ULEZ
ULEZ, the Ultra Low Emission Zone, is a daily charge for driving vehicles that do not meet emission standards anywhere in Greater London, separate from the Congestion Charge in central London. It is run by Transport for London and enforced by cameras that read number plates.
In practice
The zone began in central London in 2019, grew to the North and South Circular roads in 2021 and has covered all London boroughs since August 2023. Most petrol cars from the mid-2000s onwards and most diesel cars from about 2015 onwards meet the standard and pay nothing, but older vehicles pay a charge for every day they are driven in the zone. The Congestion Charge is a different, older scheme: a daily charge for driving in central London at set times, whatever the vehicle. A car can owe one, both or neither. Current amounts and hours are published by TfL.
Why it matters to newcomers
Before buying a used car or bringing one from abroad, check its registration on TfL's vehicle checker. Foreign-registered vehicles must be registered with TfL's contractor to be assessed. Missing a payment leads to a penalty notice sent to the keeper.
Related
- Oyster - the cheaper way into the centre
- Zones - fare zones, which are not the same as ULEZ
- Square Mile - inside the Congestion Charge zone
Sources: TfL: Ultra Low Emission Zone; TfL: Congestion Charge.