How can I avoid paying the Congestion Charge?


How can I avoid paying the Congestion Charge? Drive a lower emission car if possible. Electric cars are exempt from the London Congestion Charge. If you're only visiting for the day, consider parking outside the zone and using public transport for the rest of your journey.


Can you park anywhere in London for free?

Most of the spots in London are for residents only or metered. But some are free. To locate them you can use the SpotAngels map before navigating to your desired area. The map updates in real-time, so simply type in the address you're parking near, the time you expect to be there, and your duration.


How do I know if I have to pay Congestion Charge?

You need to pay a daily charge if you drive within the Congestion Charge zone 07:00-18:00 Mon-Fri, 12:00-18:00 Sat-Sun and bank holidays. No charge between Christmas Day and New Year's Day bank holiday (inclusive).


What happens if I pay Congestion Charge by mistake?

The rules for refunds of paid congestion charges as set out in the Scheme Order are the same whatever payment method is used. Refunds are only available for unused future days of monthly (20 day) and annual (252 day) charges. Refunds are not available for any part of daily or weekly (5 day) charges.


Is Congestion Charge free on Sunday?

London's Congestion Charge applies between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday and 12pm to 6pm on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.


How much does ULEZ cost?

London road user charging You can pay by midnight on the third day following the journey or up to 90 days in advance. The daily charge is: £12.50 for cars, motorcycles, vans and specialist vehicles (up to and including 3.5 tonnes) and minibuses (up to and including 5 tonnes)


Can I check if I entered the London congestion charge zone?

Using the Congestion Charge Zone Postcode Checker Our Postcode Checker tool, located on this page, is a convenient way to determine whether a specific London postcode falls within the CCZ. Simply enter the postcode of your destination, and the tool will instantly confirm if it lies within the chargeable zone.


Is ULEZ free for blue badge holders?

ULEZ grace period (temporary discount) Eligible applicants for these grace periods will not need to pay the ULEZ charge until 25 October 2027. Blue badge holders will need to pay the ULEZ charge unless their non-compliant vehicle qualifies for one of the following 3 grace periods.


What cars are exempt from congestion charge?

Who doesn't have to pay congestion charges?
  • Blue Badge holders.
  • Roadside recovery vehicles.
  • Accredited breakdown vehicles.
  • Vehicles with nine or more seats.
  • Cars that emit 75g/km or less of CO2.
  • Zero-emission vehicles (Fully electric vehicles and any other zero emissions vehicles)


Can I set Google Maps to avoid ULEZ?

Google Maps If your journey destination is within the ULEZ, then the app should let you know there is a toll involved when you select your route. A link to the TfL website will let you know the ULEZ may impact your car, and if your journey simply passes through the zone, Maps may recommend a route that avoids the toll.


Is the M25 in the ULEZ zone?

No. The M25 is not be covered by the ULEZ expansion, most of which stops short of the motorway. The M25 marks the boundary of the zone at Enfield and Noak Hill, and although the zone does go slightly past the motorway at North Ockendon, the motorway itself is not subject to ULEZ charges.


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