We’ve all heard of KYC – Know Your Customer. It’s that familiar process every bank or financial institution requires to verify who we are before opening an account or offering services.
But have you come across the term KYV – Know Your Vehicle?
If not, it’s time to get familiar. KYV is the newest buzzword among vehicle owners and FASTag users. While it may sound similar to KYC, the two serve very different purposes. KYC is about verifying you, whereas KYV is about verifying your vehicle.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about KYV — what it is, why it’s important, how to complete it, and the most common FAQs car buyers and FASTag users should be aware of.
What Is KYV (Know Your Vehicle)?
Know Your Vehicle (KYV) is a regulatory requirement introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) for all FASTag users.
The main purpose of KYV is to verify that the FASTag issued is correctly linked to the right vehicle.
Just like KYC ensures that your identity is genuine, KYV ensures that your FASTag – that little RFID sticker on your windshield – belongs to your actual vehicle and not someone else’s.
The Official Mandate
In October 2024, the NPCI issued a circular mandating all banks and FASTag issuers to conduct KYV verification for their customers. As per this circular, KYV must be renewed every three years — a process known as re-KYV.
This means if you own a vehicle and use FASTag, you’ll need to upload specific images and documents periodically to keep your FASTag active and valid.
Why Is KYV Required?
You might wonder why such a process is necessary when your FASTag already works just fine.
Here are the main reasons:
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To prevent misuse of FASTags
Earlier, there were cases where a FASTag issued for one vehicle was being used on another. KYV ensures the FASTag is physically attached to the right vehicle. -
To maintain accurate records
By verifying each vehicle visually and digitally, authorities can maintain a clean, updated database that links every FASTag to its rightful owner and vehicle registration number. -
To promote transparency and accountability
With KYV, toll operators and banks can ensure smoother toll transactions and prevent fraudulent or mistaken charges. -
To comply with NPCI regulations
FASTag is a part of the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) system operated by NPCI. KYV ensures that all users meet the latest compliance requirements, similar to how KYC is required for banking and digital payments.
How Does KYV Work?
The KYV process is straightforward but must be done carefully to avoid rejections. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Log in to Your FASTag Portal
Visit your FASTag provider’s official website or mobile app. Examples include banks like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, SBI, Axis Bank, or payment platforms like Paytm FASTag.
Look for an option such as “Know Your Vehicle (KYV) Update” or “Re-KYV”.
Step 2: Upload Required Photos
You will need to upload clear, recent images of your vehicle from different angles. These include:
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Front View Photo – This image must show the entire front of the vehicle, including the edges, vehicle number plate, and the FASTag sticker on the windshield.
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Side View Photo – Capture the vehicle from one side, showing both the front and rear edges.
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FASTag Sticker Photo (Close-up) – A clear, close-up shot of the FASTag sticker that clearly shows its serial number or QR code.
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Digital RC Copy – Upload a digital copy of your Registration Certificate (RC). This must be downloaded from official sources like the mParivahan or DigiLocker app. Screenshots or edited images are not accepted.
Step 3: Submit the Form
Once all photos are uploaded, review the details carefully and click Submit.
The system will verify your images and documents. If everything matches, your KYV will be marked as “Approved.”
KYV Validity and Renewal
The validity of KYV is three years from the date of approval.
After three years, every FASTag customer must complete re-KYV — essentially, re-uploading fresh vehicle images and updated documents to confirm that the FASTag is still correctly affixed and the vehicle details haven’t changed.
When Is Re-KYV Required?
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Every three years as per NPCI guidelines.
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When transferring ownership of a vehicle.
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If the windshield is replaced, and the FASTag needs to be re-affixed.
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If the FASTag is replaced or damaged.
What Happens If You Don’t Complete KYV?
Ignoring the KYV process can lead to temporary suspension or deactivation of your FASTag.
That means you may face issues like:
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FASTag not working at toll plazas.
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Double charges if you pay cash at tolls.
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Inconvenience during long drives on highways.
Your bank or FASTag provider may also send reminders via SMS or email. It’s best to complete KYV as soon as possible to avoid disruptions.
Benefits of KYV
KYV may sound like an additional formality, but it brings several benefits for both vehicle owners and the overall toll collection system:
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Accuracy in Toll Collection – Ensures tolls are deducted from the correct vehicle’s account.
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Fraud Prevention – Prevents the use of one FASTag across multiple vehicles.
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Ease of Ownership Transfer – Makes it easier to track ownership when vehicles are sold.
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Regulatory Compliance – Keeps your vehicle record compliant with NPCI and government norms.
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Improved Trust in the FASTag System – A verified vehicle database boosts reliability for all stakeholders — from banks to toll authorities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During KYV
While uploading KYV details, many users face rejection because of small but crucial errors. To avoid that, here are a few tips:
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Do not upload blurry or dark photos. Make sure your images are taken in daylight with the vehicle clearly visible.
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Ensure the FASTag sticker is visible and legible. If it’s faded or damaged, request a new one before uploading photos.
