, minimising queues and fuel consumption at toll plazas. The convenience of recharging through many channels, including the First Bank website, UPI applications, and third-party platforms, ensures that users may easily maintain an adequate balance.
Furthermore, the bank's dedicated customer service, which is accessible via a free toll-free number and email, displays its commitment to quickly resolving user issues.
As India's infrastructure matures, incorporating digital solutions like FASTag not only improves the travel experience but also supports the country's goal of achieving a cashless economy.
IDFC First Bank's proactive approach to integrating technology into vital functions indicates its dedication to customer satisfaction and operational effectiveness.
Can I use a single FASTag for many vehicles?
No, each FASTag is associated with a specific vehicle and cannot be used on many vehicles.
What should I do if my FASTag does not operate at a toll plaza?
Call IDFC First Bank FASTag customer service at 1800 10888 for assistance.
How do I update my vehicle registration number, which is tied to my FASTag?
To update your vehicle details, please contact IDFC First Bank customer care.
Is there a minimum balance with IDFC First Bank FASTag?
Yes, keeping a minimum balance guarantees smooth toll transfers.
Can I move my FASTag balance to another account?
No, FASTag balances cannot be transferred between accounts.
How do I close my IDFC First Bank FASTag account?
Contact customer service to initiate the closure of your FASTag account.
Is there a monthly maintenance fee with FASTag?
No, there are no monthly maintenance fees for the IDFC First Bank FASTag.
What happens if I enter a toll plaza with an insufficient balance?
You may be penalised or obliged to pay the toll fee in cash.
Can I use FASTag to pay for parking?
Currently, FASTag is mostly utilised for toll payments; use for parking is dependent on availability.
Is the FASTag mandatory for two-wheelers?
Currently, it is only necessary for two-wheelers with engine capacities of more than 500cc on expressways.
About the Author
LoansJagat Team
We are a team of writers, editors, and proofreaders with 15+ years of experience in the finance field. We are your personal finance gurus! But, we will explain everything in simplified language. Our aim is to make personal and business finance easier for you. While we help you upgrade your financial knowledge, why don't you read some of our blogs?
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