Will Two-Wheelers Pay Toll via FASTag? Government Sets the Record Straight

A wave of confusion recently swept across India’s biking community following reports that two-wheelers would soon be required to pay toll tax via FASTag. Responding swiftly, the government has stepped in to debunk these rumors and provide much-needed clarity.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the situation, the official clarification, and what it means for riders.

Key Takeaways

• No Toll for Two-Wheelers: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has confirmed that two-wheelers will continue to be exempt from paying toll tax on national highways.
• Rumors Debunked: Widespread claims that tolls would be levied on bikes from July 15, 2025, are false.
• New Pass for Cars: A separate FASTag-based annual pass for private four-wheelers is being launched, but this does not apply to motorcycles or scooters.

The Rumor That Caused a Stir

In mid-2025, social media posts and some media reports claimed the government planned to make toll tax mandatory for two-wheelers starting July 15, 2025. This news spread rapidly, causing concern among millions of daily commuters who rely on motorcycles and scooters for affordable travel. The prospect of needing a FASTag and paying daily tolls sparked anxiety about increased travel costs.

Government’s Swift Clarification

On June 26, 2025, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, took to social media to address the misinformation head-on.

In his post, he stated, “Some media houses are spreading misleading news about imposing toll tax on two-wheeler vehicles. No such decision has been proposed. The exemption on toll for two-wheeler vehicles will continue fully.”

He condemned the spread of unverified news for sensationalism, emphasizing that it is not a sign of healthy journalism. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) also issued a separate statement, confirming that no proposal to levy user fees on two-wheelers is under consideration.

So, What’s Actually Changing? The New Annual Pass for Cars

While the two-wheeler community can breathe a sigh of relief, there is a new development for four-wheeler owners. The government is set to launch a FASTag-based Annual Pass for private vehicles.

Here are the key details of this new scheme, effective from August 15, 2025:

• Applicability: The pass is exclusively for non-commercial, private vehicles like cars, jeeps, and vans.
• Cost: The annual fee for the pass is ₹3,000.
• Validity: The pass is valid for one year or up to 200 trips, whichever comes first.
• Benefits: This pass aims to reduce waiting times and travel costs for frequent highway users, offering a streamlined and cost-effective solution.

This initiative is designed to ease highway congestion and simplify toll payments for car owners and has no connection to two-wheeler tolls.

What This Means for Two-Wheeler Riders

The message from the government is crystal clear. Here’s what you need to know:

1. No FASTag Needed: You do not need to buy or install a FASTag on your motorcycle or scooter for using national highways.
2. Continue Riding Toll-Free: The long-standing exemption for two-wheelers from paying toll tax remains firmly in place.
3. Stay Informed via Official Sources: To avoid falling for rumors, always rely on information from official channels like the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) and the NHAI.

The government’s prompt and decisive clarification has been crucial in preventing unnecessary panic and reinforcing public trust. For millions of Indian commuters, this means continued savings and the convenience of hassle-free travel on the nation’s highways.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. Please conduct your own research before making any decisions.