Islamabad officially transitioned to its mandatory electronic vehicle identification system on November 18, 2025. The Electronic Tag (E-Tag), which utilizes the existing M-Tag technology, is now compulsory for every vehicle operating within the federal capital.
This is a foundational step towards a secure, digitized metropolis. The system is directly linked to the Islamabad Safe City Authority for surveillance and enhanced public safety. Compliance is critical: authorities are urging residents to tag their vehicles now, as those without a valid tag will soon be denied entry at major checkpoints.
This guide provides the latest, most accurate details on how to get your vehicle tagged, ensuring you navigate the capital without delay.
Why Your Vehicle Needs an E-Tag
The E-Tag/M-Tag system is mandatory for all four-wheeled vehicles (including those registered in other provinces) to ensure city-wide security and streamlined traffic management.
- Launch Date: The system formally became mandatory on November 18, 2025.
- The DC’s Mandate: Islamabad Deputy Commissioner (DC) has strongly reiterated that M-Tag installation is mandatory for every vehicle traveling within the federal capital.
- Security & Surveillance: The system links your vehicle’s identity to the Safe City Authority, supporting security checks, traffic monitoring, and effective vehicle regulation across the city.
- Deadline Extension for Commercial Transport: The Islamabad Transport Authority (ITA) has recently granted a one-week extension for inter-city and inter-provincial transport operators to ensure compliance with both M-Tag installation and mandatory vehicle emission testing. Authorities stress this is the final ultimatum, with non-compliant bus terminals facing cancellation of their NOCs.
- Consequences of Non-Compliance: The administration confirmed that action will be taken against non-compliant vehicles, which includes denial of entry at checkpoints, forcing redirection or delays.
Crucial Clarification for Islamabad Residents: Every vehicle, including those registered in Islamabad that are currently without a tag, must obtain an E-Tag/M-Tag. This is mandatory for all vehicles plying on the capital’s roads.
E-Tag vs. M-Tag: A Quick Clarification
While the administration uses both terms, the technology is unified. The difference is administrative, not functional.
| Tag Name | Primary Function | Compliance Status |
| M-Tag (Motorway Tag) | Automated toll collection on National Motorways. | Compliant. If you have this tag, you do not need a new E-Tag. |
| E-Tag (Enforcement Tag) | City-level vehicle identification and surveillance for Safe City. | Mandatory. This is the name for the new tag being issued by the ICT Administration. |
For city compliance, M-Tag and E-Tag are interchangeable. The requirement is simply to have one working RFID chip on your vehicle.
How and Where to Get Your E-Tag quickly
To ensure maximum public convenience and prevent a last-minute rush, the administration has significantly expanded operations across the capital.
Expanded Service Points and Mobile Vans
The ICT administration has now established 13 M-Tag service points across the federal capital.
- University Mobile Van Service (New): Special mobile vans have been deployed to university campuses, including the Islamic University, COMSATS, and NUST, to facilitate students and staff in obtaining M-Tags without leaving their institutions.
- Total Locations: 13 active M-Tag points are operational citywide.
Extended Timings for Maximum Convenience
| Location Type | Operating Hours | Key Feature |
| All 13 Designated Centres | 9 AM to 9 PM, Seven Days a Week (Including Saturday and Sunday) | Extended weekend hours to accommodate professionals, private-sector workers, and commercial drivers. |
| Excise & Taxation Office (H-9) | 3 PM to 9 PM | Provides an additional, late-afternoon option for residents. |
Required Documentation
To complete the tagging process quickly, residents must bring the following to any centre:
- Original CNIC
- Original Vehicle Registration Book or Certificate
- Mobile Phone Number for verification
M-Tag Recharge & Cost
- Installation Cost: The current tag cost is approximately Rs. 250.
- Mobile Wallets: The fastest way to recharge is through popular mobile banking apps like JazzCash and Easypaisa, using the dedicated M-Tag/One Network recharge option.
- One Network App: Use the official app to check your balance, monitor travel history, and recharge using your debit/credit card.
Key FAQs
| Question | Answer |
| Is the Motorway M-Tag sufficient? | Yes. It is valid for city compliance. You do not need a new E-Tag sticker. |
| Do motorcycles need a tag? | Not yet. In the first phase, the focus is on four-wheeled vehicles. Motorcycles will be included later. |
| What if my documents are not original? | You must present the Original CNIC and Original Registration Book/Certificate for verification. |
| Official Helpline? | For M-Tag/One Network queries, the official helpline is 1313 (24/7 assistance). |
The administration’s commitment to providing 13 service points, seven-day service, extended hours, and on-campus mobile service reflects their focus on public convenience during this transition. By securing your M-Tag now, you are ensuring uninterrupted travel and actively contributing to a more secure, regulated, and efficient Smart Islamabad.