The government has made changes to vehicle rules that could affect car owners who have unpaid toll fees. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has updated the Central Motor Vehicles Rules,
2026, to tighten checks around toll payments on national highways.
These changes focus on making sure toll charges are paid on time, improving the electronic toll system, and stopping people from skipping toll payments. The move is also linked to the upcoming system of barrier-free tolling, where vehicles will no longer need to stop at toll plazas.
Under the new rules, toll payments are now closely tied to vehicle records. This means unpaid toll charges can lead to serious issues, especially if someone wants to sell or transfer their vehicle.
Pending Toll Fees Can Block Vehicle Sale And Transfer
One of the biggest changes is the addition of a new term called “unpaid user fee.” This refers to toll charges that were recorded by the electronic toll system but were not paid.
If a vehicle has any unpaid toll fees, the owner will not get a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Without an NOC, a vehicle cannot be sold, transferred, or moved to another state. In simple terms, clearing toll dues is now a must before any ownership change.
Unpaid Dues Affect Fitness Certificates And Permits
Vehicles with pending toll charges will also face trouble when applying for or renewing a Certificate of Fitness. This certificate is required for older vehicles and all commercial vehicles to stay legally fit for use on roads.
For commercial vehicles applying for a National Permit, the rules clearly say there should be no unpaid toll fees linked to the vehicle. If dues exist, the permit process will not move forward.
Form 28 Updated To Include Toll Payment Details
MoRTH has also updated Form 28, which is used to apply for an NOC. Vehicle owners must now declare whether any toll payments are pending and share related details.
The ministry has made it clear that no NOC will be issued for transfer, fitness renewal, or permits if toll dues remain unpaid. The updated rules explain that an “unpaid user fee” is a toll amount recorded through the electronic toll system but not received as per the National Highways Act, 1956.
Digital Tolling And Future Plans Explained
According to MoRTH, these changes will help NHAI build a transparent and tech-based toll system. Parts of Form 28 can now be issued online, making the process more digital.
The rule changes were finalised after public feedback on draft rules released in July 2025. The government is also preparing for a new toll system that will use number plate cameras and FASTag to charge vehicles without stopping. In cases where tolls are not paid, e-notices may be sent, FASTags can be suspended, and other penalties may follow through the VAHAN system.
