London Congestion Charge 2026: A Clear Guide for PCO Drivers
Driving in central London as a PCO driver means keeping on top of the congestion charge, the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and other London road user charges like the Dart Charge (Dartford Crossing). This updated 2026 guide explains the daily charge, congestion charge zone, times, how to pay the charge and what happens if you forget, using simple, easy-to-read language.
What is the London Congestion Charge?
When you drive in and around London, there are several charges to watch for: the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), Low Emission Zone (LEZ), Dart Charge for the Dartford Crossing, and the congestion charge.
For PCO drivers making frequent trips into central London, the congestion charge is often the one that affects profits the most. The London congestion charge is a daily charge for vehicles driving within a set congestion charge zone in central London.
It was introduced to cut traffic and pollution and works alongside the ultra-low emission zone, which focuses on stricter emissions standards for vehicles. Most vehicles registered to drive in the area during charging times must either pay the charge or be exempt.
Staying on top of the rules helps you avoid Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) and keep more of your earnings.
How Much is the Congestion Charge in 2026?
As of 2026, the congestion charge is:
- £18 if you pay in advance or on the day you drive in the zone
- £21 if you pay by midnight of the third day after you drive in the congestion charge zone
This is a flat daily charge, so you pay once per day, not per journey.
To pay for the congestion charge or to pay for a PCN, you can click here.
How Do I Pay the London Congestion Charge?
Paying the Congestion Charge is simple and can be done in several ways:
- Online via the TfL website: Pay the Congestion Charge
- TfL’s “Pay to Drive in London” app: Available on iOS and Android.
- Auto Pay: Automatically charges your account for the days you drive in the zone.
- By phone: Call 0343 222 2222 (UK) or +44 343 222 2222 (international).
Alternatively, if you have impaired hearing you can use Textphone: 020 7649 9123
When you pay, you will normally need your vehicle’s number plate details and a credit card or debit card.
For drivers with impaired hearing, TfL also offers a Textphone service. Auto Pay is particularly helpful for PCO drivers who enter the zone regularly, as it cuts admin and lowers the risk of missing a payment.
Auto Pay and Vehicle Discounts
Setting up Auto Pay can make life easier, especially if you enter the zone often. Once you register, Auto Pay tracks the number plate of your vehicles registered to the account and automatically takes payment on the days you drive in the zone. This reduces the risk of forgetting to pay the charge.
Some drivers and vehicles may be entitled to a vehicle discount or exemption, for example certain electric vehicles or drivers in specific groups. You need to check if your vehicle meets the relevant emissions standards or discount criteria and register in advance if required.
To set up auto pay, click here.
When Does the Congestion Charge Apply?
The congestion charge applies at the following times:
- Monday to Friday: 07:00 – 18:00
- Saturday, Sunday and bank holidays: 12:00 – 18:00
- No charge between Christmas Day and the New Year’s Day bank holiday (inclusive)
Outside these hours, there is no daily charge for the congestion zone, but remember that other schemes, such as the ultra-low emission zone, can operate 24/7.
What if I Forget to Pay the Congestion Charge?
If you drive within the congestion charge zone and do not pay the daily charge by midnight on the third day after driving, TfL will issue a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
Typical PCN levels for the congestion charge are:
- £180 full charge
- £90 if you pay within 14 days (50% discount)
- Up to £270 if you do not pay or challenge it within 28 days
You can pay a congestion charge PCN online, via the TfL app, or by post.
Act quickly to secure any available discount. Avoid getting a PCN by setting reminders or using Auto Pay.
Where is the Congestion Charge Zone?
The congestion charge zone covers most of central London. It includes busy areas such as:
- Westminster
- Holborn
- Soho
- South Bank
- Barbican
TfL provides postcode and map search tools so you can check whether an address is inside the congestion zone before you drive there.
Congestion Charge round up
If you’re a PCO driver or regular commuter into central London, factor the congestion charge, ULEZ and other road user charges into your running costs. Setting up Auto Pay, checking your vehicle’s emissions standards and planning your routes around the congestion charge zone can save you time and money. For specialist cover that supports drivers facing London’s unique driving costs, explore car insurance options with Acorn and its group brands.
About Rapid PCO
At Rapid PCO, we are more than just a PCO rental company in London. We are a reliable partner to thousands of private hire drivers who entrust us with their PCO car rental needs.
With over a decade of experience in the industry, we have established ourselves as the smart choice for anyone looking for quality and affordable PCO car rentals in London.
To find out more about Rapid PCO you can call us on 01732747190 or you can browse our PCO car hire fleet here.
