NHAI Streamlines FASTag Process by Eliminating KYV Requirement for Vehicles
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a significant update to the FASTag system, aimed at enhancing convenience for millions of vehicle owners across the country. In a move designed to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and expedite toll transactions, NHAI will discontinue the mandatory Know Your Vehicle (KYV) process for new FASTag applications on cars, jeeps, and vans, effective from February 1, 2026.
Simplifying Toll Payments for Everyday Commuters
This strategic decision is expected to cut down on unnecessary delays and create a more seamless experience for daily highway users. Previously, vehicle owners were often subjected to KYV checks even after their FASTag had been issued and activated. These post-activation verifications frequently led to complications, including delayed refunds and the need for repeated follow-ups, despite owners having already submitted valid registration documents during the initial FASTag purchase.
The revised procedure shifts the responsibility of vehicle verification to the banks that issue FASTags. Under the new framework, banks will conduct all necessary checks at the time of activation itself. Consequently, once a FASTag is issued and activated, users will no longer be required to undergo the KYV process again. NHAI anticipates that this change will make the overall system faster, more reliable, and significantly easier for motorists to navigate.
Impact on Existing FASTag Holders and Specific Scenarios
Importantly, this update is not limited to new applications. It also applies to existing FASTags that have already been issued for cars, jeeps, and vans. Routine KYV checks will be completely eliminated for these vehicle categories. Verification will now only be mandated in specific, exceptional circumstances, such as complaints related to loose FASTags, incorrect issuance, or suspected misuse of the tag. In the absence of such issues, car owners can enjoy uninterrupted toll payments without any additional bureaucratic checks.
This policy revision marks a proactive step by NHAI to address long-standing grievances of vehicle owners and streamline the digital toll collection ecosystem in India. By reducing procedural redundancies, the authority aims to foster a more user-friendly environment that supports the growing adoption of cashless transactions on national highways.
