Congestion Charge

In 2003 London became the world’s first major city to introduce a congestion charge to reduce the flow of traffic into and around the centre from Monday to Friday. While the number of cars entering the 'congestion zone' has fallen, driving in London can still be slow.

Where and When the Congestion Charge Applies

The charge zone currently covers the following areas: Bayswater, Notting Hill, North and South Kensington, Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Brompton, Belgravia, Pimlico, Victoria, St. James’s, Waterloo, Borough, City of London, Clerkenwell, Holborn, Finsbury, Bloomsbury, Soho, Mayfair, and parts of Marylebone. As you enter the zone, you will see a large letter 'C' in a red circle.

The charge applies between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays and over Christmas.

Charges and Fines

The charge is £8 if you pay by midnight on the day of travel or £10 if you pay by midnight the following charging day. You can pay the following charging day via the call centre and website only.

You must pay the charge to avoid receiving a £50 fine (£100 if not paid within 14 days).

Exemptions and Discounts

People living within the congestion zone receive a 90 per cent discount on the charge, although you must be a registered resident to qualify.

Blue Badge holders qualify for a 100 per cent exemption from the Congestion Charge but you must register with Transport for London before travelling. (Blue Badge is a British parking scheme for disabled drivers).

For full information about how to register for exemption, call +44 (0)845 900 1234. Minicom users should call +44 (0)20 7649 9123. Download an application form at the Congestion Charge website

Disabled drivers in receipt of vehicle excise duty exemption are automatically exempt from the Congestion Charge and do not have to register.

How to Pay the Congestion Charge

You can pay online, at newsagents, petrol stations or any shop displaying the 'C' sign, by post, by telephone on +44 (0)845 900 1234 and even by text message once you've registered online.