How to Deactivate a FASTag account?

Ever since its inception, FASTag has transformed the landscape of highway travel in India. Despite the ensemble of benefits it offers, such as streamlined toll booth experiences, cashless transactions, and fuel savings, there may arise certain situations where you might want to deactivate your FASTag account.

In this blog, we will guide you through the simple process of deactivating your FASTag account. By the end of this blog, you will learn how to log in to your FASTag account on the designated platform, locate the option to deactivate or close your account, and follow the provided instructions, which may include filling out a deactivation form.

Once you've completed these steps you can confirm your deactivation request and experience the flexibility of effortlessly managing your FASTag account. In addition to this, we'll also help you navigate the FASTag reactivation process. Let's get started!

What is a FASTag?

A FASTag is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) method developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It is a passive tag attached to the windscreen of your vehicle that enables you to drive through toll plazas and make a digital payment, eliminating the need to stop at tolls.

With over 6.4 crore FASTags issued as of January 2023, the Government of India generated a total of ₹50,855 crore in toll collection in 2022. This is a major jump from the previous ₹34,778 crore revenue or an increase of about 46% as compared to the toll collection in 2021. 

Apart from making toll payments seamless, it serves as your financial log, documenting all the toll payments and recharges you've made using this convenient digital payment method. 

Why is it Important to Deactivate a Fastag Account?

Deactivating your FASTag account might come in handy in several scenarios to prevent unauthorised usage and potential financial implications. Here are some of the primary reasons why deactivating your FASTag account is important:

1. Selling or Transferring Ownership

• When you sell or transfer the ownership of your vehicle, it's important to deactivate your FASTag account linked to that vehicle
• If you fail to do so, the new owner may continue using your FASTag account, leading to unauthorised charges on your account

2. Lost or Damaged FASTag

• If your FASTag is lost or damaged, deactivating your account immediately is crucial to prevent any misuse
• This will safeguard your linked bank account or prepaid wallet from unauthorised transactions

3. Change in Vehicle Registration

• In case your vehicle registration has changed due to relocation or other reasons, deactivating your old FASTag account and activating a new one with the updated registration details is essential
• This ensures that toll charges are accurately associated with your current vehicle registration

4. Avoiding Duplicate Charges

• If you have multiple FASTags associated with your vehicle, deactivating the ones you no longer use will prevent duplicate toll charges from being deducted from your linked accounts

Also Read: How to Recharge and Check Fastag Balance

Ways to Deactivate a Fastag Account?

Deactivating your FASTag account is an easy process and can be done either online or offline. Here's a detailed breakdown for each method:

Online Deactivation Through FASTag Issuer's Website or App

• Visit the FASTag issuer's website or app
• This could be the website of your bank or an e-commerce platform where you purchased your FASTag
• Use your registered credentials and log in to your FASTag account 
• Locate the "Deactivation" option
• Navigate to the "Account Management" or "Service Request" section and find the option to deactivate your FASTag account
• Select the FASTag account you want to deactivate
• Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the deactivation process
• You may need to provide additional information for verification purposes
• Review the details carefully and confirm your request to deactivate your FASTag account
• Once the deactivation is complete, you will receive a confirmation message or email acknowledging the closure of your FASTag account

Offline Deactivation

Now that you know how to deactivate your FASTag account using the online methods, let's take a look at the offline process: 

• Visit a Point of Sale (POS) location such as a bank branch, petrol pump, or toll plaza, that offers FASTag services
• Inform the customer service representative that you want to deactivate your FASTag account
• Share your FASTag ID or vehicle registration number linked to the FASTag you want to deactivate
• Provide your identity proof, such as a PAN card or Aadhaar card, for verification purposes
• The customer service representative will assist you in initiating the deactivation process
• Once the deactivation is complete, you will receive a confirmation receipt or message acknowledging the closure of your FASTag account

In addition to these methods, you can also check the status of your FASTag account using the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) website. Here's how you can do it: 

• Go to the official website of the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
• Navigate to the FASTag section on the website
• Choose the option to deactivate your FASTag account
• Provide your FASTag ID or vehicle registration number linked to the FASTag you want to deactivate
• Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with the deactivation process
• Fill in the unique captcha code 
• Review the information and confirm your request to deactivate your FASTag account
• Once the deactivation is complete, you will receive a confirmation message or email acknowledging the closure of your FASTag account

Also Read: Bharat Series Number Plate: BH Number Plate Eligibility & Benefits

How to Deactivate the FASTag for Different Service Providers?

