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The central London Congestion Charge

How the central London Congestion Charge works

The central London Congestion Charge (LCC) is run by Transport for London (TfL). It operates Monday to Friday between 7.00 am and 6.00 pm, excluding public holidays.

The daily charge is:

• £10 if you pay before midnight on the day you travel
• £12 if you pay before midnight the following charging day – using the call centre or website only
• £9 if you're registered for the automated payment system Congestion Charging Auto Pay

• Registering with Congestion Charging Auto Pay (TfL) Opens new window

The charging zone

The charging zone covers central London. You're no longer charged for driving in the 'western extension'.

The charging zone is clearly marked, and there are road signs on all roads approaching and leaving the zone. The TfL website has details of the area covered and the times at which the charge applies.

• Where the Congestion Charge operates Opens new window

• Understanding Congestion Charging road signs Opens new window

Penalty charges

The penalty for not paying the LCC is £120, but this is reduced to £60 if you pay within 14 days. If you do not pay the penalty charge within 28 days, it is increased to £180.

Discounts and exemptions

Not all drivers have to pay the LCC. There are discounts and exemptions for certain people and types of vehicle. You may be entitled to a discount or exemption if you:

• More about discounts and exemptions Opens new window

• Register for your discount or exemption on the TfL website Opens new window

• The Blue Badge parking scheme (disabled people section)

Applying for a refund

If you pay for an annual LCC in advance and then sell your vehicle, you can claim a refund for the days you haven't used.

• How to get a refund Opens new window

Durham road user charge scheme

Durham introduced a road user charging scheme in 2001 to control traffic in the streets of the Durham peninsula.

The £2 charge operates between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm, Monday to Saturday. Drivers must pay the charge at the payment machine before leaving the area. The payment machine also accepts exemption permits for residents, public transport and emergency vehicles.

Disabled drivers can reserve a permit in advance by contacting the NCP Parking shop on 0191 384 6633, provided they have pre-arranged a parking space.

The penalty for failing to pay the charge is £30.

Further details can be found on the Durham County Council website.

• Visit Durham County Council's website Opens new window

More useful links

• Greener cars and driving

• Plan your journey

Useful contacts

• Department for Transport (DfT)

• Transport for London (TfL)