Quick Answer
From 2 October 2026, eligible exempted FASTags issued to persons with 70%–100% recorded disability are valid for five years, while those issued to persons with 40% to below 70% disability are valid for three years. The earlier framework required annual renewal. Renewal after the new validity period remains subject to continued eligibility.
The Government of India has revised the guidelines for issuing and renewing exempted FASTags for eligible Divyangjan and Persons with Disabilities (PwD). The change reduces repeated renewal formalities and links the tag's validity to the disability percentage recorded in an accepted official document.
What changed from October 2, 2026?
Previously, eligible Divyangjan beneficiaries had to renew an exempted FASTag annually. Under the revised framework, the validity period depends on the recorded percentage of disability.
| Recorded disability | New validity | Earlier renewal |
|---|---|---|
| 70%–100% | 5 years | Annual |
| 40% to below 70% | 3 years | Annual |
Who is eligible?
The revised guidelines cover eligible vehicles specially designed and constructed for use by persons with physical disabilities, as well as eligible vehicles registered under the ownership type “Divyangjan.” The percentage of disability is determined from a valid Disability Certificate, Unique Disability Identity (UDID) Card or other applicable record.
Is the exempted FASTag free?
Yes, for eligible applicants. IHMCL states that exempted FASTags are issued free of cost under the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008 and subsequent amendments. IHMCL also says exempted FASTags are issued by an agency authorised by NHAI, not by ordinary member banks.
Documents required
Registration Certificate (RC) of the vehicle.
Aadhaar, driving licence, PAN, government ID or Voter ID, as applicable.
Proof supporting the selected exempted category.
Completed and signed exempted FASTag application form.
For the revised Divyangjan/PwD validity framework, the recorded disability percentage may be established through a valid Disability Certificate, UDID Card or other applicable records.
How to apply for an Exempted FASTag
- Visit the official IHMCL website and register with your name, email address, mobile number and city.
- Log in using the credentials sent to your registered email address.
- Download the exempted FASTag application form from the dashboard.
- Choose the applicable exempted category and the relevant NHAI Regional Office.
- Enter the applicant and vehicle registration details.
- Upload the RC, identity proof, exemption proof and completed signed application form.
- Submit the application and retain the Application Case ID sent by email.
- Track the application online and provide any clarification requested.
- After approval, follow the issuance instructions. IHMCL's current FAQ says the exempted FASTag sticker is collected from the respective NHAI Regional Office.
Do exempt vehicles still need a FASTag sticker?
Yes. IHMCL states that categories of vehicles exempted from paying fees at National Highway toll plazas are still required to affix a FASTag RFID sticker to the vehicle.
What happens after 3 or 5 years?
The exemption does not become permanent. Once the applicable three-year or five-year validity ends, the exempted FASTag may be renewed subject to continued eligibility and compliance with the National Highways Fee Rules, 2008.
What about an existing one-year exempted FASTag?
The October 1 government announcement explains the new validity periods, but it does not state that every previously issued one-year tag is automatically extended. Existing holders should verify the validity shown for their tag through the appropriate IHMCL/NHAI channel instead of assuming an automatic extension.
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Editorial note: This independent guide reflects the revised guidelines announced on 1 October 2026 and effective from 2 October 2026. Eligibility decisions should be verified against the latest NHAI/IHMCL rules and the applicant's official records.