FASTag Rule Change: The Central Government has amended the rules regarding exemption-category FASTags to make the toll exemption facility more accessible and convenient for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the new guidelines will come into effect on October 2, 2026.

The government stated that the objective of these changes is to bring uniformity to the FASTag issuance process across the country and to relieve beneficiaries from repetitive formalities.

**What has changed under the new rules?**
Under the new rules, exemption-category FASTags will be issued for vehicles specially designed and manufactured for use by physically disabled persons, as well as for vehicles registered in the 'PwD' ownership category, based on the percentage of disability. This will be determined using the disability percentage recorded in the disability certificate, Unique Disability ID (UDID) card, or other valid documents.

Previously, PwDs were required to renew their exemption-category FASTags annually. Under the new system, the validity will be directly linked to the percentage of disability.

According to the revised guidelines, an exemption-category FASTag issued to individuals with a disability of 70% to 100% will be valid for 5 years. For beneficiaries with a disability of 40% or more but less than 70%, the FASTag validity will be 3 years. Upon the expiry of the specified period, beneficiaries will be able to renew their FASTags subject to eligibility and the provisions of the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008.

**What did the government say?**
The government states that the new system will make the national highway tolling system more accessible, transparent, and user-friendly for Persons with Disabilities. It will also ensure that toll exemptions are granted strictly in accordance with the prescribed rules and eligibility criteria. Meanwhile, the government recently announced that the FASTag Annual Pass, launched on August 15 last year, has crossed the milestone of 10 million users.

This facility is available for non-commercial vehicles and can be activated by paying a lump-sum fee via the highway travel app. The Annual Pass offers validity for one year or up to 200 toll plaza crossings for a one-time payment of ₹3,075, thereby reducing the need for frequent FASTag recharges.