Why do we have a ULEZ?

Poor air quality, mainly caused by polluting vehicles, is impacting the health of Londoners.

Air pollution increases the risk of life-changing illnesses such as cancer, asthma, lung disease and dementia in older people, even leading to thousands of Londoners dying prematurely each year.

How the ULEZ helps clear London's air

The aim of the ULEZ is to improve air quality by reducing the number of vehicles in London that don't meet emissions standards.

94% of vehicles seen driving in the current zone now meet the strict emissions standards on an average day, significantly higher than the 39% in 2017 when the ULEZ was first announced. This has helped to reduce harmful nitrogen dioxide pollution by nearly half in central London.

Despite this progress, more needs to be done, as air pollution is not just a central London problem. In fact, the greatest number of deaths related to air pollution occur in outer London areas. That's why from 29 August 2023, the ULEZ will expand across all London boroughs, to help give the five million Londoners in outer boroughs clearer air too breathe.

Where the money goes

All money received from the scheme is reinvested into improving London's transport network, such as expanding bus routes in outer London.

Check if your vehicle meets the standards

More than four out of five vehicles already meet the emissions standards. To see if your vehicle meets the ULEZ emissions standards, use our vehicle checker.

Alternative transport options

To help clear London's air, you are advised to use a vehicle that meets the emissions standards for essential journeys rather than pay the charge or, where possible, use public transport, walk or cycle.

If you choose to replace your vehicle for one that meets the emissions standards, you do not need to buy a brand new or electric vehicle. Most petrol vehicles under 16 years old or diesel vehicles under 6 years old already meet the emissions standards.

Cycling and walking

People who walk or cycle 20 minutes a day as part of their regular journeys feel improved mental and physical wellbeing. Look out for cycle lanes and wider pavements so you can walk or cycle more safely. Find out more about cycling in London.

Public transport

Choosing the bus, Tube, Elizabeth line, DLR, London Overground and tram is good value for money and a more sustainable way to travel all over London. Travel off-peak for the best value fare, and check the cost of your journey before you travel. The Mayor of London and TfL are also planning to expand bus routes in outer London to make travelling by public transport even easier.

Download the TfL Go app on the Apple Store or Google Play for live travel updates and to find quiet times to travel.

Taxis and private hire vehicles

We've also been working to help make taxi and private hire vehicles cleaner. This is supported by delicensing payments and grant payments for those making the switch to zero-emission vehicles.

Car clubs

Car clubs give members access to locally parked cars by paying by the minute, hour or day. They can offer a flexible, convenient alternative to private car ownership or leasing.

All car club vehicles in London meet the ULEZ emissions standards and many now operate electric or hybrid vehicles, which can help further reduce emissions and improve air quality. Find out more about car clubs and the companies that provide them.

Considering getting rid of your car? See the cost of driving.

Offers and promotions

To help clear the city's air and support Londoners through the ULEZ expansion, the Mayor of London's £110 million scrappage scheme is providing financial assistance to help take the most polluting vehicles off the road.

Eligible Londoners on low-income or disability benefits, as well as London-based sole traders and businesses with up to 10 employees and registered charities, can now apply to receive a payment to scrap or retrofit their vehicles.

Several organisations are also providing offers and promotions to support more sustainable ways to travel for all Londoners.