Is my car ULEZ compliant?
If you're planning a trip into or around London you need to be aware of the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone), how it will impact your journey and if your car is compliant with these new regulations. Below we've put together some handy information on the subject, so read on and continue planning your adventure.
What is ULEZ?
ULEZ stands for the Ultra Low Emissions Zone and as of the 29th of August 2023, it will cover all of the London Boroughs. The aim of the ULEZ is to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles driving in the area and to help clean up London's air. If you are driving a non-compliant vehicle within the ULEZ you will have to pay a daily charge of £12.50, the revenue of which will go towards improving and expanding London's public transport system. The ULEZ operates, 24/7, 365 days a year with the exception of Christmas Day and if you fail to pay the charge when required you run the risk of additional penalty charges.
How can I tell if my car is ULEZ compliant?
Depending on the type of car you drive there are different rules for compliance, below are some guidelines to follow but if you aren't sure you can enter your car registration number on the Transport For London website.
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ULEZ Compliant Petrol Cars
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Must be compliant with Euro 4, 5 or 6 emissions standards
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Normally registered after January 2006
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ULEZ Compliant Diesel Cars
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Must be compliant with Euro 6 emissions standards
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Normally registered after September 2015
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ULEZ Compliant Electric/Hybrid Cars
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Hybrids with petrol engines must be compliant with Euro 4 emissions standards
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Hybrids with diesel engines must be compliant with Euro 4 emissions standards
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ULEZ Compliant Vans
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Petrol vans must be compliant with Euro 4 emissions standards
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Diesel vans must be compliant with Euro 6 emissions standards
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ULEZ Compliant Motorbikes
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Motorbikes must be compliant with Euro 3 emissions standards
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Can I make my car compliant?
While possible, the process would be very costly as it would involve replacing the exhaust system and likely the engine too, as well as paying to have your vehicle re-certified by the DVSA, informing the DVLA and running a full rolling road emissions test at a Vehicle Certification Agency approved test facility.
ULEZ Exemptions
Some vehicles and their drivers may be eligible for a temporary or full exemption from the ULEZ charges.
'Disabled' and 'Disabled Passenger Vehicle' Tax Class grace period
Vehicles with the above tax classes have a grace period where they will not be required to pay the ULEZ charges until 25/10/27, providing the vehicle does not change tax period prior to this date.
Wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) grace period
Cars and vans with wheelchair accessibility that have been converted by mobility experts to allow access for driver or passenger are also eligible for temporary exemption. They will not be required to pay ULEZ charges until 25/10/27.
Disabled Benefits grace period
If you receive certain disability benefits or meet the medical criteria outlined here.
Taxis
Licensed London Taxis are exempt from ULEZ charges.
Historic Vehicles
Any vehicles built prior to a 40-year rolling period are exempt from the ULEZ charges, this doesn't include vehicles being used for commercial purposes.
You can get more information about these exemptions on the official Transport for London page.
More Useful ULEZ Information
ULEZ Expansion
ULEZ Charges