When driving in and around London there are a few charges you need to look out for.
These include the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), Low Emission Zone (LEZ), Dart Charge (Dartford Crossing) and this blog’s topic, the London Congestion Charge.
If you are working as a PCO (Public Carriage Office) driver and making frequent trips into central London, the Congestion Charge is one of the most important charges to look out for.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Congestion Charge in London for 2025.
What is the London Congestion Charge?
The London Congestion Charge is a daily fee imposed on vehicles driving within a designated zone in Central London.
Introduced to reduce traffic and pollution, it applies to most vehicles during peak hours.
For PCO drivers, staying informed about this charge is crucial to avoid unnecessary PCNs and maintain profitability.
How Much is the Congestion Charge?
As of 2025, the Congestion Charge is:
- £15 if paid in advance or on the day of entering the zone.
- £17.50 if paid by midnight on the third day after entering the congestion charge zones.
Rapid PCO Top Tip: Setting up Auto Pay can help you avoid late fees and streamline your payments.
What is Auto pay?
Auto pay automatically charges your account for the days you drive in the zone.
What Are the Congestion Times?
The Congestion Charge applies during the following hours:
- Monday to Friday: 07:00 – 18:00
- Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holidays: 12:00 – 18:00
- No charge between Christmas Day and New Year’s Day bank holiday (inclusive)
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
Auto Pay is especially useful for PCO drivers who regularly enter the zone.
What if I Forget to Pay the Congestion Charge?
If you drive within the congestion charge zone and fail to pay by midnight on the third day after entering the congestion zone, you’ll receive a Penalty charge notice (PCN).
The PCN for the London Congestion Charge is £180. However, if you pay within 14 days, you can get a discounted rate of £90.
If the PCN is not paid or challenged within 28 days, the fee increases to £270.
Avoid this by setting reminders or using Auto Pay.
How do I pay the Congestion Charge PCN?
If you have received a PCN for failing to pay the London Congestion Charge you can either use the TfL Pay to drive in London app, pay online via the TfL website, or pay by post.
- TFL Pay to drive in London app: Once you have downloaded the app you can use the “Pay Penalty” feature.
- Online: By following this link it will take you to the “Pay a Penalty Charge Notice” TFL website.
A 50% discount is available if you pay within 14 or 21 days (check your notice).
Where is the Congestion Charge Zone?
The Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ) covers most of Central London, including areas like:
- Westminster
- Holborn
- Soho
- South Bank
- Barbican
When did the congestion charge start?
The Congestion Charge Scheme came into effect in central London on February 17, 2003 and was introduced by the London Mayor at the time, Ken Livingstone. The charge was brought into place to address traffic congestion, aid air quality, and increase efficiency within the city.Do Hybrid Cars Pay the Congestion Charge?
Yes, most hybrid vehicles are no longer exempt from the Congestion Charge. The Cleaner Vehicle Discount (CVD) was phased out for hybrids, meaning they must now pay unless they meet strict emission standards. Emission Standards that meet the Congestion Charge Requirements: Petrol Hybrid Cars: Petrol Hybrids generally need t meet Euro 4 standards. These were introduced in 2006. Plug-in Hybrids: Plug-in hybrid’s first registered in the UK as new should be ULEZ compliant. For further information on discounts and exemptions from the Congestion Charge you can find more through clicking this link.Do Electric Cars Pay the Congestion Charge?
Fully electric vehicles are currently eligible for a 100% discount, but you must register with TfL to benefit. This exemption is part of the Cleaner Vehicle Discount, which is set to end on will end on December 25, 2025. As a result, from this date you will need to pay the standard Congestion Charge when entering the zone during charging hours. Rapid PCO post weekly updates on the latest PCO news and industry insights on our Facebook page. You can follow us by clicking this link.How to Navigate the Congestion Charge While Driving in London
Here are some tips for PCO drivers:- Plan routes to avoid the zone during charging hours if possible.
- Use navigation apps that highlight Congestion Charge zones.
- Register for Auto Pay to avoid missed payments.
- Drive electric to benefit from discounts and exemptions.
- Stay informed about changes to the scheme, especially upcoming 2026 proposals.
