The 40-year rule
Is your car exempt?
Any vehicle 40 years old or over from its date of first registration is automatically exempt from London's £12.50-a-day ULEZ charge. Enter the registration year and we'll stamp your disc.
The small print, decoded
How the 40-year rule works
London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charges most vehicles £12.50 per day to drive within the zone. However, vehicles that are 40 years old or over from the date of first registration are automatically exempt under the historic vehicle exemption.
The threshold rolls forward every year — the moment a car turns 40, it stops paying. Right now that means anything first registered in 1985 or earlier qualifies. You don't need to apply — the exemption is automatic.
Key facts:
- The 40-year rule is based on date of first registration, not manufacture
- No application needed — TfL's cameras recognise exempt vehicles automatically
- Applies to all vehicle types: cars, motorcycles, vans
- The vehicle must have a valid MOT (if required) and road tax
- Applies to the entire ULEZ zone (all of Greater London since August 2023)