The Indian government has made Know Your Vehicle (KYV) verification mandatory for all FASTag users from 31 October 2024. The move aims to prevent fraudulent use of FASTags by linking each tag explicitly to its registered vehicle through photo submissions and registration certificate uploads.
KYV verification, overseen by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), must be renewed every three years to maintain system integrity.
Officials say the step combats misuse cases, such as drivers using tags for vehicles other than those to which they were issued, thus promoting transparency and security in electronic toll collection.
Background on KYV Implementation
The KYV system follows the earlier mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) norm introduced to strengthen FASTag security. It has emerged amidst rising fraud related to the FASTag system, including cases where tags were carried loosely or used across multiple vehicles improperly.
Beginning 31 October 2024, vehicle owners must submit front and side photos of their vehicles showing clearly visible number plates and FASTags, along with scanned copies of vehicle registration certificates. This verification connects the FASTag uniquely to the proper vehicle, ensuring toll payments are accurately processed and reducing misuse by dishonest users.
Process Details and User Impact
To complete KYV, users can log in on their FASTag provider’s website or app and upload required documents and vehicle photos. Recent issues include technical glitches and confusion among motorists, but authorities stress this is a necessary hurdle to prevent fraudulent toll transactions.
Once verified, the FASTag is marked as “active and verified” to enable smooth passage at toll plazas. Failure to comply will result in tag deactivation, forcing motorists to resort to time-consuming cash payments at tolls.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) expects the step to enforce the “one vehicle, one FASTag” rule effectively and calls for user cooperation to keep the system secure and efficient.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
While recognising the inconvenience caused by KYV, The Logical Indian supports measures that enhance transparency, accountability, and security in public systems, especially digital payment platforms like FASTag.
The government’s proactive steps to curb fraud reflect a commitment to protecting honest users and ensuring fair usage of infrastructure. However, authorities must improve user experience, clarifying procedures and addressing technological barriers to foster greater public trust.
News in Q&A
- What is KYV and why is it mandatory now?
KYV stands for Know Your Vehicle, a verification process ensuring that every FASTag is linked to the correct vehicle. Introduced from 31 October 2024, it aims to prevent misuse such as carrying loose FASTags or using the tag across multiple vehicles. The government wants to improve transparency and reduce revenue loss from fraudulent toll payments. - Who needs to complete KYV and what happens if they do not?
All FASTag users across India must complete KYV to keep their FASTags active. Those who do not comply will have their FASTags deactivated, and they will need to pay tolls in cash, causing inconvenience and delays at toll plazas. - How can users complete KYV verification?
Users must log into their FASTag issuer’s website or mobile app, select the KYV option, and upload images including front and back copies of their vehicle registration certificate, along with clear front and side photos of the vehicle showing number plates and the FASTag sticker. Verification typically takes 3 to 7 days, with approval or rejection notified via SMS or email. - Why was KYV introduced after KYC?
While KYC verified customer identity, KYV adds a step verifying the vehicle itself to prevent tag misuse. Officials noticed widespread abuse such as car FASTags used on trucks for cheaper tolls, lost tags used across multiple vehicles, and similar issues, prompting KYV’s introduction for stronger security. - What are the broader implications of KYV?
KYV enforces accurate toll categorisation and fair billing while securing India’s digital tolling infrastructure. However, some users have expressed concerns about privacy, technical glitches, and added inconvenience. Authorities are urged to provide clear guidance and strong customer support to ease the transition.
