FASTag Toll Rules: NHAI Lists Who Is Eligible for Exemption and Discounts?

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued a clear clarification on toll exemptions and discounts applicable on national highways under the FASTag system. The move comes after repeated confusion and disputes at toll plazas, with many road users assuming they are eligible for toll-free travel without meeting the prescribed criteria.

According to NHAI, toll collection, exemptions and concessions are governed strictly by the National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and Collection) Rules, 2008. Only those categories specifically mentioned in the rules are eligible, and exemptions apply only when all conditions are fulfilled.

FASTag Toll Rules: Who Is Fully Exempt From Paying Toll?

Full toll exemption is limited to a narrow group of vehicles and individuals listed under Rule 11 of the 2008 rules. These include vehicles transporting or accompanying constitutional authorities and senior public office holders such as 

• President
• Vice-President
• Prime Minister
• Governors
• Chief Ministers
• Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts

State legislators are eligible for exemption only within their respective states and must carry valid identity proof. Vehicles carrying foreign dignitaries on official state visits are also exempt.

Will FASTag Toll Rules Apply to Defence Personnel?

Defence and security-related exemptions apply only when vehicles are used for official duty. This covers vehicles of the Ministry of Defence, armed forces, paramilitary forces and police personnel in uniform. Emergency service vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines and funeral vans are also exempt.

What Type of Vehicles Will Also Qualify for FASTag Toll Rules?

In addition, vehicles deployed by NHAI or authorised government agencies for inspection, survey, construction, operation or maintenance of national highways qualify for toll exemption. Vehicles specially designed for persons with physical disabilities are also covered.

What Discounts Are Available Under FASTag?

While full exemptions are limited, certain toll concessions are available for regular and local users. Under Rule 9, non-commercial vehicle owners residing within 20 kilometres of a toll plaza can apply for a monthly concessional pass if no service road or alternative route exists.

Vehicles registered within a specific district may also be eligible for a 50% toll concession at plazas located within that district, subject to eligibility checks and exclusions. All such discounts are linked to FASTag and require document verification by the toll operator.

Read more: SBI Salary Account Package for Central Government Employees: Key Benefits Explained.

Conclusion

FASTag-based toll exemptions and discounts are strictly regulated and apply only to clearly defined categories under existing rules. NHAI’s clarification aims to reduce confusion, prevent misuse and ensure smoother toll operations. Road users are advised to verify eligibility carefully and comply with the notified rules to avoid disputes at toll plazas.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.