In today’s world, where digital payments are the norm, FASTag has revolutionized toll payments across India. As an electronic toll collection system, FASTag eliminates the need to stop at toll booths, making the entire toll-paying process quick and hassle-free.
It uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to enable smooth, contactless payments. However, many drivers often face issues such as FASTag errors at toll plazas despite their convenience. These issues can disrupt travel plans and cause delays.
This article aims to guide you through fixing common FASTag errors that you may encounter at toll plazas and help ensure your road trips remain smooth and uninterrupted.
What is a FASTag?
FASTag is an electronic device that allows vehicles to pay tolls electronically without stopping at toll booths. Attached to the vehicle’s windshield, the tag is linked to the owner’s prepaid account. When you pass through a toll plaza, the RFID scanner detects the FASTag, deducts the toll amount from your account, and opens the boom barrier. The key benefits of FASTag are:
- Convenience: No need to carry cash for tolls.
- Time-Saving: The toll process is automated, reducing waiting times.
- Transparency: It provides digital receipts for toll payments.
- Environmentally Friendly: Fewer vehicles idling at toll plazas result in reduced fuel consumption and pollution.
Despite its benefits, FASTag can sometimes malfunction or display errors, leading to inconveniences. Let’s explore some common errors and how to fix them.
Common FASTag Errors at Toll Plazas

While using FASTag at toll plazas, various errors can occur. Below are some of the most common issues that users face:
a) Transaction Failure/Error Message
This is one of the most common issues that users face when using FASTag. If the toll scanner doesn’t detect your FASTag or if there is a communication problem, you may see an error message or transaction failure on the toll booth screen.
b) Insufficient Balance
A low or empty balance in your FASTag account is another frequent error. If the account linked to your FASTag doesn’t have enough funds to cover the toll, the transaction will fail, causing a delay in your journey.
c) Incorrect Tag Recognition
Sometimes, the toll plaza system may not recognize your FASTag or read it incorrectly. This issue could happen if your FASTag is placed improperly, has dirt or stickers blocking the sensor, or is damaged in any way.
d) FASTag Malfunction
In rare cases, the FASTag itself may malfunction. This could be due to a manufacturing defect, damage to the tag’s chip, or RFID system issues. Such issues typically lead to the scanner not being able to detect or read the FASTag.
How to Fix Fastag Error at Toll Plazas: Steps to Fix FASTag Errors
When encountering a FASTag error at a toll plaza, here are a few steps to follow that can help you resolve the issue efficiently:
a) Check for Sufficient Balance
One of the first things you should do when facing an error is to check if your FASTag balance is sufficient to pay the toll. Many users forget to top up their FASTag account, leading to an insufficient balance error.
- How to check your balance: You can check your balance through mobile apps such as MyFASTag (official app), your bank’s app, or via SMS. Alternatively, you can visit your bank’s website or call customer service for assistance.
- Top up your FASTag: If the balance is low, you can recharge the tag online through your bank’s website, mobile app, or third-party recharge platforms.
b) Ensure Proper Placement of FASTag
Incorrect placement of the FASTag is another common reason for scanning issues. The FASTag must be affixed on the vehicle’s windshield at a specific location for optimal performance. Usually, this is on the top middle portion of the windshield.
- Positioning: Ensure that the FASTag is not obstructed by any objects, such as stickers or dirt, and that it is firmly attached to the glass.
- Avoid interferences: Make sure there are no metallic objects near the FASTag as these can interfere with the RFID signal.
c) Clean the FASTag
A dirty or damaged FASTag may not work properly. Over time, dust, dirt, and environmental factors can accumulate on the surface of the tag, affecting its functionality. In some cases, a sticker or residue from a previously used tag might be obstructing the sensor.
- Cleaning: Gently clean the FASTag with a soft cloth to remove dust or dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rough clothes that could damage the tag.
- Check for damage: If you find any cracks or damage to the tag, it’s best to replace it.
d) Restart the Vehicle
At times, the issue could be related to a temporary glitch with the vehicle’s electrical system, which may affect the FASTag’s reading.
- Restarting: Simply turn off the engine and restart the vehicle to reset any electronic systems that might be interfering with the FASTag’s functionality. This action can help clear up minor errors or glitches.
Check your fastag balance with vehicle number
e) Visit the Toll Plaza Customer Service
If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, you can approach the toll plaza’s customer service for assistance. The staff can manually check your FASTag and transaction history to identify any problems.
- Provide necessary details: You may be asked to show your vehicle registration, FASTag account details, and proof of payment.
- Get immediate support: If the error is related to the toll plaza system or scanner, the customer service team will usually be able to resolve the issue quickly.
f) Replacing or Updating Your FASTag
If none of the above steps work, it’s possible that your FASTag is faulty or expired. In such cases, you will need to replace or update your FASTag.
- Replacement: You can visit your bank’s branch or the issuing agency to request a replacement tag.
- Updating: If your FASTag is expired, make sure to renew it before your next trip. Some tags have an expiry date, and you may need to update your account information to keep the tag functional.
Preventing FASTag Errors
While resolving FASTag issues is important, taking preventative measures can help avoid errors in the first place.
a) Regular Checks on Your FASTag Account
Make it a habit to regularly monitor your FASTag account to ensure that the balance is adequate. Keeping a close eye on your account will help you avoid the inconvenience of insufficient balance at toll plazas.
b) Renewing the Tag in Time
FASTags typically have an expiry date, and failing to renew them could lead to errors. Always check the validity of your tag and renew it before it expires to avoid unnecessary problems.
c) Proper Tag Maintenance
Ensure your FASTag remains in good condition. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods, and prevent scratches or physical damage to the tag.
d) Avoiding Multiple Tags
Using multiple FASTags on a single vehicle can cause conflicts and errors. Ensure only one FASTag is linked to your vehicle at a time.
What to Do if the Issue Persists
If your FASTag issues continue even after following all the above steps, here’s what you can do:
a) Contacting Your Bank or FASTag Issuer
If the problem persists, it may be time to reach out to your bank or the agency that issued your FASTag. They can help troubleshoot the issue, verify account details, and determine if the tag needs to be replaced.
- Provide all relevant details like your vehicle registration number and FASTag number.
b) Requesting a Refund
In some cases, you may have been charged incorrectly at a toll plaza. If the toll transaction failed but you were charged, contact your FASTag issuer to request a refund. Provide the relevant details, including the toll booth location, time, and your FASTag account information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my FASTag not working at the toll plaza?
Possible reasons include insufficient balance, inactive or blacklisted FASTag, improper installation on the windshield, or technical issues with the toll plaza scanner.
What should I do if my FASTag shows a low balance error?
Recharge your FASTag account immediately through banking apps, UPI, or FASTag provider portals to maintain the required minimum balance.
How can I resolve a double deduction or incorrect charge on my FASTag?
Contact your FASTag issuer’s customer care and provide transaction details for dispute resolution. Most providers also have an online grievance system.
My FASTag is active, but the toll gate doesn’t detect it. What should I do?
Ensure the FASTag is properly placed on the windshield. If the issue persists, request manual scanning or pay in cash and raise a complaint with your FASTag issuer.
What if my FASTag gets blacklisted at a toll booth?
FASTags are blacklisted due to low balance or security reasons. Contact your issuing bank or recharge the account to reactivate it.
Conclusion
FASTag has made toll payments more convenient and efficient, but errors can sometimes cause frustration. By following the steps outlined above, you can fix most common issues quickly.
Remember to regularly check your FASTag balance, maintain your tag properly, and ensure that it is correctly positioned to avoid problems. By staying proactive, you can ensure a smooth and seamless travel experience every time you use FASTag.