The Congestion Charge for PCO Cars in London

Most motor vehicles in London are subject to the city’s Congestion Charge – a fee for driving in heavy-traffic areas at certain times of the day. What can you expect to pay in Congestion Charge fees as a PCO vehicle driver operating in London?

What is the London Congestion Charge?

The London Congestion Charge is a daily fee of £15 for driving in central London during daytime hours. This applies to most combustion-engine vehicles on the road, including hybrid cars.

Certain vehicles, including breakdown or roadside recovery vehicles and Blue Badge holders, are exempt from the Congestion Charge, although they must pay a yearly £10 registration fee. Zero-emission vehicles are exempt at the moment, but as of December 2025 even zero-emission drivers will be required to pay.

The London Congestion Charge is enforced by Transport for London (TfL) and aims to reduce heavy traffic in the city centre.

What Time is the Congestion Charge in London?

The Congestion Charge is payable for driving in central London at the following times:

• Monday to Friday: 7am to 6pm
• Saturday and Sunday: 12pm to 6pm
• Bank holidays: 12pm to 6pm

Note that there is no Congestion Charge from Christmas Day to New Year’s Day.

Do PCO Drivers Pay the Congestion Charge?

As a private hire vehicle operator with a PCO licence, you are also subject to the congestion charge and must pay the daily £15 fee if you want to drive around central London. However, if you become an Addison Lee driver, we will cover your Congestion Charge fees, as well as many other expenses.

Addison Lee offers competitive rental rates and covers these driver costs, to help you maximise your earnings:

• Congestion Zone charges
• Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) fees
• Parking fees
• Vehicle insurance
• Maintenance and repairs

Find out more about becoming a PCO driver with Addison Lee, a premium London-based taxi, courier and private hire operator.