Millions of drivers in London will soon need to pay charges for using the Congestion Charge zone and the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels, but Transport for London (TfL) has outlined several discounts and exemptions for eligible motorists.
New Tunnel Charges from April 2025
Starting April 7, 2025, a new charge will be introduced for vehicles using the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels in East London. While most drivers will need to pay, some may qualify for discounts or full exemptions.
Who Qualifies for Discounts?
Eligible drivers can apply online for discounts, though applications must be approved before any reduction applies.
Key Discounts:
- Low-income East London residents: 50% discount for qualifying residents receiving certain benefits.
- Businesses near the tunnels: £1 discount per off-peak crossing for eligible companies enrolled in Auto Pay.
- Congestion Charge residents: 90% discount for those living within the Congestion Charge zone.
- Cleaner Vehicles: Fully electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles receive a 100% Congestion Charge discount but must still pay tunnel charges.
- Vehicles with 9+ seats: These qualify for a 100% discount on both the Congestion Charge and tunnel tolls.
Who is Fully Exempt?
Certain vehicles and services do not need to pay any charges and do not need to register for an exemption. These include:
- Motorcycles and mopeds
- Emergency service vehicles (ambulances, fire engines, police cars)
- NHS vehicles exempt from vehicle tax
- Vehicles registered for disabled persons
- Dial-a-Ride and community transport services for disabled passengers
- Breakdown recovery vehicles
- Certain vehicles used by HM Coastguard, Port Authorities, and the Armed Forces
Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs)
- Licensed black cabs (taxis): Exempt from both the Congestion Charge and new tunnel tolls.
- Private Hire Vehicles (PHVs): Not exempt, except for wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) when on a booking.
- Zero-emission PHVs: Will be exempt from tunnel charges if carrying out a booking.
How to Apply
Motorists who believe they qualify for a discount or exemption must apply through TfL’s official website and submit the necessary documents. Until approval, drivers must continue paying full charges to avoid penalties.
With the new tunnel tolls coming into effect in April 2025, drivers are encouraged to check their eligibility as soon as possible.
