Driving passengers around London can be challenging, especially when you’re navigating the Congestion Charge Zone. As an Uber, PCO or private hire driver, you’ll need to pay the charge like everyone else. So, it’s a good idea to brush up on your knowledge.
Use this guide to learn all about the charges, when they apply and how to pay.
What exactly is the London Congestion Charge?
The Congestion Charge is a fee for vehicles driving within Central London’s Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ). It's in place to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution, and to raise funds for London’s transport system. If you’re entering areas like King’s Cross, Buckingham Palace, or the Imperial War Museum throughout the week, be ready to pay.
The Congestion Charge is different from London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge, with different fees and times for each. Learn more about the ULEZ on the TfL website.
When does the Congestion Charge apply?
The Congestion Charge applies every day of the week, except between Christmas Day and New Year's Day:
- Monday to Friday: 7am–6pm
- Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays: 12 noon–6pm
- Christmas Day to New Year’s Day (inclusive): No charge
The standard charge is £15 if you pay in advance or on the same day, or £17.50 if you pay by midnight three days later.
How can I pay the Congestion Charge?
There are a few ways to pay:
- Auto Pay: Once you’ve registered for Auto Pay, the charge will get automatically deducted from your account.
- Online: Pay directly through the Transport for London (TfL) website.
- Phone: Call 0343 222 2222 (TfL call charges apply).
- App: The TfL Congestion Charge app offers a fast and easy way to pay.
Are there any exemptions or discounts?
Yes, there are several exemptions and discounts available:
- Residents who live within the CCZ can register for a 90% discount.
- Blue Badge holders are eligible for a 100% discount, even if they don't own a vehicle.
- Riders of two-wheeled motorbikes and mopeds don’t have to pay the charge.
Check out the TfL website for the full list of exemptions.
Conclusion
Understanding and paying the London Congestion Charge is an important part of operating as an Uber, PCO or private hire driver in London. By staying up-to-date about the charge, when it applies, and how to pay, you can ensure a smooth, hassle-free driving experience in the city.
Frequently asked questions
Does Uber pay the London Congestion Charge?
Uber drivers will need to pay the London Congestion Charge whenever they drive within the zone during charging hours. However, Uber introduced a £1.50 Central London Fee that gets added to every trip that starts, ends or passes through the Congestion Charge zone, 24 hours a day.
Do electric cars pay the Congestion Charge?
Fully-electric cars are exempt from the Congestion Charge until December 2025. After this date, Transport for London (TfL) plans to end the green vehicle discount and make all drivers pay the daily fee, regardless of the car they drive.
Do taxi drivers have to pay the Congestion Charge?
Private hire vehicles (PHVs), including taxis, are not exempt from the Congestion Charge. PHV drivers and operators need to pay the Congestion Charge if they travel within the zone during charging hours.
Who doesn't pay the Congestion Charge?
Blue Badge holders, drivers of vehicles with nine or more seats, drivers of zero-emission vehicles, and motorcycle and moped riders are fully exempt from the Congestion Charge.
Do I have to pay the Congestion Charge if I don't drive?
The Congestion Charge only applies when you actually drive your car in the congestion zone during the charge period. If you leave your car in a car park for a few days, you don't have to pay the congestion charge on the days you don't use your car.
How do I avoid paying the London Congestion Charge?
You can avoid paying the Congestion Charge by planning your visit properly, understanding the Congestion Charge Zone map, driving outside of the charging period, or choosing a zero-emission car.
What is the best way to pay the London Congestion Charge?
The best way to pay the London Congestion Charge is through TfL’s automated payment system, Auto Pay. Once registered, TfL automatically checks whether you need to pay the Congestion Charge and ULEZ charge, and if you drive within the zone, it automatically charges you.
How do I know if I’m exempt from the Congestion Charge?
You can check if you're exempt from the Congestion Charge by visiting the Transport for London (TfL) website and entering your vehicle details. The website will then let you know if your vehicle is exempt or not.
Are London black cabs exempt from the Congestion Charge?
Yes, London's black cabs are exempt from the Congestion Charge. Taxis have to be actively licensed with London Taxi and Private Hire (TPH) to be exempt.
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