ULEZ London Guide (2025)

The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is a key part of London’s efforts to reduce air pollution. This guide covers what the ULEZ is, where it applies, how much it costs, which vehicles are affected, and how to prepare before driving in London.

What is ULEZ?

What Is Ulez

The ULEZ is a designated area in London where vehicles must meet strict emissions standards or pay a daily charge. It aims to improve air quality by encouraging drivers to use cleaner vehicles.

Where Does ULEZ Apply?

As of 2023 and still in place in 2025:

The ULEZ covers all London boroughs — this includes inner and outer London.
It operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, except on Christmas Day (25 December).

To see if your destination falls within the zone, use the TfL ULEZ postcode checker.

Emissions Standards

To avoid the ULEZ charge, your vehicle must meet the following emissions standards:

Vehicle Type	Minimum Emissions Standard
Petrol cars/vans	Euro 4 (usually vehicles registered from 2006)
Diesel cars/vans	Euro 6 (usually vehicles registered from 2015)
Motorcycles/scooters	Euro 3 (usually registered from 2007)
HGVs, buses, coaches	Must meet LEZ (Low Emission Zone) standards

Note: Classic vehicles over 40 years old that are tax-exempt are also ULEZ-exempt.

How Much is the ULEZ Charge?

£12.50 per day for most vehicle types (cars, motorcycles, vans under 3.5 tonnes).
Charges apply midnight to midnight, so crossing into ULEZ just before midnight may result in two charges.

How to Pay

Pay via:

TfL website
TfL app
Auto Pay (register to avoid forgetting a payment)

FAILURE TO PAY

Failure to pay can result in a £180 penalty charge notice (PCN), reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days.

How to Check Your Vehicle

Visit the official TfL ULEZ checker and enter your vehicle’s registration number.

Exemptions and Discounts

Residents: No ULEZ discount for residents (unlike the Congestion Charge).
Disabled drivers: Vehicles registered with a disabled tax class may be exempt until October 2027.
Minibuses for community transport: Temporary exemption until 2026.

Full list of exemptions: TfL exemptions and discounts

ULEZ vs Congestion Charge vs LEZ

Zone	Applies to	Area	Daily Charge
ULEZ	Most petrol/diesel vehicles	All London boroughs	£12.50
Congestion Charge	Central London only	Congestion zone	£15 (7am–6pm weekdays)
LEZ	HGVs, buses, larger vans	Greater London	Variable

Many drivers entering central London may need to pay both the ULEZ and Congestion Charge.

Tips for Visitors and Tourists

Renting a car? Most hire cars meet ULEZ standards — check with the provider.
Driving from abroad? Non-UK vehicles must register with TfL before entering.
Alternative transport: Consider using London’s extensive public transport system (Tube, buses, trains) to avoid charges.

Need Help with Parking or Driving Rules?

For detailed guidance on:

Where and how to park in London
Congestion Charge Zone details
Speed limits, bus lanes, and camera enforcement