Complete Guide to Deactivate FASTag: Step-by-step guide

Navigating the highways of India has been revolutionized by the introduction of FASTag, making toll payments smooth and hassle-free. However, there might be occasions when you need to deactivate FASTag, such as selling your vehicle or discontinuing its use. While OLX is a great platform for buying and selling cars, understanding the process of deactivating a FASTag is crucial for ensuring a smooth transaction and avoiding unnecessary toll charges. This guide will provide you with detailed instructions on how to deactivate your FASTag, ensuring you’re well-prepared for any changes in your vehicle ownership or usage.

Deactivating FASTag: Everything You Need to Know

You have a magical wallet that pays for things automatically when you shop at your favorite stores, just like Iron Man might use his high-tech gadgets to make his life easier. now what if you were to give away that magical wallet or stop using it?  You’d want to make sure it stops spending your money, right? That’s exactly why sometimes you need to turn off your FASTag.

Deactivating your FASTag is important because it helps prevent anyone else from using your money without your permission. This is especially crucial if you decide to sell your car, like how a business mogul like Elon Musk sells one of his fancy Rockets to someone else you wouldn’t want the new owner using the toll credit you have loaded,  just like Mr. Musk wouldn’t want someone else launching rocket will his fuel.

Other times, turning off your fasting makes a lot of sense. For example, if your car will be parked for a long time and won’t be hitting the highways, Keeping It active might lead to unnecessary charges or complications.

Why is it Important to Deactivate a FASTag Account?

Deactivating a FASTag is necessary for several reasons:

1. Selling the Vehicle: If you are selling your vehicle, you need to deactivate the FASTag linked to it. This ensures that the new owner doesn’t incur charges on your account, and you don’t get billed for tolls after the vehicle is no longer yours.
2. Vehicle No Longer in Use: If a vehicle is no longer in use, maybe due to it being too old or it has been scrapped, deactivating the FASTag stops any accidental toll charges if the tag is mistakenly read near toll plazas.
3. Switching Providers: If you decide to switch to a different FASTag provider for better service or rates, you’ll need to deactivate the old one before setting up a new tag with another provider.
4. Errors or Malfunctions: Sometimes, if there are issues with the FASTag like errors in deduction or it’s not working as it should, you might need to deactivate it and get a new one to ensure smooth toll transactions.
5. Security Reasons: If there’s a security concern, such as unauthorized use, or if you suspect that your FASTag details have been compromised, deactivating it can prevent potential misuse.

Deactivating your FASTag when it’s no longer needed or when changing ownership is important for managing your financial security and avoiding unnecessary charges.

A step-by-step guide to deactivating FASTag

Online deactivation process

Step 1: Log In to Your FASTag Account

• Access the website or mobile app of the bank or issuer from whom you obtained your FASTag. You will need your user ID and password to log in. If you’ve forgotten these credentials, utilize the “Forgot Password” feature or contact customer support for assistance.

Step 2: Navigate to the FASTag Section

• Once logged in, navigate to the section dedicated to FASTag services. This section typically contains details of your FASTag account, including balance, vehicle details, and transaction history.

Step 3: Submit a Deactivation Request

• Look for an option labeled ‘Close Account’, ‘Deactivate’, or similar. This option is usually found in the FASTag account settings or service request section.
• You may be required to fill out a form or provide a reason for the deactivation. Common reasons include vehicle sales, vehicle scrapping, or simply wishing to switch to another service provider.

Step 4: Verify and Confirm Your Details

• Confirm the details of the vehicle and FASTag account that you wish to deactivate. You might need to enter your vehicle registration number or FASTag ID. This step is crucial to ensure that the correct account is being deactivated.

Step 5: Final Submission and Confirmation

• Submit your deactivation request. Most issuers will send a confirmation via email or SMS, and some may require you to confirm the request through a link or a verification code sent to your registered contact details.

Step 6: Check for Confirmation

• Wait for the issuer to process your request. This can take a few days, after which you should receive an official confirmation that your FASTag has been deactivated. Keep this confirmation for your records.

Visiting the bank or issuer office: If you like doing things in person, like visiting the store instead of shopping online, you can go to the bank or the office where you got your FASTag. Remember  to bring:

• Your FASTag
•  ID proof,  like another card
•  the vehicle registration number linked to the Fastag

FASTag Deactivation Process – Different Service Providers

Deactivating a FASTag can vary slightly depending on the service provider. Here’s a simple guide on how to deactivate your FASTag with some of the most common service providers in India:

1. Paytm

• Log into your Paytm account: Use the app or website.
• Navigate to the FASTag section: Often under ‘Manage FASTags’.
• Select the FASTag account: Choose the one linked to your vehicle.
• Request deactivation: There might be an option like ‘Close Account’ or ‘Deactivate FASTag’. Follow the prompts.

2. HDFC Bank

• Access your HDFC account online: Log in through the HDFC website or app.
• Go to the FASTag section: Locate this under the ‘Accounts’ or similar tabs.
• Choose your FASTag account: Select the specific vehicle’s FASTag.
• Submit a deactivation request: Fill out any required forms or reasons for deactivation and submit.

3. ICICI Bank

• Log into your ICICI Bank account: Use their FASTag portal online.
• Find the FASTag option: This could be under a ‘Service Requests’ tab.
• Select ‘Deactivate FASTag’: Fill in the forms and provide reasons for deactivation as required.

4. Axis Bank

• Access your Axis Bank account: Log in on the Axis Bank website.
• Navigate to FASTag: Look under ‘Vehicle Services’ or similar.
• Deactivate your FASTag: Follow the prompts to deactivate, which may include filling out a form.

5. SBI

• Log into your SBI online account: Access the SBI FASTag portal.
• Select the FASTag you want to deactivate: Find the FASTag linked to your vehicle.
• Proceed with deactivation: Follow the steps provided to deactivate the FASTag.

Each provider might have slightly different steps or require different information to complete your request. Always check the specific provider’s website or contact their customer service for the most accurate and detailed guidance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Not everything will go according to plan when you deactivate your FASTag. Let’s figure out how to deal with these little issues before they become major difficulties.

Delay in deactivation: Your Fastag may remain active even after you have performed all the necessary measures to deactivate it. In such a case, you may be charged unexpectedly the next time you go through a toll. Here’s what to do:

• Double-check that you have received a confirmation message or email that your request was received.
• If you do not get any confirmation, contact customer service again and explain the situation. Have your account information ready to help them solve the problem faster.
• If you did get a confirmation but your tag is still active, it might be a technical glitch. Ask for a timeline on when it will be resolved and request a temporary block on the tag if necessary

Resolving disputes and overcharges: If you notice charges on your account that shouldn’t be there, especially after deactivation.

• Gather all your toll transactions and statements. Check them against your travel dates and times.
• Call customer service and clearly explain which charges you believe are incorrect. Provide them with the dates and amounts.
• Ask them to review your account and transactions. They might need some time, so ask how long it will take and follow up regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to deactivate a FASTag?

Deactivation times can vary, but it typically takes about 7 to 10 days for the process to be completed once all required documents are submitted.

Can I reactivate my FASTag once it is deactivated?

No, once a FASTag is deactivated, it cannot be reactivated. You will need to obtain a new FASTag if you wish to use one again.

Is there a fee for deactivating a FASTag?

Most issuers do not charge a deactivation fee, but confirming this with your FASTag provider is best.

What happens to the balance left in my FASTag account?

The issuer will refund the remaining balance in your FASTag account, according to their specific refund policy.

Who should I contact if I have issues during the deactivation process?

You should contact the issuer’s customer service department from whom you obtained the FASTag. They can provide guidance and resolve any issues.