Indian highways are increasingly toll-based, and FASTag has been mandatory for all vehicles since 2021. If you're renting a self-drive car, understanding how toll charges work with your rental is essential to avoid surprises. Here's the complete FASTag and toll guide for rental cars in India.
What is FASTag?
FASTag is an RFID-based electronic toll collection system mandated by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). It's a small sticker affixed to the windshield that automatically deducts toll charges when you pass through toll plazas at highway speed — no stopping, no cash, no queues.
Do Rental Cars Come with FASTag?
Yes. All Brothers Car Rental vehicles come with an active, pre-loaded FASTag affixed to the windshield. You don't need to buy, apply, or load a FASTag yourself. Simply drive through the FASTag lane at any toll plaza, and the toll is deducted automatically.
Who Pays the Toll Charges?
Toll charges incurred during your rental period are your responsibility. Here's how it works:
- During your trip: Tolls are automatically deducted from the car's FASTag as you pass through toll plazas.
- At vehicle return: The total FASTag toll expenditure during your rental period is calculated and charged to you at the time of return, deducted from your security deposit or charged separately.
Toll Costs for Popular Routes
| Route | Distance | Approximate Toll (Car, One Way) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi → Jaipur | 280 km | ₹500-600 |
| Delhi → Agra (Yamuna Exp) | 230 km | ₹740 |
| Delhi → Chandigarh | 260 km | ₹400-500 |
| Delhi → Dehradun | 255 km | ₹350-450 |
| Delhi → Haridwar | 215 km | ₹300-400 |
| Chandigarh → Manali | 310 km | ₹200-300 |
| Delhi → Shimla | 350 km | ₹500-600 |
FASTag Tips for Renters
- Stay in the FASTag lane: Always use the dedicated FASTag lane at toll plazas. Cash lanes may charge double for FASTag-equipped vehicles.
- Check the beep: You'll hear a beep and see a green indicator when the toll is successfully deducted. If the barrier doesn't lift, don't reverse — call the toll plaza attendant.
- Track your tolls: You can request a toll summary at vehicle return to verify all charges.
- Toll-free routes: Many city roads (Ring Road in Delhi, expressways within city limits) are toll-free. Only national and state highways charge tolls.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the FASTag balance runs out during my trip?
Brothers maintains adequate balance on all FASTags. If you're on an exceptionally long trip (1,000+ km), contact us to ensure sufficient balance. In the unlikely event the balance is low, the toll plaza will allow you through and the charge will be debited when the balance is replenished.
Are there any toll-free highways in India?
Some recently constructed highways offer toll-free periods during their initial years. State highways may have lower toll rates. City ring roads and peripheral expressways are generally toll-free.
Can I use my personal FASTag with a rental car?
No. FASTag is linked to the vehicle's registration number, not to the driver. You must use the FASTag provided with the rental car.
Do toll charges apply to return journeys?
Most toll plazas charge both ways. However, the return toll is typically 50-70% of the one-way charge if you return within 24 hours through the same plaza (round-trip discount).
How much should I budget for tolls?
As a rule of thumb, budget ₹2-3 per kilometre for toll charges on national highways. For a 500 km round trip, expect ₹1,000-1,500 in total tolls. The exact amount depends on the specific route and number of toll plazas.
All our cars are FASTag-ready. Just drive.
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