FASTag Not Working? Reasons and Instant Fix Guide 2026 India

FASTag helps vehicles pass toll plazas without stopping. But when it stops working, drivers face long queues, extra charges, and unnecessary stress.

With India moving towards fully cashless tolling from April 1, 2026, keeping your FASTag active is now essential. This guide explains the main reasons FASTag fails and how to fix it quickly.

Also read→
How to Close or Deactivate South Indian Bank FASTag

Why FASTag Stops Working

Most FASTag problems happen due to small and avoidable issues.

Low Balance in Account

If your FASTag wallet does not have enough balance, toll payment may fail.

Fix:

• Recharge using UPI, bank app, or FASTag app
  
  

• Maintain sufficient balance (₹200+ recommended)
  
  

• Enable auto-recharge if available
  
  

Wrong Placement on Windshield

Incorrect placement blocks RFID signals.

Fix:

• Paste behind the rear-view mirror
  
  

• Clean the glass before sticking
  
  

• Do not remove and re-paste
  
  

Blocked or Inactive FASTag

Blocked FASTags cannot be scanned at toll plazas.

Common reasons:

• Incomplete KYC
  
  

• Long period of inactivity
  
  

• Using multiple FASTags
  
  

• Mismatch in vehicle details

Fix:

• Check status in issuer app
  
  

• Complete KYC
  
  

• Contact customer support

Damaged FASTag Sticker

A torn or faded sticker may stop working.

Fix:

• Request replacement from your bank
  
  

• Install new tag properly

Incorrect Vehicle Information

Wrong RC or number plate data can cause errors.

Fix:

• Update vehicle details
  
  

• Upload documents
  
  

• Re-verify in FASTag system
  
  

How to Fix FASTag Issues Quickly

Follow these simple steps:

1. Check wallet balance
   
   

2. Confirm tag status is “Active”
   
   

3. Inspect sticker condition
   
   

4. Verify RC and number plate details
   
   

5. Contact issuer customer care
   
   

Most problems are resolved within 24–48 hours.

What If Money Is Deducted but Gate Doesn’t Open?

Sometimes payment is deducted, but the barrier does not open.

What to Do

• Save SMS or app alert
  
  

• Keep toll receipt
  
  

• Raise complaint in app or website
  
  

• Track refund status
  
  

Refunds are typically processed within 3–10 working days, though timelines may vary.

Penalties If FASTag Is Not Working in 2026

Authorities are now strict about digital toll payments.

Current Rules

• Cash payment (where allowed): Up to 2× toll
  
  

• UPI without FASTag: Around 1.25× toll
  
  

• Invalid FASTag: Delay or restricted entry

Repeated violations may lead to blacklisting.

2026 Cashless Toll Update

From April 1, 2026, national highways will follow:

• No cash lanes
  
  

• Only FASTag or UPI accepted
  
  

• Automatic penalty system
  
  

• Faster vehicle movement
  
  

Vehicles without valid FASTag may be denied entry or face heavy penalties.

Tips to Keep FASTag Working Smoothly

Follow these simple habits:

• Maintain sufficient balance
  
  

• Avoid touching the sticker
  
  

• Use only one FASTag per vehicle
  
  

• Complete KYC on time
  
  

• Replace damaged tags early
  
  

These steps prevent most common failures.

Common FASTag Mistakes to Avoid

Many users face problems due to:

• Using multiple tags
  
  

• Re-pasting old stickers
  
  

• Ignoring low-balance alerts
  
  

• Buying unofficial FASTags
  
  

• Skipping KYC updates
  
  

Avoiding these mistakes saves time and money.

How Parksmart Helps in Smart Parking

Modern parking facilities are now integrating FASTag and RFID-based systems.

Parksmart provides automatic boom barriers and smart parking solutions for smooth vehicle entry, exit, and billing.

Their systems reduce congestion and improve parking management in commercial and residential spaces.

Conclusion

FASTag problems usually occur due to low balance, wrong placement, blocked status, or damaged stickers. Thankfully, most issues can be fixed easily with basic checks.

With fully cashless tolling in effect from 2026, maintaining an active FASTag is no longer optional; it is necessary for hassle-free travel.

For better parking control and seamless vehicle movement, Parksmart boom barriers and smart parking solutions offer reliable support.

Also read→
How to Close or Deactivate Airtel Bank FASTag Easily

Disclaimer

Information in this article is based on official guidelines and public sources as of 2026. Rules and processes may change over time. Always check your issuer’s app, NHAI, or IHMCL platforms for the latest updates.