What is London’s T-charge, when does the toxicity charge come into force and how can you avoid it?

FROM today you won't just have to shell out congestion charge to tootle about central London in your car, you may also have to fork out for the T-charge.

The latest tax on driving will effect those whose cars don't meet TFL's minimum emissions standard. But does you car meet the standards and what can you do if it doesn't?

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What is the T-charge?

The T-charge is a daily emissions surcharge for cars, vans, minibuses, coaches and heavy good vehicles in central London IF they don't meet TFL's minimum emissions standard.

It will operate in the same area as the congestion charging zone and will be in ADDITION to the compulsory £11.50 Congestion Charge for those driving in the designated area.

Like the congestion charge it will only be enforced between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

The charge will set you back £10 per day or £1 a day for vehicles registered to people who live in the zone.

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When does London's toxicity charge come into force?

The charge comes into force TODAY (October 23 2017) and will apply between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Bank holidays are excluded, along with the period between Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

How do I know if my car meets the T-charge minimum emissions standards?

TFL explain on their that the minimum emission standard for cars and vans is Euro 4.

If you drive a motorised tricycles or quadricycles, you're looking at Euro 3.

Don't know what these Euro rankings are? You're not alone.

You can find yours on your vehicle registration document - also known as a V5C.

But if you don't know where that is/can't be bothered to dig around for it, click  and input your license plate number.

The TFL helpful checker will then let you know if your vehicle will be subject to the charge.

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How can you avoid the T-charge?

Good question. If you do fall into the T-charge category, there are a few different ways we suggest you can avoid having to pay the additional daily charge:

• Become a taxi driver... that's right cabbies don't have to pay the congestion charge or the new T-charge as long as they are actively licensed with TFL.
• Get a vehicle within the minimum emissions standards or a historic tax class (so 40 years or older)... I know what you're thinking - what kind of money bags can do that? True. But bear it in mind for the next time you replace your car.
• Get a moped or motorbike... they are exempt and match it with a pair of leather trousers and you'll look really cool.
• Display your blue badge... we're not suggesting you go out and get yourself a disability, but if you happen to already qualify then you can add exemption from the T-charge to your list of perks.
• Walk, cycle or use public transport instead... this genius suggestion comes and we suppose it's kind of the point. Save yourself a tenner and leave the motor parked.
• You can also join a   as all car club vehicles meet the emission standard.

Failure to avoid the T-charge will result in a £130 fine, which is reduced to £65 if it's paid within 14 days.

Any more questions? Check out TFL's complete guide .

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