ULEZ compliance check
Quick ULEZ Compliance Check – Free & Instant
Check ULEZ compliance for your car, motorcycle, or foreign vehicle using our free ULEZ checker. Just enter your vehicle registration number (VRM) and get instant results. Our fast and accurate ULEZ compliance check helps you find out if your vehicle is ULEZ compliant—including options for motorcycle ULEZ checker and ULEZ foreign cars—so you can avoid fines and drive freely in the Ultra Low Emission Zone.
How does the ULEZ Checker Work?
Our smart and easy-to-use ULEZ checker helps you instantly find out if your vehicle is ULEZ compliant—no guesswork, no hassle. Just enter your vehicle registration number (VRM), and our system will scan official DVLA records to determine if your petrol, diesel, electric, hybrid, motorcycle, or even foreign car meets the required ULEZ emission standards in London. Whether you’re wondering what year petrol cars are ULEZ compliant, if your diesel car passes the Euro 6 standard, or whether your motorbike or foreign vehicle needs to pay the ULEZ charge—we’ve got you covered. This tool helps you avoid unnecessary fines and plan your journeys with peace of mind. Discover if your car qualifies as ULEZ exempt, see the list of ULEZ-friendly cars, and learn how to make your car ULEZ compliant. From ULEZ CO2 limits, ULEZ diesel rules, and 2025 updates, to ULEZ petrol regulations and Euro 4/Euro 6 emissions checks, our free ULEZ checker gives you everything you need—fast, accurate, and totally free.
How Does the ULEZ Compliance Check Work?
The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is a designated area in London, England, where vehicles must meet strict emissions standards to avoid paying a daily charge. This initiative aims to reduce pollution and improve air quality across the city.
Purpose and Location
Initially launched in Central London, the ULEZ has gradually expanded. As of 29 August 2023, it covers all London boroughs, making a ULEZ compliance check essential before entering the zone.
History
March 2015: ULEZ plans announced by then-Mayor Boris Johnson.
8 April 2019: Launched earlier than planned by Mayor Sadiq Khan.
October 2021: Expanded to the area between the North and South Circular roads.
August 2023: Now spans Greater London.
How Does the ULEZ Compliance Check Work?
To check if your car or van meets the standards, use the official ULEZ compliance check tool on this page. It instantly tells you whether your petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric vehicle qualifies under ULEZ emissions regulations.
Wondering what year cars are ULEZ compliant? As a general rule:
Petrol cars: Euro 4 standard (typically from 2006 onward)
Diesel cars: Euro 6 standard (usually from 2015 onward)
Electric cars: Fully ULEZ-exempt
Hybrid cars: Varies—run a quick check to confirm
ULEZ Charges
If your vehicle doesn’t pass the ULEZ compliance check, you may have to pay:
£12.50 daily for cars, motorcycles, and vans
£100 daily for lorries and buses
Can I Make My Car ULEZ Compliant?
Yes. You can:
Retrofit emissions tech (if supported)
Switch to a compliant or electric vehicle
Use scrappage schemes for cleaner upgrades
Impact and Use of Funds
Since the launch:
Non-compliant vehicles have decreased
Roadside pollution levels dropped
£224M in 2022 was reinvested into better transport and air quality projects
Which Cars Are Free to Drive in the ULEZ?
If you’re wondering how to check if a van is ULEZ compliant or whether your car is exempt from ULEZ charges, here’s a clear breakdown. To drive in London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) without paying a fee, your vehicle must meet strict ULEZ emissions standards. These standards are based on vehicle age, fuel type, and Euro emission rating.
Petrol Cars
Must meet Euro 4 emissions standard.
Usually applies to cars registered after 2005.
Some earlier models may still qualify — it’s best to check if your petrol car is ULEZ compliant using the ULEZ checker.
Diesel Cars
Must meet Euro 6 emissions standard.
Typically applies to cars registered after September 2015.
Unsure if your diesel car is ULEZ compliant? Use the checker tool to confirm.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Fully electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions.
All EVs are exempt from ULEZ charges, making them ideal ULEZ compliant cars.
Hybrid Cars
Must meet Euro 4 (petrol) or Euro 6 (diesel) standards.
