What is the difference between the Congestion Charge and ULEZ in London?

The Congestion Charge covers a small central zone for traffic reasons, while ULEZ covers a larger area and charges only higher-emission vehicles, per TfL.

How much is the London Congestion Charge in 2026?

About £18 per day if paid on the travel day or in advance, rising to about £21 if paid within three days afterward, per TfL.

London Congestion Charge & ULEZ 2026 Guide

Q: What happens if I miss a Congestion Charge or ULEZ payment?

TfL can issue a Penalty Charge Notice of about £180, reduced to about £90 if paid within 14 days.

Driving into London involves two distinct TfL schemes, the Congestion Charge and the Ultra Low Emission Zone, which cover different areas and apply for different reasons. Checking a vehicle against both on the TfL website is advisable before travel. This guide summarizes current official rules and payment steps.

Two separate schemes

The Congestion Charge covers a central zone; ULEZ covers all London boroughs, not just the area inside the North and South Circular roads. The schemes have different conditions and may both apply to a journey. Check zone, plate and exemptions at https://tfl.gov.uk/.

Current hours and fees

Per TfL, the Congestion Charge is about £18 per day when paid on the travel day or in advance, rising to about £21 within three days afterward, running 07:00-18:00 Monday to Friday and 12:00-18:00 on weekends and bank holidays, with no charge over the Christmas to New Year period. ULEZ is about £12.50 daily, charged midnight to midnight, every day except Christmas Day.

How to pay

TfL's website lets drivers check a vehicle's ULEZ status by number plate, and non-UK plates should register in advance so the checker recognizes them. Payment is possible online, by phone, or via the TfL app, with Auto Pay billing monthly to reduce the risk of missing a payment, since no reminder is sent before a penalty is issued.

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Penalties and practical alternatives

Missing payment typically brings a Penalty Charge Notice of about £180, reduced to about £90 if settled within 14 days, and ULEZ penalties can apply per calendar day driven in the zone. Public transport, including the Tube and buses with daily contactless caps, is a widely used alternative for visits to central London, reducing exposure to both charges entirely.