FASTag Replacement: Charges, Steps, and Bank‑Wise Guide

FASTag has made toll payments hassle-free in India and has replaced cash queues with quick and contactless payments. It is convenient and now mandatory when one uses highways.

But just as any physical sticker embedded with RFID technology is prone to everyday annoyances—the sticker gets scratched, gets worn out over time, loses adhesiveness, or simply goes missing—the FASTag is no exception. When it does happen, motorists are left fretting: Do I now need a new tag, or can my existing one simply be renewed?

Replacement is a trouble-free, affordable procedure regardless of whether your FASTag is of IHMCL, HDFC, ICICI, SBI, IDFC FIRST, Airtel Payments Bank, or any other authorized supplier. You aren’t charged new joining fees or deposits but rather pay a nominal reissue charge (₹100–₹200), and a new tag is delivered by mail to your home.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know in 2025: when to replace vs. when to change issuers, step-by-step replacement processes, bank-by-bank fees, forms required, activation recommendations, troubleshooting FAQs, and quick reference tables. 

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to keep your FASTag active and avoid unexpected toll hassles on your next trip.

In 2025, replacing your FASTag is a simple online process, whether through the IHMCL portal or your issuing bank’s app. 

All you need to do is select the “Replace my tag” option, confirm your vehicle details, and pay the small replacement fee, which usually falls in the ₹100–₹200 range. 

Once the request is approved, a fresh tag is dispatched to your registered address for easy installation. 

A key advantage is that you don’t have to pay the security deposit again — that amount is charged only once when you first join the FASTag system or when you switch issuers. 

This makes replacement a quick, affordable way to keep your vehicle toll-ready without unnecessary extra costs.

Replace your FASTag if:

• It is damaged (scratched, peeling, or not readable by scanners).
• It has been lost or stolen.
• The adhesive has failed and it won’t stick properly.
• The chip inside has stopped working after years of use.

Switch issuers only if:

• You are unhappy with your current bank’s service.
• You want to move to a bank that offers better recharge options, cashback, or lower fees.
• Your current issuer has permanently blocked the tag.

Important Reminder: If you decide to change your FASTag issuer, the first step is to close your existing FASTag account and clear any pending dues. 

Only after the old tag is deactivated can you apply for a new one with another bank or provider. As per NHAI regulations, a vehicle cannot have multiple active FASTags linked to the same registration number. 

Always ensure the old tag is fully closed before moving to a new issuer.

If your FASTag is issued directly by IHMCL/NHAI, the replacement is straightforward:

• Log in to your account at the IHMCL FASTag portal.
• In the left-hand panel, click “Replace my tag.”
• Follow the on-screen instructions, confirm your vehicle details, and pay the nominal replacement fee (commonly ₹100 incl. GST).
• The system processes your request, and you will receive a new tag by courier/post.
• Affix it as per the enclosed instructions — the security deposit is not deducted again.

Issuer-specific Replacement Flows

Each bank and payments provider has its own FASTag portal/app, but the generic flow is similar:

• Log in to the issuer app or portal.
• Go to Manage FASTag / Services / Replacement.
• Select the tag/vehicle number for which replacement is required.
• Provide the reason (damaged, lost, adhesive issue).
• Pay the applicable replacement fee.
• Wait for delivery and affix the new tag.

Below are some popular issuer-specific details.

1. HDFC FASTag replacement — charges and steps

• Login: HDFC Bank FASTag portal or mobile banking app.
• Go to “FASTag > Manage Tags > Replace”.
• Submit the request with the vehicle RC details.
• Charges: Usually ₹100–₹200 (check latest HDFC FASTag charges page).
• Delivery: Typically 5–7 working days.

2. ICICI FASTag replacement — charges and steps

• Login: ICICI FASTag web portal or iMobile app.
• Select “Service Requests > Tag Replacement”.
• Choose the affected tag and submit.
• Charges: Around ₹100 replacement fee + GST.
• Courier tracking is available in the app.

3. IDFC FIRST FASTag replacement — charges and steps

• Login: IDFC FIRST FASTag portal.
• Navigate to “Replace Tag” under account options.
• Published fee: ₹100 (including GST).
• Delivery window: 5–10 working days depending on location.

4. SBI FASTag replacement — charges and steps

• Login: SBI FASTag portal.
• Go to Manage FASTag > Replace Tag.
• Enter details, pay fee.
• Charges: SBI typically aligns with industry average (~₹100–₹150), but can vary.
• The old tag should be removed before applying the new one.

5. Airtel Payments Bank FASTag replacement — charges and steps

• Login: Airtel Thanks app > FASTag section.
• Tap “Manage Tag” > Replacement.”
• Pay fee via Airtel wallet or linked bank account.
• Charges: ~₹100–₹150.
• Delivery: 5–8 working days.

Replacing a FASTag is far more economical than applying for a completely new one. Most banks and issuers charge only a nominal replacement fee, typically between ₹100 and ₹200, though in rare cases it can go up to ₹300 depending on the provider. 

The good news is that your security deposit is not charged again when you request a replacement — it continues from your existing account. 

Similarly, the one-time joining fee is applicable only to new customers or when you decide to switch issuers altogether. 