Many ULEZ hybrid cars qualify, but always confirm with a ULEZ check.
Historic Vehicles
Vehicles over 40 years old, registered as “historic,” are automatically exempt.
Ideal for vintage car owners concerned about ULEZ rules.
Blue Badge Holders
Some may qualify for ULEZ exemptions or discounts.
Note: the vehicle must still meet ULEZ standards; exemptions aren’t automatic.
Specialist Vehicles
Some agricultural, military, and non-road going vehicles may be exempt from ULEZ.
Want to know if your car is ULEZ compliant? Use our ULEZ Checker Tool by entering your vehicle registration. It’s the fastest way to check if your car, van, or diesel vehicle meets ULEZ standards.
ULEZ Frequently asked questions
What is the London ULEZ?
The London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is a regulated area where vehicles must meet strict emission standards or pay a daily charge to drive. Introduced to tackle London’s air pollution, the ULEZ targets high-emission vehicles and encourages cleaner alternatives.
Purpose of the ULEZ
The primary goal of the ULEZ is to improve air quality by reducing the number of polluting vehicles on London’s roads.
ULEZ Operating Hours
The ULEZ is active 24/7, 365 days a year, including weekends and bank holidays — with the only exception being Christmas Day (25 December).
ULEZ Coverage Area
As of the most recent expansion, the ULEZ covers all 32 London boroughs, but it does not include the M25 motorway.
ULEZ Charges
If your vehicle doesn’t meet the ULEZ standards and isn’t exempt, here’s what you’ll need to pay:
£12.50 per day for:
Cars
Motorcycles
Vans (up to 3.5 tonnes)
Minibuses (up to 5 tonnes)
For larger vehicles like lorries, coaches, and buses, the ULEZ charge doesn’t apply, but you may need to pay the LEZ (Low Emission Zone) charge if they don’t meet LEZ standards.
Non-UK Registered Vehicles
Even foreign-registered vehicles must meet ULEZ standards or pay the charge. These vehicles need to be registered with TfL’s partner, EPC plc, regardless of compliance.
ULEZ Expansion
The ULEZ now spans across Greater London, significantly increasing its impact on reducing CO2 emissions and encouraging ULEZ-compliant vehicles.
How Can I Check if My Car Is ULEZ Compliant?
If you’re planning to drive in London, it’s essential to know whether your vehicle meets the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) standards. Here’s how to check if your car, van, or other vehicle is ULEZ compliant quickly and accurately.
Use Our ULEZ Checker Tool
The fastest and most reliable way to determine your vehicle’s compliance is by using our ULEZ checker:
Enter your vehicle’s registration number.
Instantly find out if your car meets ULEZ emissions standards.
See if you need to pay any daily ULEZ charges.
This tool works for petrol, diesel, hybrid, electric, and even non-UK registered vehicles.
Understand ULEZ Emission Standards
ULEZ compliance is based on your vehicle’s Euro emission standard. Here’s a general guide:
Petrol Cars: Must meet Euro 4 standards (typically registered after 2005).
Diesel Cars: Must meet Euro 6 standards (typically registered after September 2015).
Wondering how to make your car ULEZ compliant? Upgrades may be possible for some vehicles, but for many, replacing with a compliant vehicle is more cost-effective.
Check Your V5C Logbook
You can find your car’s Euro emissions rating in your V5C logbook. It’s listed under section D.2 or D.3.
Contact the Vehicle Manufacturer
If your emission standard isn’t listed, get in touch with the manufacturer. Provide your VIN number or registration for a detailed breakdown of your vehicle’s compliance status.
Exemptions from ULEZ Charges
Some vehicles are ULEZ exempt, including:
Fully electric cars
Historic vehicles over 40 years old
Certain disabled passenger vehicles
Wondering are petrol cars exempt from ULEZ? Most aren’t, but if your petrol vehicle is Euro 4 or newer, it may be ULEZ friendly.
Know the ULEZ Boundary
You only need to pay if you drive within the ULEZ zone. Check the ULEZ map to avoid unnecessary charges.
Key Takeaways
Check car is ULEZ compliant with your reg number.
