FASTag, the electronic toll collection system, has become a mandatory
requirement for most vehicles on Indian highways. However, certain vehicles are exempted from this requirement due
to their nature or purpose. Understanding the FASTag exemption list will let you know if your vehicle falls under
this category.
What is an exempted FASTag?
An exempted FASTag is issued to vehicles that are not required to pay tolls at national highways, based on government
directives. These vehicles can pass through toll booths but still need to display an exempted FASTag for
record-keeping purposes. This ensures that the system identifies these vehicles and processes them correctly at toll
plazas. Such vehicles fall under the FASTag exemption list.
List of vehicles exempted from FASTag
- Vehicles used by the President, Prime Minister and other dignitaries
- Ambulances and funeral vans
- Armed forces vehicles, including those of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force
- Government and official vehicles on duty
- Fire trucks and rescue vehicles
- Police vehicles
- Road construction and maintenance vehicles
- Vehicles of state and central legislators
Documents needed for FASTag exemption
- Registration certificate (RC) of the vehicle that needs an exempted FASTag
- Identity proof of the owner / driver (Aadhaar, passport, etc.)
- Official government authorisation for exemption (if applicable)
- Proof of exemption category (e.g., armed forces ID, government duty order)
Steps to apply for exempted FASTag
If you are eligible for a FASTag exemption, you can apply online through the National Highways Authority of India
(NHAI) or authorised banks.
- Visit the official portal or the authorised bank’s website, where the exempted FASTag application is available.
- Fill in the required details.
- Upload the necessary documents.
- Submit the application form.
- You will receive a confirmation after successful submission.
What is the validity of exempted FASTag?
The validity of an exempted FASTag typically lasts for 5 years, similar to a regular FASTag. However, this validity
can vary depending on the exemption category. For example, vehicles on government duty or armed forces may have a
shorter validity based on the duration of their assignment or specific duty orders.
How to check the application status of exempted FASTag?
- Visit the issuing bank's website or portal where you submitted your application.
- Go to 'Track Application'.
- Enter your application number or vehicle registration number.
- Click on 'Check Status'. This will give you the updated status of your exempted FASTag application.
Conclusion
If your vehicle qualifies for a FASTag exemption, it’s crucial to apply for an exempted FASTag online to avoid delays
at toll plazas. For a convenient way to get started, you can explore the Axis Bank FASTag portal. It has
an easy process for applying for both regular and exempted FASTags.
Also Read:
Understand how FASTag works -7 steps
FAQs
Who is exempted from FASTag?
Vehicles like ambulances, fire trucks, police vehicles and those used by dignitaries such as the President, Prime
Minister and armed forces are exempted from paying tolls but still require a FASTag for identification.
Is FASTag free for defense personnel?
Yes, defense personnel can apply for an exempted FASTag without any charges if the vehicle is registered under the
armed forces. This FASTag covers toll fees but is still required for record-keeping purposes.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.