Dartford Bridge Crossing and Dart Charge

The Dartford Crossing is an essential part of the UK's road network, connecting Essex and Kent via the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge and twin tunnels.

With over 150,000 vehicles crossing daily, it’s vital to understand how the Dart Charge works and what happens if you forget to pay.

What Is the Dartford Crossing?

The Dartford Crossing spans the River Thames east of London and is part of the M25 motorway. It consists of:

• Queen Elizabeth II Bridge: Southbound traffic.
• Two tunnels: Northbound traffic.

How to Pay the Dart Charge

The Dart Charge is a remote toll system with no physical booths. You must pay by midnight the day after you cross, or you could face a penalty.

Payment Methods:

• Online: Pay the Dart Charge.
• Phone: You can call 0300 300 0120 between 8 am and 8 pm to pay.
• Payzone stores: Can be paid at your nearest store.
• Post: Send advance payments to Dart Charge Customer Services, PO Box 842, Leeds LS1 9QF.

You need to pay the charge if you use the Dartford Crossing between 6am and 10pm - including at weekends and on bank holidays.

When paying you will need to know your vehicle registration number. If you are paying or contesting a fine, you will need the PCN reference number.

Dart Charge Fees

The fees for the Dart Charge vary slightly depending on the type of vehicle you are driving.

Please note: the prices in this table are accurate as of 10/01/2025. Check local signage for the latest fees.

If you live within the councils of Dartford or Turrock you are eligible to apply for a discounted rate.

It is also possible to pay a yearly rate of £20 for unlimited crossings, or £10 a year for 50 crossings.

Dart Charge Exemptions

You’re exempt from the Dartford Crossing fees and Dart Charge under the following conditions:

• Your vehicle is registered for free UK road tax due to disability.
• You’re crossing on a motorcycle, moped, or quad bike.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay Dartford Crossing Fee?

Failing to pay the Dart Charge results in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days.

If ignored, the fine increases to £105, plus the original toll fee.

Dartford Crossing Tips

To avoid any penalty fees, make sure you set up a prepaid account to save money and ensure timely payments. This is especially important if you make the crossing on a regular basis.

Remember, the Dart Charge applies between 6 am and 10 pm. Travelling overnight is toll-free.

If you want to avoid the crossing, consider the Woolwich Ferry (free) or the Blackwall Tunnel.

A Brief History of the Dartford Crossing

The Dartford Crossing has a fascinating history that reflects its importance to the UK’s transport network. Here are the key milestones:

• 1924: The first proposal for a Thames crossing near Dartford was made by the Ministry of Transport, initially suggesting a location between Tilbury and Gravesend.
• 1936-1938: Preliminary work began on the project but was halted due to World War II.
• 1959: Construction resumed after the war, focusing on a tunnel-based solution.
• 1963: The first tunnel opened, designed to handle two million vehicles per year. However, rapid economic growth quickly outpaced its capacity.
• 1980: A second tunnel opened, adding two more lanes and helping to manage increasing traffic.
• 1988: Construction of the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge began to further expand capacity.
• 1991: The bridge opened, becoming Europe’s longest cable-stayed bridge at the time. It provided four southbound lanes, while the tunnels handled northbound traffic.
• 2014: Toll booths were replaced by the Dart Charge system, utilising ANPR technology to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.

Dartford Tunnel Crossing FAQs

Is the Dartford Crossing free at night?

Yes, the toll is only enforced between 6 am and 10 pm.

Can I pay in advance?

Yes, you can pay up to 12 months before your journey.

What happens if I travel without paying?

You’ll receive a penalty charge notice, but you can appeal if issued unfairly.

Are there any exemptions to the Dart Charge?

Yes. Vehicles with free UK road tax due to disability and motorcycles, mopeds, or quad bikes are exempt from the charge.

Do electric cars pay the Dart Charge?

Yes, electric vehicles (EVs) are required to pay the Dart Charge on the Dartford Crossing.