What is ULEZ? A Complete Guide for UK Drivers in 2025

Introduction

If you drive in London — or plan to — you’ve almost certainly heard about ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone). Designed to tackle air pollution, ULEZ is one of the most important changes to how UK drivers use their cars. But in 2025, the rules are tighter, the boundaries wider, and compliance checks are more important than ever.

In this guide, we’ll explain what ULEZ is, how it works in 2025, who needs to pay, and how to check if your car is compliant before you hit the road.

What is ULEZ?

ULEZ stands for Ultra Low Emission Zone. It’s a designated area where vehicles that don’t meet strict emissions standards must pay a daily charge to drive.

• Introduced in 2019 in Central London.
• Expanded in August 2023 to cover all London boroughs.
• As of 2025, it remains one of the largest clean air zones in Europe.

The aim? To reduce harmful emissions like nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and particulate matter, making the city cleaner and healthier.

Where Does ULEZ Apply in 2025?

• The ULEZ covers all London boroughs, inside and outside the North and South Circular.
• Signage clearly marks when you’re entering the zone.
• Unlike the Congestion Charge, ULEZ operates 24/7, 365 days a year (except Christmas Day).

👉 Other UK cities have introduced their own Clean Air Zones (CAZ), such as Birmingham, Bath, and Manchester. While not identical to ULEZ, they follow a similar principle.

What Vehicles Are Affected?

ULEZ charges apply if your vehicle doesn’t meet the required Euro emission standards:

• Cars, vans, minibuses, and motorbikes are all included.
• Heavy vehicles (lorries, buses, coaches) fall under the LEZ (Low Emission Zone) rules, which are separate.

✅ Vehicles Generally Exempt (ULEZ Compliant):

• Petrol cars: Euro 4 (registered after 2005, typically compliant after 2006).
• Diesel cars: Euro 6 (registered after September 2015).
• Motorcycles: Euro 3 (registered after July 2007).
• Electric cars: Always exempt.
• Historic vehicles (over 40 years old): Exempt.

❌ Vehicles Likely to Pay:

• Older petrol cars (pre-2006).
• Most diesels registered before September 2015.

How Much is the ULEZ Charge in 2025?

• £12.50 per day for cars, vans, and motorcycles.
• Non-compliance fines: £180 penalty notice (reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days).

How Do You Know if Your Car is ULEZ Compliant?

The easiest way is to use a vehicle checker tool. Enter your registration plate, and you’ll instantly see if your car meets ULEZ standards.

👉 Check Your Vehicle Now with CheckVehicle.ai

This check saves you from unwanted fines and helps plan whether you need to upgrade your car.

Exemptions & Discounts in 2025

Some exemptions still apply:

• Residents with Blue Badges (disabled drivers) may receive discounts or exemptions.
• London residents had temporary grace periods (ended in 2023).
• Historic vehicles (classic cars) remain exempt.

Why Does ULEZ Matter?

ULEZ isn’t just about fees; it’s about public health and climate goals.

• Air pollution contributes to around 4,000 premature deaths each year in London.
• Cleaner air means healthier lungs, fewer hospital admissions, and long-term environmental benefits.

ULEZ Beyond London

• Birmingham, Bath, Oxford, and Bristol have similar Clean Air Zones (CAZ).
• More cities are expected to introduce low-emission or zero-emission zones by 2030 as the UK moves towards its net zero goals.

Preparing for the Future

With the UK banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035, ULEZ is just the beginning. Drivers should start planning:

• Switching to ULEZ-compliant cars.
• Considering electric or hybrid alternatives.
• Factoring compliance into buying/selling decisions.

Key Takeaways for 2025

• ULEZ applies to all London boroughs, 24/7.
• Petrol cars must meet Euro 4; diesels must meet Euro 6.
• Non-compliant vehicles: £12.50 daily charge.
• Always check your car with a reg plate tool before driving.
• Similar zones are spreading across the UK.