The air-pollution in London is increasing the rates of asthma, lung disease and heart disease amongst society. About 50% of the nitrogen oxide levels in the area have come from vehicles, pushing many areas into a level of pollution that is deemed illegal. Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) helps to improve the air quality control in London, by paying a daily charge for the use of vehicles, on top of the London Congestion Charge. It applies to all vehicles, including (but not limited to) cars, motorbikes, mopeds, vans, buses and diesel vehicles. The extra costs are being used as a deterrent to try to eliminate the amount of vehicles being used daily.
Where does ULEZ charge apply?
ULEZ rates apply 364 days a year, with the only exception falling on Christmas Day. Since 29 August 2023, ULEZ has operated across all London boroughs up to the existing Low Emission Zone boundary. The ULEZ is enforced based on the declared emission standards of your vehicle, with Euro 4 being the usual standard for petrol, and Euro 6 for diesel. You can check how your vehicle will be affected by entering your registration here.
Costs, and how to pay
ULEZ charges are based from midnight-to-midnight, and it is important to pay on the day that you travelled. The daily ULEZ charge is £12.50 for most vehicles, with the exception of larger vehicles such as coaches and lorries required to pay £100. Penalties may apply if you do not pay on time, so it is a good idea to set up auto-pay if you are a frequent flyer in London. You can find ways to pay at the Transport for London website.
Discounts and exemptions
There are some people and vehicles that will not be required to pay ULEZ, such as ambulances, NHS vehicles, and mopeds. There are a variety of reasons as to why you may be exempt from these costs, and you can check this out here. In the meantime, do the best you can to eliminate the amount of pollution in the air, by taking the tube, busses, walking, or car-pooling when possible.
Original guide plus emissions checks
ULEZ and other clean-air schemes can change whether a vehicle is affordable for your actual driving pattern.
Fuel type, emissions standard, registration details and local use all matter. Do not rely on age alone when judging compliance.
A non-compliant car may still work for some drivers, but regular zone use should affect the budget and the price you are willing to pay.
Use Car Check Experts for buyer-focused history checks, then compare key legal and road-use details with official services where they apply.
No. Petrol and diesel vehicles can both be affected depending on emissions standard.
Yes if the vehicle will be used in or near affected zones.