Petrol = Euro 4+ | Diesel = Euro 6+
Use your V5C logbook or contact your car manufacturer.
Learn how to make old car ULEZ compliant if possible.
Explore ULEZ compliant diesel cars, ULEZ petrol rules, or ULEZ friendly hybrids.
Where is the ULEZ?
The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) covers most of London, and driving a non-compliant car within this zone means daily charges.
ULEZ Expansion Timeline:
Central London (2019) – Same area as the Congestion Charge Zone.
Inner London (2021) – Expanded to the North and South Circular roads (A406 & A205).
Greater London (2023) – Now includes all 32 London boroughs.
Note: The M25 motorway is not part of the ULEZ.
Not Sure If You’re in the Zone?
Use our ULEZ map & checker tool to:
See if your route falls within ULEZ.
Check if your car, van, diesel or petrol vehicle is compliant.
Avoid unexpected ULEZ charges.
Whether you’re wondering how to make your car ULEZ compliant, or what year diesel or petrol cars are ULEZ approved — we’ve got you covered.
How do I know if I have to pay the ULEZ charge?
If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is ULEZ compliant or if you need to pay the ULEZ charge, you’re not alone. Here’s how to quickly find out and avoid unnecessary fines.
Check If Your Vehicle Is ULEZ Compliant
To see if your van, car, or motorcycle meets the ULEZ standards:
Use the official ULEZ vehicle checker tool.
Check your vehicle’s Euro emissions standard (Euro 4 for petrol, Euro 6 for diesel).
Make sure your car falls within the list of ULEZ-compliant vehicles.
What Cars Are ULEZ Compliant?
Petrol cars registered after 2005 (Euro 4) are usually compliant.
Diesel cars registered after September 2015 (Euro 6) are generally compliant.
Hybrid and electric vehicles are usually ULEZ-exempt.
Want a shortcut? Search for ULEZ compliant car list or ULEZ friendly cars.
How Much Is the ULEZ Charge?
If your car isn’t compliant, you’ll need to pay £12.50 per day for cars, vans, and motorcycles, and £100 for heavier vehicles like lorries or buses.
How to Make Your Car ULEZ Compliant
Retrofit an approved emissions reduction system.
Switch to a ULEZ-approved vehicle (petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric).
Consider vehicle scrappage schemes available in London.
ULEZ Zone and Postcode Checker
Use a ULEZ postcode checker to see if your destination is in the zone.
Popular searches:
“Is Stanmore Station in the ULEZ zone?”
“London ULEZ map”
Motorcycles and Foreign Vehicles
Use the motorcycle ULEZ checker for two-wheelers.
Foreign cars also need to meet ULEZ standards — check using your registration documents.
How do I know if I’ve entered the ULEZ?
Knowing whether you’ve entered the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is essential to avoid unnecessary charges—especially if your vehicle isn’t ULEZ compliant. Here are the key ways to check:
1. Look for ULEZ Signage
As you approach the zone, you’ll see prominent road signs marked “ULEZ.” These signs are similar to the Congestion Charge signs and are placed at all entry points. Stay alert, particularly when driving in central and Greater London areas.
2. Use Online Maps or Navigation Apps
Most GPS apps and online mapping services (like Google Maps or Waze) now include ULEZ boundary overlays. Plan your route in advance and check if it passes through a ULEZ zone.
3. Try Our ULEZ Postcode Checker
If you’re wondering whether a specific location falls within the ULEZ, our ULEZ postcode checker allows you to enter an address or postcode to instantly check.
4. Know the ANPR Camera Zones
ULEZ areas are monitored with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras. If your number plate is captured by one, it means you’ve entered the zone—even if you didn’t spot any signs.
5. Use the ULEZ Vehicle Checker Tool
Not sure if you were inside the ULEZ on a given date? Use the vehicle ULEZ checker tool on this page. Just enter your registration number and travel date—it will tell you if your journey triggered the charge.
6. Carry a Physical Map (Optional)
Printed maps showing ULEZ boundaries are available at local council offices or tourist centres. They’re also downloadable online if you prefer a non-digital reference.
