How to Apply for FASTag Exemption List? Online Process and Documents

In a bid to alleviate traffic congestion and minimise delays at toll plazas on National Highways (NH) throughout the nation, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has implemented Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) utilising RFID-based FASTag. This system allows vehicles to seamlessly navigate FASTag lanes without needing to halt payment, facilitating a swifter traffic flow. However, there are specific instances where vehicles are exempted from the mandatory use of FASTags. This exemption list ensures a smooth transit experience for certain vehicles.

The Ministry has further specified that a FASTag, designated exempted, will be provided to all vehicle categories outlined as "exempted from paying user fee" according to Rule 11 of the National Highways Fees Rules, 2008. Continue reading this article to discover the application process for an exempted FASTag and the roster of vehicles eligible for FASTag exemption.

Understanding the FASTag Exemption List

The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has outlined a comprehensive FASTag exemption list that includes various categories of vehicles eligible for exemptions from mandatory FASTag usage. Some of the key categories include:

• Emergency Vehicles: Ambulances, fire brigade vehicles, and other emergency service vehicles are exempted from FASTag usage to ensure quick and unimpeded movement during emergencies

• Government Vehicles: Vehicles belonging to central and state government departments and defence and paramilitary vehicles are granted FASTag exemptions

• Enforcement Vehicles: Vehicles used for law enforcement purposes, such as police cars and other authorised enforcement vehicles, are exempted from FASTag requirements

• Vehicles with Diplomatic Corps Plates: Vehicles bearing diplomatic corps plates used by foreign embassies and consulates are also exempt from FASTag usage

• State Transport Buses: State transport buses operated by various state governments fall under the exempted category

• Vehicles of the President of India: The official vehicles of the President of India enjoy FASTag exemptions

Exempted FASTag Vehicles List

By the guidelines, the Ministry has unveiled the compilation of vehicles exempted from user fees at National Highway plazas across India that still require a FASTag sticker. Here is the rundown of exempted vehicle categories:

Documents Required for Exempted FASTag Application

When submitting the FASTag exemption application, you must present the scanned copies of the following documents:

• Duly Filled Application Form
• Identification Proof (I.D. Proof) – Aadhaar, DL, PAN, Govt. I.D. Proof, Voter ID
• Proof of Exemption as applicable
• Registration Certificate (R.C.) of the Vehicle

Steps for Applying for Exempted FASTag Online

Even vehicles exempted from user fees at N.H. toll plazas must have FASTag stickers. This ensures the smooth passage of all vehicles through ETC-operated toll plazas. Additionally, newly acquired ambulances and funeral vehicles can seek FASTag exemption under this classification. According to the N.H. Fee Rule 2008 and subsequent amendments, exempted FASTags will be issued to all vehicles falling into this category without any charge.

To apply for the exempted FASTag online, follow these steps:

• Visit the official Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) website and complete the registration by providing your name, email address, mobile number, and city of residence
• After successful registration, your user I.D. and password will be sent to your email
• Log in to the IHMCL web portal using your username and password
• Download the application form for the exempted FASTag from the dashboard
• Click on "Upload Form"
• Choose the exempted category from the provided table
• Select the relevant NHAI Regional Office (R.O.) for submitting the application
• Enter the exempted applicant's name, mobile number, and email address
• Provide the vehicle registration number for which the exempted FASTag is requested
• Upload scanned copies of the documents
• Click "Submit" to finalise the application; you will receive an auto-reply email containing the Application Case ID

Once you have completed the application process, you must monitor the application status on the web portal. Submit the necessary documents or clarifications for application processing if any observations are noted. Upon approval, you will receive an approval or the issuance of the exempted FASTag details via your registered email. You must then collect the exempted FASTag sticker from the corresponding Regional Office of NHAI.

List of Regional Office of the NHAI

Here is a table showcasing the list of regional offices of the NHAI along with their respective details:

Exempted FASTag Support Contact Details

If you need any help or have questions regarding exempted FASTag, you can contact their support team by emailing them at exemptedfastag@ihmcl.com.

Conclusion

The FASTag exemption list acknowledges the diverse nature of vehicles on Indian roads and ensures a hassle-free experience for those eligible for exemptions. The online process for obtaining exempted FASTags adds convenience and Efficiency to the overall system, contributing to the success of electronic toll collection in the country. Whether for emergency services, government vehicles, or diplomatic missions, the exempted FASTag online process streamlines the toll payment experience for specific categories of vehicles, aligning with the broader goal of a digitally integrated and efficient transportation system in India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Should vehicles exempted from toll fees at N.H. toll plazas be required to attach a FASTag sticker?

A: According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, all vehicle categories exempted from toll fees on National Highways must affix a FASTag RFID sticker to their vehicles.

2. How much does it cost to obtain an exempted FASTag?

A: As per N.H. Fee Rule 2008 and subsequent amendments, exempted FASTags will be issued free of cost.

3. Can I obtain an exempted FASTag from member banks?

A: No, an agency authorised by the NHAI will be the country's sole issuer of exempted FASTags.

4. Can individuals or vehicles exempt from FASTag use still benefit from toll fee exemption?

A: Individuals or vehicles can continue to enjoy toll fee exemption by displaying valid I.D. cards.

5. What is the validity period of an exempted FASTag?

A: An exempted FASTag is valid for five years for government vehicles, whereas it is for one year for private vehicles.

6. What is the validity period of an exempted FASTag for M.P.s, MLAs, and MLCs?

A: The exempted FASTag is valid for the respective tenure of parliament or assembly.