New Toll Rule : Starting May 1, 2025, a revolutionary change is coming to how Indian commuters pay their tolls. The government has introduced a new rule that will enable toll payments to be automatically deducted from linked debit and credit cards — removing the need for FASTag recharges or physical transactions at toll plazas. This move is aimed at boosting digital convenience, minimizing congestion at toll booths, and ensuring seamless travel for vehicle owners.
Let’s dive into the key details of this new system, who it impacts, how it works, and what you need to do to stay compliant.
What Is the New Toll Payment Rule from May 1?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has announced that toll plazas across the country will start accepting payments directly from passengers’ debit and credit cards. This is a major step forward in India’s push towards digitization and cashless travel infrastructure.
Key Highlights:
- Toll fees to be automatically deducted via debit/credit cards
- Applicable from May 1, 2025, across selected highways
- FASTag system to continue but with enhanced integration
- Card linkage to vehicle registration required
- Reduces congestion and wait times at toll booths
Why Is This New System Being Introduced?
The new rule is part of the National Highway Authority of India’s (NHAI) broader vision to digitize tolling systems and phase out physical barriers in toll collection. It comes in response to increasing complaints about long queues, expired FASTags, and recharge issues.
Goals of the system:
- Increase efficiency at toll plazas
- Encourage adoption of digital payments
- Provide alternate option to FASTag users
- Improve transparency in toll collections
- Minimize manual intervention at booths
How Will the Automatic Toll Deduction Work?
Once implemented, commuters can opt to link their debit or credit cards with their vehicle registration and FASTag account. When your vehicle passes through a toll plaza, the system will detect your vehicle number, verify the card linked, and deduct the toll fee automatically — even if the FASTag has insufficient balance.
Here’s how the system works:
- Vehicle approaches toll booth
- RFID or ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) system detects the vehicle
- Linked card is automatically charged the toll amount
- Receipt is sent via SMS or app notification
Comparison Table: FASTag vs New Card-Based Toll Deduction System
| Feature | FASTag System | New Debit/Credit Card System |
|---|---|---|
| Mode of Payment | Prepaid (linked wallet) | Direct deduction (bank-linked) |
| Requires Recharging | Yes | No |
| Linked to Vehicle Number | Yes | Yes |
| Works Without FASTag Balance | No | Yes |
| SMS Notification | Yes | Yes |
| Bank Integration | Limited | Wide (all major banks supported) |
| Setup Required | Minimal | Needs initial card linking |
| Availability | Nationwide | Initially on select highways |
What You Need to Do Before May 1
To avoid disruptions during your travels, vehicle owners are advised to complete the required steps for linking their cards to their vehicle registrations well before the May 1 deadline.
Steps to follow:
- Visit the official NHAI tolling portal or your bank’s website
- Provide vehicle registration details
- Link your debit or credit card
- Authorize auto-debit agreement
- Receive confirmation via SMS/email
Important Notes:
- Only valid for cards issued in India
- Ensure your card is active for online/auto transactions
- Multiple vehicles can be linked to one card, but each must be registered individually
See more : SBI or Post Office FD
Potential Benefits for Daily Commuters and Transporters
The new system is expected to deliver significant advantages, particularly for daily commuters, truck drivers, and transport businesses.
Benefits include:
- No more recharge-related delays
- Lower chances of toll evasion penalties
- Faster transit time through toll booths
- Reduced fuel consumption from idling
- Improved cash flow management for fleet operators
- Integrated toll expense tracking via bank statements
Table: Impact on Different Types of Vehicle Users
| User Category | Benefit Level | Suggested Action Before May 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Private Car Owners | High | Link personal debit card to vehicle |
| Daily Office Goers | Medium | Link salary account card for ease |
| Commercial Drivers | Very High | Register card via fleet manager/company |
| Transport Companies | Very High | Bulk link all vehicles through dashboard |
| Inter-State Buses | High | Set up recurring payments |
| Rural Vehicle Owners | Low Initially | Continue with FASTag, wait for expansion |
| Non-Card Holders | Not Applicable | Continue using FASTag or buy linked card |
What Happens If You Don’t Link Your Card?
While the new card-based system is optional for now, it may eventually become mandatory in the future. If you fail to link your card before May 1:
- You can still use FASTag, but recharges are mandatory
- If both FASTag and card fail, manual toll collection may be applied with added charges
- Possible delays in crossing toll plazas
- Missed opportunity to experience faster processing
Government and NHAI Clarifications
To address public concerns, the government has released a few clarifications:
- This system does not replace FASTag, it complements it
- No additional charges will be levied on card transactions
- Only consent-based card linkages will be allowed
- Data protection measures are being implemented
- All major banks are on board for integration
India’s road infrastructure is steadily moving towards a smarter, more digitized future — and the new toll payment system launching from May 1 is a giant leap in that direction. With automatic debit and credit card deductions, road travel is expected to become smoother, quicker, and hassle-free for millions. While FASTag will still be in use, this new layer of convenience is especially useful for those who face constant issues with recharging or wallet limits.
The above information is based on the latest press releases and policy briefs from MoRTH and NHAI as of April 2025. Implementation may vary regionally and users are advised to check the official NHAI portal or their bank’s website for detailed steps and updates.