Avoid Penalties – Always Double-Check
If your car or van isn’t ULEZ compliant, make sure to pay the charge by midnight on the third day following your trip. Use the tools above to check your journey and avoid receiving a penalty charge notice.
Have questions about compliance? Visit our ULEZ Compliant Cars Guide or explore ULEZ diesel and petrol car lists for more info.
How much is the ULEZ charge?
The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charge depends on the type and weight of your vehicle. If your vehicle doesn’t meet ULEZ compliance standards, you must pay a daily charge when driving within the ULEZ zone. Here’s a breakdown of current charges:
Cars, Motorcycles, and Small Vans (Up to 1.205 tonnes unladen weight)
Motorcycles, Mopeds, Tricycles, and Quadricycles: £12.50 per day
Cars (Petrol & Diesel): £12.50 per day
Small Vans (Petrol & Diesel): £12.50 per day
Larger Vans, Minibuses & Specialist Vehicles (1.205 – 3.5 tonnes GVW)
Diesel Vans (over 1.205 tonnes): £12.50 per day
Diesel Minibuses (over 8 seats, under 5 tonnes): £12.50 per day
Lorries, Buses & Coaches (Over 3.5 tonnes GVW)
Diesel Lorries: £100 per day
Diesel Buses & Coaches: £100 per day
Note: The ULEZ operates 24/7, every day of the year except Christmas Day. Charges must be paid by midnight on the third day after travel to avoid fines.
ULEZ & Congestion Charge
If you enter the Congestion Charge zone during its hours of operation, you’ll need to pay both charges if your vehicle is not ULEZ compliant.
Check If Your Vehicle is ULEZ Compliant
Not sure if your car, van, or motorcycle meets the ULEZ standards? Use the ULEZ Checker Tool on this page to instantly see if your vehicle is compliant and how much you need to pay.
Where does the ULEZ charge apply?
The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charge applies to designated areas within London where vehicles must meet strict emissions standards to avoid daily charges. Knowing where the ULEZ applies is essential for anyone driving through the capital—especially those wondering how to check if a van is ULEZ compliant or what cars need to pay ULEZ.
Initial Coverage
When first introduced, the ULEZ covered Central London, mirroring the same zone as the Congestion Charge area.
Expansion in 2021
On 25 October 2021, the zone expanded to include areas within the North and South Circular roads, increasing the number of vehicles affected. This meant more people had to verify if their car is ULEZ compliant—whether petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric.
Expansion in 2023
On 29 August 2023, the ULEZ zone was further extended to all of Greater London. It now reaches the boundaries of the 32 London boroughs, affecting many more drivers and vehicles, including those unsure what year cars are ULEZ compliant or whether their diesel car is ULEZ compliant.
Exceptions and Navigation
While the ULEZ now covers nearly all of London, there are minor deviations in the boundary to accommodate diversionary routes and turning points—so some vehicles can still avoid charges if routed carefully.
If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s status or route, use our ULEZ checker tool to check if your car is ULEZ compliant or learn how to make an old car ULEZ compliant.
How is the ULEZ enforced?
The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) is strictly enforced using advanced technology to ensure that only compliant vehicles drive within the zone. Here’s a breakdown of how enforcement works:
ANPR Camera System
The ULEZ is monitored by Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras placed at entry/exit points and key locations within the zone. These cameras capture number plates as vehicles move through the area.
Real-Time Vehicle Compliance Check
Captured number plates are instantly cross-referenced with a central database to check if:
The vehicle meets ULEZ emissions standards (e.g., Euro 4 petrol, Euro 6 diesel).
The ULEZ charge has been paid for that day.
The vehicle is registered for a discount or exemption.
Not sure if your vehicle qualifies? Check if your car or van is ULEZ compliant here.
Penalty Charges (PCNs)
If your vehicle doesn’t meet the required emissions standards and you haven’t paid the ULEZ charge by midnight on the third day, you’ll receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN):
£180 for motorcycles, cars, and vans (£90 if paid within 14 days).
£1,000 for lorries, buses, and coaches (£500 if paid within 14 days).
Repeat Offenders
Drivers who repeatedly fail to comply may face additional enforcement like legal action or vehicle impoundment.
