Using the congestion charge checker is as easy as entering your number plate. This will tell you whether or not you need to pay the charge. You can also enter a London postcode or address to see if it falls within the Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ).
Our tool also shows you the boundaries of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and whether your vehicle is compliant. If not, you will need to pay additional charges.
The London congestion charge was introduced in 2003 with the aim of reducing pollution and traffic in the capital. There's a daily fee of £18 to drive into the centre of London, and this is separate from the ULEZ charge.
You can find out more about ULEZ and check if your car is ULEZ compliant.
If you drive your petrol or diesel car into the CCZ, you'll need to pay the fee. This is enforced using number plate recognition cameras which will record you entering the zone, and failure to pay the charge will result in a hefty fine.
Electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are exempt from the congestion charge. If you want to sell your car and replace it with an electric car, you can use Carwow. Selling your car is quick and hassle free, and you'll get a great price from our trusted dealers.
Once you've got a great price for your old car, you can then check out the best deals on electric cars. Our trusted dealers will offer you their best prices, meaning no haggling on the forecourts, and the car can even be delivered to your door.
The congestion charge zone covers central London, roughly bounded by Marylebone Road, Euston Road, Pentonville Road, City Road, Commercial Street, Tower Bridge Road, New Kent Road, Elephant and Castle, Kennington Lane, Vauxhall Bridge Road, and Park Lane.
The daily congestion charge is a flat fee of £18 per day for petrol, diesel and hybrid cars. Electric vehicles qualify for a discount of 25% to 50%. Residents and Blue Badge holders can apply separately for greater discounts.
The easiest way to pay the congestion charge is online using the TfL website. You can set up an Auto Pay account to automatically bill you for driving into London, so you don't run the risk of forgetting to pay. You can also pay by phone.
The congestion charge operates from 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and midday to 6pm on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
From 25 December 2025, electric vehicles will no longer be exempt from paying the congestion charge and will instead receive a 25% discount. Motorbikes remain exempt from the charge. Blue badge holders can also apply for a 100% discount, and residents can apply for a 90% discount. If you drive an EV, you need to register for the Cleaner Vehicle Discount before driving into the charge zone.
The congestion charge zone is signposted as you enter with a white 'C' in a red circle. This will be displayed on signposts and on road markings.