Dartford Crossing Fees Are Rising: If you regularly drive between Kent and Essex, you’re likely familiar with the Dartford Crossing – one of the UK’s busiest and most important road links. As of 2024 and beyond, Dartford Crossing fees are rising, and it’s crucial to understand what this means for your commute, budget, and business operations. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a small business owner, or just planning a one-off trip, this guide explains everything you need to know in simple terms — including who’s affected, how much you’ll pay, how to avoid fines, and ways to save.
Dartford Crossing Fees Are Rising
The rise in Dartford Crossing fees may be modest, but they can add up quickly for daily drivers and business operators. Understanding how and when to pay — and taking advantage of discounts — can save you money and prevent fines. By setting up a pre-pay account and staying on top of payment deadlines, you’ll ensure smooth and stress-free travel across this vital route.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| New Toll Charges (2024) | – Cars: £2.50- Vans: £3.00- HGVs: £6.00- Motorbikes: Free (gov.uk) |
| Discounts | Pre-pay accounts save up to 20%; Local residents can pay £10/year for 50 crossings or £20 for unlimited |
| Payment Deadline | Midnight the day after using the crossing |
| Penalty for Non-Payment | £70 (reduced to £35 if paid in 14 days, increased to £105 if unpaid after 28 days) |
| Payment Methods | Online, by phone (0300 300 0120), Payzone outlets, or by post |
| Operating Hours | Charges apply 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, 7 days a week |
| Official Source | GOV.UK Dart Charge |
What Is the Dartford Crossing?
The Dartford Crossing is made up of the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge (southbound) and two northbound tunnels, forming a key part of the M25 – London’s orbital motorway. It connects Dartford in Kent with Thurrock in Essex, allowing vehicles to cross the River Thames.
More than 180,000 vehicles use it daily, making it one of Europe’s busiest crossings.
Originally funded through tolls, the charge has remained in place to cover ongoing maintenance and congestion management. In 2014, the system switched to a free-flow, cashless payment system called the Dart Charge.
Who Needs to Pay?
Anyone using the Dartford Crossing between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM must pay the Dart Charge — unless your vehicle qualifies for an exemption.
Vehicles that must pay:
- Cars
- Vans and pickups
- Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs)
- Minibuses and coaches
- Motorhomes
Exempt from paying:
- Motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters
- Disabled drivers (with vehicles exempt from UK vehicle tax)
- Emergency services vehicles
- Military vehicles
What Are the New Dartford Crossing Fees?
The following charges apply per crossing:
| Vehicle Type | Standard Charge | Pre-Pay Account Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycles, Mopeds, Scooters | Free | Free |
| Cars, Small Vans, Motorhomes | £2.50 | £2.00 |
| Two-Axle Goods Vehicles | £3.00 | £2.63 |
| Multi-Axle Goods Vehicles (HGVs) | £6.00 | £5.19 |
How to Pay the Dartford Crossing Fees?
You must pay the Dartford Crossing Fees by midnight the day after you cross. There are four main ways to pay:
1. Pay Online
Visit gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge. You’ll need your vehicle registration and card details.
2. Set Up a Pre-Pay Account
This is ideal for regular users. You’ll get:
- Up to 20% discount
- Automatic payments
- No risk of missing deadlines
3. Pay by Phone
Call the Dart Charge helpline on 0300 300 0120 (open Monday–Sunday, 8am–8pm).
4. Pay in Person
Visit a Payzone outlet and provide your vehicle details.
Local Resident Discount Scheme
If you live within Dartford or Thurrock Council areas, you can apply for discounted rates:
- £10 per year: 50 crossings
- £20 per year: Unlimited crossings
To qualify, you must:
- Live in a qualifying postcode
- Have a registered vehicle at your address
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
Failure to pay on time leads to a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
- Initial fine: £70
- Reduced fine: £35 if paid within 14 days
- Increased fine: £105 if not paid within 28 days
The original toll must still be paid on top of the penalty. If you ignore the PCN, it could escalate to debt collection or court action.
How to Avoid Common Pitfalls?
Here’s how to avoid unnecessary charges:
- Set a reminder: If you’re a casual user, set a phone or calendar reminder to pay by midnight the next day.
- Use a pre-pay account: It’s the easiest way to avoid mistakes and save money.
- Check number plates: Make sure your plate is correctly registered when using the crossing, especially if you’re using a hire or company vehicle.
- Keep your account funded: Use auto top-up to avoid running out of funds.
The Bigger Picture – Why the Charges Are Rising
The increase in Dartford Crossing fees comes amid growing demands on infrastructure and traffic volumes. The tolls help:
- Maintain the bridge and tunnels
- Fund traffic management technology
- Reduce congestion
Plans for the Lower Thames Crossing, a new route between Essex and Kent, are in development to reduce pressure on the Dartford Crossing — but it’s still years from completion.
Dartford Crossing Payment; The Costly Mistake People Make When Paying the Dart Charge
Dart Charge Explained: When, How & Why You Must Pay the Dartford Crossing Fee
Avoid a £70 Fine! How to Pay the Dartford Crossing Charge in Seconds!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dartford Crossing Fees Are Rising
1. Can I pay the Dartford Charge in cash?
No. There are no cash booths at the crossing. All payments are electronic or through Payzone outlets.
2. Do I have to pay both ways?
Yes. You pay each time you use the crossing between 6am and 10pm, whether northbound or southbound.
3. Are there discounts for businesses?
Businesses can set up fleet accounts to manage multiple vehicles and benefit from automatic payments and consolidated invoices.
4. What happens if I drive a rental car?
You must pay the charge yourself unless the rental company includes it. Confirm with your provider and use your hire vehicle’s plate number to pay.
5. Is there any time the crossing is free?
Yes. Between 10pm and 6am, the crossing is free for all vehicles.
