You need to pay the Congestion Charge unless the vehicle you’re driving is eligible for specific discounts or exemptions, all of which only take effect after you’ve applied to TfL online.
For example, residents living within a set discount zone qualify for 90% off the cost, while Blue Badge holders can register for a 100% discount for up to two vehicles.
You can also get a 100% discount if your vehicle has nine or more seats. If you have a pure-electric car or a hydrogen fuel-cell car, you should be eligible for a 100% ‘cleaner vehicle’ discount, although this will be discontinued from 25 December 2025.