FASTag Alert: NHAI Warns of Blacklisting Over Tag-in-Hand Use; Everything You Need To Know

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a strict warning to FASTag users across India. According to recent reports, using FASTag incorrectly especially in "tag-in-hand" mode could lead to blacklisting of your FASTag, causing major inconvenience at toll plazas.

What Is the New FASTag Rule?

Under the updated guidelines, FASTags must be properly affixed on the vehicle's windscreen. Carrying the FASTag in hand and presenting it at toll booths a practice followed by some users is now strictly discouraged.

Authorities have clarified that FASTag must be pasted on the front windshield, the Tag-in-hand usage can lead to blacklisting. Toll agencies have been instructed to report such misuse.

Why Is NHAI Cracking Down?

The move has been taken to improve the efficiency of the RFID-based FASTag system. When FASTags are not fixed properly, scanners fail to detect them automatically, leading to delays and congestion.

Key reasons behind the rule is to ensure seamless RFID scanning and to reduce long queues at toll plazas. It will also prevent misuse and fraudulent practices and improve overall highway traffic flow.

Improper FASTag usage has been one of the major causes of bottlenecks, especially during peak travel hours.

What Happens If Your FASTag Is Blacklisted?

If your FASTag gets blacklisted due to improper usage, you may face denial of FASTag-based toll payment. Double toll charges at plazas will be applicable and it will be needed to reactivate or replace the tag.

So, The solution is straightforward Paste your FASTag firmly on the windscreen and Ensure it is visible and not damaged and avoid removing or handling it manually at toll booths By following these steps, users can avoid issues related to fastag blacklisting and enjoy smooth travel.

How to check if my FASTag is blacklisted

You can check FASTag blacklisting in three quick ways: log in to your issuer bank's FASTag portal or app, check the NPCI/NETC status portal using your vehicle number or FASTag ID, or call customer care for the issuer. Many issuers also send SMS or email alerts when a tag goes blocked or low-balance, so those notifications are worth checking too.

Fastest ways to check

Open your FASTag issuer's app or website and look for status terms like active, inactive, blocked, or blacklisted.
Visit the NETC/NPCI status page and enter your vehicle registration number or FASTag ID to see the current tag status.

If your tag is NHAI/IHMCL-linked, check the NHAI FASTag portal and review any KYC or balance alerts.
A blacklisted FASTag may show as blocked, dormant, inactive, or hotlisted depending on the issuer. If it's blacklisted, toll plazas may reject it, so you should fix the underlying issue quickly, such as low balance, KYC mismatch, or improper tag placement.