Congestion Charge & Low Emission Zone Guide (UK & Europe, 2026)
Do you need to pay or register to drive into London, Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow, Paris, German cities or other European low-emission zones? Charges, which cars must pay, stickers and how to pay — updated for 2026.
How to use
- 1Find the city in the table.
- 2Check whether your vehicle meets the emission standard (usually Euro 4 petrol / Euro 6 diesel in the UK).
- 3Pay or register on the official site before you travel — fines are issued automatically by camera.
Frequently asked questions
Do electric cars pay London's Congestion Charge in 2026?
Yes, a reduced amount. The full exemption ended on 25 December 2025; electric cars registered for Auto Pay now get a 25% Cleaner Vehicle Discount (£13.50 instead of £18). EVs still don't pay ULEZ.
Which cars are charged in UK Clean Air Zones?
Generally petrol cars older than Euro 4 (about 2006) and diesel cars older than Euro 6 (about September 2015). Use the government's vehicle checker with your registration.
Do foreign cars need to register?
Often yes — France requires a Crit'Air sticker, Germany a green Umweltplakette, and Belgium, the Netherlands and others need advance registration or meet standards checked by camera. Fines can follow you home through cross-border enforcement.