ULEZ vs Congestion Zone: What's the Difference?
Updated 1 March 2025
Many drivers confuse the ULEZ and the Congestion Charge Zone. They are two entirely separate schemes, administered by the same organisation (TfL) but covering different areas, different vehicles, and operating at different times.
What is the Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ)?
The Congestion Charge Zone covers approximately 21 km² of central London. It charges most motor vehicles a £15.00 daily fee for entering the zone during operating hours (7am–6pm weekdays, 12pm–6pm weekends).
The CCZ applies regardless of how clean or dirty your engine is. A brand-new electric car pays the same charge as a 20-year-old diesel — or at least since TfL removed the EV exemption in 2021.
What is the ULEZ?
The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) covers all of Greater London — 32 boroughs plus the City of London. It is based entirely on your vehicle’s emission standards, not where you’re driving.
The ULEZ charges £12.50 per day for cars and vans that do not meet Euro 6 (diesel) or Euro 4 (petrol) emission standards. Motorcycles must meet Euro 3. Vehicles that meet the standards are not charged, regardless of where they drive.
The ULEZ operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year, including bank holidays.
Key differences
| CCZ | ULEZ | |
|---|---|---|
| Area | Central London (~21 km²) | All of Greater London |
| Based on | Location during charge hours | Vehicle emission standards |
| Charge | £15.00/day | £12.50/day (if non-compliant) |
| Hours | 7am–6pm weekdays, 12pm–6pm weekends | 24/7, every day |
| EVs exempt? | No (since 2021) | Yes |
| Motorcycles | Exempt | Must meet Euro 3 |
| Bank holidays | No charge | Charge applies |
Can both charges apply?
Yes. If you drive a non-compliant petrol or diesel vehicle into the CCZ during charge hours, you can be charged both the £15 Congestion Charge and the £12.50 ULEZ charge on the same day — a total of £27.50.
Does paying the Congestion Charge cover ULEZ?
No. They are completely separate charges. Paying one does not exempt you from the other.
Is there also a LEZ?
Yes. The Low Emission Zone (LEZ) is a third scheme covering all of Greater London, targeting heavier vehicles (lorries, buses, coaches, larger vans). Most cars are not subject to LEZ charges. The LEZ also operates 24/7.