Different service providers have different ways to deactivate your FASTag account. The following table highlights how you can deactivate your FASTag account for different service providers:

Fastest Way to Close a FASTag Account

The fastest and the most convenient way to close a FASTag account is to deactivate it online through the FASTag issuer's website or app. This method is much quicker than offline deactivation at a POS location as it doesn't require waiting in a queue or physically submitting the paperwork. 

Additionally, online deactivation can be done at any time of day or night from the comfort of your home. On the other hand, the offline deactivation process is cumbersome and is restricted to the operational hours of the POS location.

Also Read: RTO Charges for Registering a Car

How to Reopen a FASTag Account Once It Has Been Closed?

Reopening a FASTag account that has been closed is simpler than you think. It can be done either online or offline. Here's a quick breakdown for each method:

Online Reactivation

• Visit the website or app of the bank or service provider that issued your FASTag
• Use your registered credentials to log in and access your FASTag account
• Navigate to the "Account Management" or "Service Request" section and find the option to reactivate your FASTag account
• Choose the FASTag account you want to reactivate
• Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the reactivation process
• You may need to provide some additional information for verification purposes
• Review the details carefully and confirm your request to reactivate your FASTag account
• Once the reactivation is complete, you will receive a confirmation message or email acknowledging the reopening of your FASTag account

Offline Reactivation

• Visit  a POS location, such as a bank branch, petrol pump, or toll plaza, that offers FASTag services
• Inform the customer service representative that you want to reactivate your FASTag account
• Share your FASTag ID or vehicle registration number linked to the FASTag you want to reactivate
• Provide your identity proof, such as a PAN card or Aadhaar card, for verification purposes
• The customer service representative will assist you in initiating the reactivation process
• Once the reactivation is complete, you will receive a confirmation receipt or message acknowledging the reopening of your FASTag account

Additional Information 

• If you had any outstanding balance on your FASTag account before it was closed, you will need to clear that balance before you can reactivate your account
• In some cases, there may be a reactivation fee associated with reopening a FASTag account, which might vary depending on the FASTag issuer
• Once your FASTag account is reactivated, you will need to recharge it before you can use it to pay tolls
• It is advisable to contact your FASTag issuer directly if you have any questions or concerns about reactivating your account

The Bottom Line 

In conclusion, managing your FASTag account, whether deactivating or reactivating, is a straightforward process with multiple options to suit your convenience. Whether online or offline, the steps provided in this blog would empower you to seamlessly handle your FASTag account, ensuring financial security and preventing unauthorised usage. 

Deactivating your FASTag is crucial in scenarios like selling your vehicle or a lost tag, safeguarding you from unwanted charges. Reactivating, on the other hand, is a hassle-free process, giving you flexibility and control over your toll transactions. 

Remember, the fastest route to close a FASTag account is through online deactivation, offering speed and convenience. Stay informed, and enjoy the ease of managing your highway travel experiences with the FASTag revolution.

FAQs

Q. What happens if I have an outstanding balance on my FASTag account when I close it?

If you have an outstanding balance on your FASTag account when you close it, it's important to clear that balance before you can reactivate the account. Ensure all dues are settled to prevent any complications during the reactivation process.

Q. How to surrender and get a new FASTag?

To surrender your existing FASTag and obtain a new one, visit a Point of Sale (POS) location, such as a bank branch, petrol pump, or toll plaza offering FASTag services. Inform the customer service representative about your intention to surrender the old FASTag and follow their guidance to acquire a new one.

Q. Is it possible to transfer a FASTag balance from one bank to another?

It is not possible to transfer a FASTag balance from one bank to another. Each FASTag is linked to a specific bank or issuer, and balances are associated with the respective accounts. If you change banks, you'll likely need to close the existing account and get a new FASTag from the new bank.

Q. Can I have two FASTag accounts?

No, it's not advisable to have two FASTag accounts for the same vehicle. It can lead to complications, including duplicate toll charges. Stick to a single FASTag account linked to your vehicle for smooth and hassle-free transactions at toll plazas.