Avoid a £70 Fine! – The Dartford Crossing Charge, commonly known as the Dart Charge, is a toll fee required for vehicles crossing the Dartford-Thurrock River Crossing, which includes the Dartford Tunnel and Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. Unlike traditional toll booths, the Dart Charge must be paid online or through other payment methods before or shortly after crossing. Failing to pay on time can result in a £70 fine, making it crucial to understand how to pay efficiently and avoid unnecessary penalties.
Avoid a £70 Fine!
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Dart Charge Cost | £2.50 for cars, £3.00 for two-axle goods vehicles, £6.00 for larger vehicles |
| When to Pay? | Before crossing or by midnight the day after |
| Penalty for Late Payment | £70 fine, reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days; increases to £105 after 28 days |
| Payment Methods | Online, Mobile App, Phone, Payzone Retail Stores |
| Exemptions | Motorcycles, disabled tax-exempt vehicles, emergency vehicles |
| Official Website | gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge |
Paying the Dartford Crossing Charge is simple and can be done in seconds using online payment options, the Caura app, phone, or Payzone retailers. Setting up auto-pay can help frequent travelers save money and avoid penalties. Ensure timely payment to avoid unnecessary fines and a hassle-free journey.
What is the Dartford Crossing Charge?
The Dartford Crossing is one of the busiest routes in the UK, linking Essex and Kent across the River Thames. The Dart Charge was introduced to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow by removing physical toll booths. However, this means drivers must pay the fee online or through other payment methods.
The charge applies daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, including weekends and bank holidays. No charge is required overnight.
How Much is the Dart Charge?
The cost depends on the type of vehicle:
- Cars, motorhomes, and small minibuses: £2.50 per crossing.
- Two-axle goods vehicles: £3.00 per crossing.
- Multi-axle goods vehicles: £6.00 per crossing.
- Motorcycles: Free.
Who is Exempt from the Dart Charge?
Some vehicles are exempt from paying the Dart Charge, including:
- Motorcycles, mopeds, and quad bikes
- Vehicles exempt from UK vehicle tax due to disability
- Emergency vehicles (police, ambulance, fire service)
- Local bus services registered with the scheme
If you qualify for an exemption, you must register your vehicle on the official government website.
How to Pay the Dartford Crossing Charge in Seconds
To avoid fines, use these quick and easy payment methods:
1. Pay Online
The fastest and easiest way to pay the Dart Charge is via the official Dart Charge website: gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge.
Steps to Pay Online:
- Visit the official payment portal.
- Enter your vehicle registration number.
- Choose the date of travel and select the appropriate charge.
- Complete the payment using a debit/credit card or PayPal.
- You’ll receive a confirmation email as proof of payment.
2. Use the Mobile App (Caura App)
Another quick way to pay is through the Caura app:
- Download the Caura app (iOS / Android)
- Select ‘Roads and Tolls’, then ‘Dart Charge’.
- Enter your vehicle details and pay instantly.
- No extra fees are charged for using the app.
3. Pay by Phone
For those who prefer to pay via phone, call the Dart Charge contact center at:
0300 300 0120 (Open from 8 AM to 8 PM, Monday-Sunday).
4. Pay in Person at a Payzone Retail Store
If you prefer paying in cash, visit any Payzone retail store. To locate the nearest Payzone store, check their store locator.
5. Setting Up Auto-Pay for Frequent Users
If you frequently use the Dartford Crossing, consider setting up a Dart Charge Auto-Pay Account. This system automatically deducts the charge each time you cross, helping you avoid forgetting payments and benefiting from discounts.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay the Dart Charge?
If you fail to pay the Dart Charge by midnight the day after crossing, you will receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
Dart Charge Fine Structure:
- £70 fine – If not paid on time.
- £35 fine – If paid within 14 days.
- £105 fine – If unpaid within 28 days.
- Debt collection agencies or court action may be taken for persistent non-payment.
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FAQs About Avoid a £70 Fine!
1. Can I set up automatic payments for the Dart Charge?
Yes! You can create a Dart Charge account for automatic payments. This ensures you never miss a payment and receive discounted rates.
2. What if I enter the wrong vehicle details when paying?
If you made an error while paying, contact Dart Charge customer support immediately at 0300 300 0120 to correct the details.
3. Can I appeal a Dart Charge fine?
Yes, you can appeal if you believe the fine was issued incorrectly. Visit gov.uk/appeal-dart-charge-penalty for guidance on how to challenge a PCN.
4. Are there alternative routes to avoid the Dart Charge?
Yes, but they may be less convenient. Alternative free crossings include the Blackwall Tunnel (East London) or M25 over the Thames at Reading.
5. Can I pay for multiple crossings in advance?
Yes, you can pre-pay for crossings up to one year in advance via your Dart Charge account.