This makes replacement the most cost-effective choice for damaged, lost, or unreadable tags, allowing you to get back on the road quickly without incurring unnecessary extra charges.

Bank-wise snapshot (2025)

Issuer	Replacement Fee (approx.)	Where to Initiate	Notes
HDFC Bank	₹100–₹200	HDFC FASTag portal/app	Fee varies with tax
ICICI Bank	~₹100 + GST	ICICI FASTag portal/iMobile app	Courier tracking
IDFC FIRST	₹100 incl. GST	IDFC FASTag portal	Clear timeline published
SBI	₹100–₹150	SBI FASTag portal	Check updated fee list
Airtel Payments Bank	₹100–₹150	Airtel Thanks app	Recharge via wallet
IHMCL/NHAI	₹100 incl. GST	IHMCL portal	No re-deposit required

Documents and Preparation

When making FASTag replacement applications, being prepared will save time and make it go effortlessly. Always keep required documents handy — your vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC), valid ID document such as Aadhaar, PAN, or driving license, and, if you have it, the details of your earlier tag.

You will also have to specify the reason for replacement, if it is on account of damage, loss, or failure of adhesives. Getting it upfront avoids rejection or back-and-forth from your issuer.

When the new tag is received, correct installation is equally significant as is the application procedure. Begin by cleaning the area on the windshield thoroughly to achieve a solid bond. Remove carefully any leftover substance from the previous tag to prevent double scans accidentally at toll locations.

Finally, stick on the new tag at the suggested location — the center-top of the windshield’s interior — firmly pushing it so it is seated properly for error-free toll payments.

Activation and Testing

Once you get your new FASTag, it only requires a few minutes of prompt steps to make it ready for convenient use. Activate the tag with your issuer’s mobile or web interface. It is mostly auto-activated, but some banks require you to do it through manual verification.

Following activation, make sure your wallet or related bank account shows the correct balance and the tag is associated with your registered vehicle number.

It is always a good idea before embarking on a long trip where driving is involved to try the tag at a toll when you have sufficient balance topped up. That way you can ensure the RFID is being scanned properly. 

For added reassurance, keep an eye on your first few transactions within the app and check that deductions are being made and everything is ticking along properly.

Taking these simple precautions secures trouble-free toll payments and quick, convenient trips that are stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What if my tag is lost/stolen?

Immediately block it via your issuer app/portal. This protects your balance. Then request a replacement.

2. Will I be double charged at tolls if the old tag is still stuck?

Yes, if the old tag is still readable. Always remove and destroy the old tag before affixing the new one.

3. Do I pay the security deposit again during replacement?

No. Security deposit is a one-time fee per issuer. Replacement does not need a new deposit.

4. What if I want to change banks?

You must close your old tag and wait for confirmation before applying with a new issuer.

5. How long does replacement take?

Most issuers deliver within 5–10 working days. Tracking details are usually provided.

6. Can I drive without a tag while waiting for replacement?

Yes, but toll plazas will charge you double the toll fee as per NHAI rules for non-FASTag lanes.

Replacement vs Switching

Factor	Replacement	Switching Issuers
Fee	₹100–₹200	New joining + deposit (₹200–₹500+)
Security Deposit	Not charged again	Fresh deposit required
Balance	Retained in same wallet/account	Must close old account
Process	Simple via issuer portal	Closure + new issuance
Timeline	5–10 working days	Longer (depends on both issuers)

Issuer snapshot

Issuer	Fee	Initiation Point	Avg. Delivery
HDFC	₹100–₹200	HDFC portal/app	5–7 days
ICICI	~₹100 + GST	ICICI portal/iMobile app	5–7 days
IDFC FIRST	₹100 incl. GST	IDFC portal	5–10 days
SBI	₹100–₹150	SBI portal	7–10 days
Airtel Bank	₹100–₹150	Airtel Thanks app	5–8 days
IHMCL	₹100 incl. GST	IHMCL portal	7–10 days

Final thoughts

The FASTag replacement system has matured into a smooth, user-friendly process. 

Whether it is facilitated through the IHMCL online portal or your issuing bank app, the process is simple: raise a replacement request, pay a small cost, and receive a new tag within a predictable timeframe.

Every issuer has standardized their rates at the ₹100-₹200 level so costs are always clear and obvious. Unlike switching issuers and closing your former tag account and possibly waiting longer, a straightforward replacement keeps your existing account and gets you back on the road faster.

To ensure your new tag works without disruption, it helps to follow a few best practices:

• Keep key documents handy — such as your RC and ID proof — while raising the request.
• Block lost or stolen tags quickly through your issuer’s portal to prevent misuse of your balance.
• Remove the old tag completely from the windshield so that toll readers do not mistakenly pick up multiple signals.
• Activate and test the new tag well before your next highway trip to confirm smooth functioning.

You will enjoy hassle-free, queue-free payments of tolls and avoid double payments and pointless waiting with these measures. 

FASTag is designed to ease life when you travel, and with immediate replacement, you can continue experiencing its full benefits — smooth travel, clear tolling, and extra sense of reassurance on every drive.For more on FASTag, keep on following Ecozaar.