Exemptions and Discounts
Some ULEZ-compliant vehicles, including electric and hybrid models, qualify for 100% discounts or exemptions. These are automatically identified via vehicle registration data.
Cross-Authority Data Sharing
Transport for London (TfL) may share vehicle data with other authorities—especially for cars registered outside the UK—to ensure ULEZ enforcement is consistent.
How do I pay the ULEZ charge?
Paying the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charge is simple and can be done through several official methods provided by Transport for London (TfL):
1. Online Payment
You can pay the ULEZ charge directly via the official TfL payment portal. Always use the official website to avoid fraudulent sites.
2. Auto Pay
Auto Pay automatically bills ULEZ, Congestion Charge, and LEZ fees each month. There are no extra registration or renewal costs. Set up Auto Pay through your TfL account.
3. TfL Pay to Drive in London App
The official TfL app (available on iOS and Android) allows you to:
Pay ULEZ, LEZ, and Congestion Charges
Enable Auto Pay
Check if your postcode or vehicle is in a charge zone
View your payment history
4. London Road User Charging Account
Create an account to manage:
Contact and vehicle details
Quick payments
Auto Pay for up to 5 vehicles (or use Fleet Auto Pay for more)
5. Pay by Phone
Call TfL’s 24/7 helpline:
UK: 0343 222 2222
International: +44 343 222 2222
Textphone (hearing impaired): 020 7649 9123
ULEZ Charges & Deadlines
Daily Charge: £12.50
(For cars, motorcycles, vans up to 3.5 tonnes, and minibuses up to 5 tonnes)Deadline: Pay by midnight on the third day after travel to avoid a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
Helpful Tools
Check if your car or van is ULEZ compliant using the ULEZ Checker.
Wondering how to make your car ULEZ compliant or what year vehicles are exempt? Use the checker for clarity on Euro 4 petrol, Euro 6 diesel, and electric car exemptions.
What cars are exempt from ULEZ?
Certain cars are exempt from ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charges because they meet specific emission standards or qualify for special exemptions. Below are the main categories of vehicles that do not have to pay ULEZ charges:
1. ULEZ Compliant Cars by Emission Standards
Petrol Cars: Must meet Euro 4 emissions standards (typically cars registered from 2006 onwards).
Diesel Cars: Must meet Euro 6 emissions standards (usually registered from September 2015 onwards).
To check if your car is compliant, use the official ULEZ vehicle checker tool.
Related searches:
how to check if a van is ulez compliant • check car is ulez compliant • ulez compliant petrol cars • what year cars are ulez compliant
2. Historic Vehicles
Cars that are over 40 years old and registered with the DVLA as ‘historic vehicles’ are exempt from ULEZ.
These vehicles must not be used for commercial purposes to qualify.
3. Disabled and Resident Exemptions
Vehicles registered with the DVLA as ‘Disabled’ or ‘Disabled Passenger Vehicles’ are exempt until 24 October 2027.
After this grace period, the vehicle must meet ULEZ emissions standards to remain exempt.
Blue Badge holders are not automatically exempt but may receive local council discounts or exemptions — always check with your local authority.
4. Ultra Low Emission Vehicles (ULEVs)
These are vehicles that emit less than 75g/km of CO2 and have at least a 20-mile electric-only range.
Many plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles fall under this category and are ULEZ compliant.
Are electric cars exempt from ULEZ?
Yes, all electric vehicles are fully exempt from ULEZ charges.
5. Specialist and Non-Road Vehicles
Some vehicle types may also be exempt, including:
Agricultural vehicles
Military vehicles
Certain mobile cranes and non-road-going vehicles
These exemptions depend on vehicle type and usage — always confirm with Transport for London (TfL).
How to Make Your Car ULEZ Compliant
If your car doesn’t meet the required emission standards, here are your options:
Upgrade or replace your vehicle with a ULEZ-compliant model.
Install a certified retrofit emissions reduction system (only applicable to some vehicles).
Consider switching to a ULEV or electric car.
Tip: Visit TfL’s official website or ULEZ checker to verify if your vehicle is compliant.
Final Notes:
Even if your car is exempt from ULEZ, it may still be subject to other charges, such as the London Congestion Charge. Always check before driving into Central London.