How to Start ATM Franchise in India (2026 Complete Guide)
Searching for how to start ATM franchise in India or looking to apply for ATM franchise online?
This guide explains the complete step-by-step process — from investment and documents to installation and profit expectations.
Before you proceed, understand this clearly:
Installing an ATM is simple. Making it profitable requires smart location selection and realistic expectations.
If you have not yet reviewed profit potential, first read our ATM Franchise Profit Guide 2026 .
Step 1: Understand the ATM Franchise Business Model
Most private ATM franchise opportunities operate under the White Label ATM (WLA) model.
Your Responsibility:
- Provide 50–80 sq. ft. visible commercial space
- Electricity connection
- Basic security setup
Operator Provides:
- ATM machine & installation
- Network connectivity
- Cash loading & maintenance
- Branding & technical support
Your income comes from interchange revenue per successful transaction.
Step 2: ATM Franchise Cost in India (2026 Investment)
Starting an ATM franchise in India generally requires ₹3–₹5 lakh total investment.
- Security Deposit: ₹2–₹3 lakh
- Interior & electrical setup: ₹25,000–₹50,000
- Branding & onboarding: ₹40,000–₹60,000
- Monthly running cost: ₹2,000–₹4,000
Exact cost depends on operator model and city category.
For detailed cost structure, visit: ATM Franchise Cost & Requirements .
Step 3: Choose the Right Location (Most Important)
Location determines more than 70% of ATM profitability.
Best Performing Locations:
- Bus stands & transport hubs
- Market areas & retail clusters
- Petrol pumps on highways
- Hospital entrances
- Rural mandi zones
- Main road commercial shops
Avoid:
- Interior residential lanes
- Low-visibility corners
- High-rent but low-footfall areas
If daily transactions fall below 80, return on investment becomes slow and risky.
Step 4: Documents Required for ATM Franchise
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Property ownership proof or Rent agreement
- Latest electricity bill (location proof)
- Passport size photographs
- Cancelled cheque
Operators will verify KYC, financial stability, and location feasibility before approval.
Step 5: RBI Rules & Compliance (2026 Update)
ATM franchise locations must comply with RBI guidelines and network requirements.
- Minimum 98% uptime expectation
- 90-day CCTV storage
- Secure cassette-based cash management
- Accessibility compliance where feasible
Banks may charge up to ₹23 per withdrawal after free transaction limits. This affects interchange structure and revenue flow.
Step 6: ATM Franchise Application & Installation Process
- Submit online application
- Location inspection
- Agreement signing
- Security deposit payment
- Machine installation (7–15 days)
- Activation & go-live
Total setup timeline: 10–30 days depending on operator efficiency.
How Much Can You Earn in 2026?
- 80 transactions/day → ₹20k–₹28k monthly
- 150 transactions/day → ₹35k–₹50k monthly
- 250+ transactions/day → ₹60k–₹75k monthly
Average break-even period: 10–14 months with strong location performance.
Full income analysis available here: ATM Franchise Profit Analysis 2026 .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing location based on low rent instead of footfall
- Ignoring front-facing visibility
- Not verifying revenue-sharing percentage
- Underestimating power backup requirement
- Expecting profit without transaction volume
Ready to Apply for ATM Franchise?
Check eligibility and get professional location evaluation before investing.
Apply Now Check Cost & RequirementsFinal Verdict
Starting an ATM franchise in India in 2026 is straightforward — but profitability depends on location intelligence and transaction volume.
Treat it like a long-term business decision, not a quick-install opportunity.