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Avoid screenshots of RC. Only download official digital copies from authorized government apps.
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Don’t crop out important vehicle parts. The entire front or side view must be visible.
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Match vehicle number and FASTag ID. They must correspond exactly to your registration details.
KYV vs KYC: Understanding the Difference
It’s easy to confuse KYV with KYC, especially since both involve verification. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | KYC (Know Your Customer) | KYV (Know Your Vehicle) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Verifies customer identity | Verifies vehicle and FASTag |
| Applicable To | Bank accounts, digital wallets, etc. | FASTag users and vehicle owners |
| Documents Required | ID proof, address proof | Vehicle photos, RC copy, FASTag image |
| Validity | Varies by service provider | 3 years |
| Regulator | RBI, SEBI, etc. | NPCI |
| Process Mode | Online/Offline | Online |
In short:
👉 KYC verifies you. KYV verifies your vehicle.
How to Check KYV Status
After submitting your KYV documents, you can easily check your status:
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Log in to your FASTag provider’s portal or app.
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Go to the KYV section or Compliance tab.
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Check whether the status is marked as:
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Pending – Under review.
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Approved – KYV successfully verified.
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Rejected – Needs correction (usually due to unclear photos or mismatched data).
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If rejected, you can re-upload corrected images and resubmit.
Who Needs to Complete KYV?
KYV is mandatory for all FASTag users — whether you’re a private car owner, fleet operator, or commercial vehicle owner.
This includes:
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Personal vehicles (cars, SUVs, bikes with FASTag)
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Commercial vehicles (buses, trucks, cabs)
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Fleet owners managing multiple vehicles
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New vehicle buyers applying for a new FASTag
Even if your FASTag is currently working, completing KYV ensures uninterrupted service in the future.
How Car Buyers Are Affected
If you’re planning to buy a new or used car, KYV also plays a role in your purchase process.
Here’s how:
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For new car buyers:
Dealers usually assist with FASTag registration and KYV submission during delivery. Ensure you get the KYV acknowledgment or confirmation from the dealer. -
For used car buyers:
If the previous owner’s FASTag is still linked to the vehicle, it must be removed or transferred before you complete your own KYV.
Failing to update KYV after buying a used car could lead to toll deductions from the old owner’s account or rejection of your own KYV request.
Digital RC: What You Need to Know
KYV requires a digital RC – but many people confuse this with a scanned copy.
Here’s the difference:
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✅ Digital RC – Downloaded from official apps like mParivahan or DigiLocker.
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❌ Screenshot or photo of physical RC – Not accepted.
Make sure your RC shows correct details such as:
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Vehicle registration number
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Owner’s name
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Chassis number
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Engine number
What If Your Vehicle Has Multiple FASTags?
Every vehicle should ideally have only one FASTag linked to it.
If you’ve accidentally purchased multiple FASTags or replaced your windshield, cancel the old tag before applying for a new one.
During KYV, your bank or FASTag issuer will verify which FASTag is active and ensure it matches your vehicle’s registration number.
The Bigger Picture: KYV and India’s Digital Mobility Mission
KYV is more than just another compliance step — it’s part of a larger digital mobility transformation in India.
By linking verified vehicle data with digital payment systems, the government aims to:
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Strengthen road transport infrastructure.
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Enable seamless toll collection.
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Reduce human error and cash handling at toll booths.
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Build a reliable, transparent vehicle registry.
In the future, KYV data could also be integrated with systems like e-challan, vehicle insurance, and smart parking, making life easier for every motorist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is KYV mandatory for all FASTag users?
Yes, as per NPCI’s October 2024 circular, KYV is mandatory for every FASTag user — new and existing.
2. How often do I need to complete KYV?
Every three years, or whenever your FASTag or vehicle ownership changes.
3. What happens if I don’t complete KYV on time?
Your FASTag may get deactivated or blocked, and you might have to pay tolls manually until it’s updated.
4. Can I do KYV offline?
No. KYV is an online-only process conducted through your bank’s FASTag portal or mobile app.
5. Can I use the same FASTag for two vehicles?
No. Each FASTag is uniquely linked to one vehicle and registration number.
6. What if my FASTag sticker is damaged or unreadable?
You must request a replacement FASTag and re-complete the KYV process for the new tag.
7. Are there any charges for KYV?
Most banks do not charge for KYV. However, replacement FASTags may incur a small fee.
8. How long does KYV approval take?
Typically, it takes 1–3 working days for the verification to complete, provided all images and documents are clear.
Conclusion: KYV – A Step Toward Smarter, Safer Roads
The Know Your Vehicle (KYV) process may seem like a small step, but it plays a big role in strengthening India’s digital transportation network.
It ensures that each vehicle on the road is properly verified, linked to the right owner, and compliant with national toll systems.
Just like KYC transformed the world of banking, KYV is set to bring similar transparency and trust to the world of vehicle management and toll collection.
So, if you haven’t completed your KYV yet — now’s the time. Log in to your FASTag provider’s portal, upload your vehicle images, and stay road-ready for a smooth, cashless driving experience.
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