What is the London Congestion Charge?

What the Congestion Charge is

The Congestion Charge is a daily charge for driving inside a set area of central London, called the Congestion Charge zone. It is run by Transport for London (TfL), not by central government. The aim is to cut traffic in the busiest part of the city.

You pay once for each day you drive in the zone during charging hours. It does not matter how many times you go in and out that day.

When it applies

If you only drive in the zone outside these hours, you do not pay.

Who has to pay

Most people driving a vehicle in the zone during charging hours must pay, unless they have registered for a discount or exemption.

The main discount is the residents' discount. If you live in the zone you can get 90% off. There is a £10 yearly registration charge for this discount. If you have just moved into the zone and are waiting for approval, you may be able to get back 90% of the charges you paid while you waited.

Check TfL's discounts and exemptions page to see if any other discount applies to you. You must register with TfL first. Do not assume you are exempt without checking.

How much it costs

TfL sets the daily price. Check the current amount on TfL's Congestion Charge page before you travel, as TfL can change it.

How to pay

TfL says the easiest way to pay is Auto Pay.

• You set up an account with TfL. You must be 18 or over.
• You can add up to 5 vehicles. There are no fees to add vehicles.
• You pay by Direct Debit or a linked card.
• TfL bills you automatically for each charging day your vehicle is driven in the zone.
• While you are registered, you are protected from getting Penalty Charge Notices for the charge.

You can also pay for each journey yourself on TfL's website. If you do not pay in time, you can get a Penalty Charge Notice (a fine).

The Congestion Charge and ULEZ

The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is a separate charge. If your vehicle does not meet ULEZ standards, you must pay the ULEZ charge as well as the Congestion Charge. Paying one does not cover the other.

Things to know

• The charge is paid per day, not per trip.
• Discounts and exemptions only apply once TfL has registered you.
• If you are signed up to Auto Pay, check your vehicle details are up to date.

Related guides

• What is the Dart Charge and how do I pay it?
• How long do I have to pay a parking fine?
• Do I have to pay to drive in a Clean Air Zone?
• How do I check if my car is ULEZ compliant?

Where this comes from

• Congestion Charge (Transport for London)
• Congestion Charge discounts and exemptions (Transport for London)
• Auto Pay (Transport for London)