Classic car owners, in particular, could be exempt from paying the ULEZ fee based on specific criteria.

Transport for London (TfL) states that vehicles meeting the “historic vehicles” requirements can avoid the fee. The TfL website clarifies that “all vehicles that have a historic vehicle tax class are exempt from the ULEZ.” In alignment with the existing Low Emission Zone (LEZ) discount, vehicles constructed before January 1, 1973, are exempt from the ULEZ, regardless of commercial use.

To apply for ULEZ exemption with a classic vehicle, TfL advises applying with the DVLA to stop paying vehicle tax if the vehicle was built more than 40 years ago. The date for eligibility moves forward on a 40-year rolling system. For instance, when the ULEZ was launched in April 2019, vehicles built before 1979 were eligible to apply for the historic vehicle tax class.

While the ULEZ scrappage scheme provides financial assistance for eligible individuals, those who do not qualify may need to consider purchasing a vehicle that meets the emission standards or continue using their current vehicle and pay the ULEZ charge. Classic car owners with vehicles that meet the exemption criteria can enjoy the benefit of being ULEZ exempt. For more information and to apply for the exemption, individuals can visit the TfL website.