Dartford Crossing: Dart Charge 2026
Live charge status, full price table, payment options and how to avoid the £70 penalty. Updated from official GOV.UK data.
The Dartford Crossing carries the M25 across the River Thames on the eastern edge of London, connecting Kent (south) and Essex (north). There are no toll booths — the crossing uses ANPR cameras. You must pay either before or after crossing — not at the crossing itself.
Charges apply every day including weekends and bank holidays, between 06:00 and 22:00. Between 22:00 and 06:00 there is no charge. There is no Christmas free period — charges apply on Christmas Day if you cross between 06:00–22:00.
| Vehicle | Class | One-off / Pay-as-you-go | Prepay account |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorcycles, mopeds & quad bikes | A | FREE | FREE |
| Cars (incl. trailers), motorhomes, minibuses ≤9 seats | B | £3.50 | £2.80 |
| Buses, coaches, vans & goods vehicles — 2 axles | C | £4.20 | £3.60 |
| Buses, coaches, vans & goods vehicles — 3+ axles | D | £8.40 | £7.20 |
You can pay up to 30 days in advance or up to midnight on the day after crossing. Paying late beyond this results in a Penalty Charge Notice.
Dartford Crossing has been heavily searched in 2026 due to ongoing discussions about rising toll charges, news coverage of the proposed changes to the Dart Charge pricing structure, and the significant traffic disruption caused by incidents on the M25.
Dartford Crossing is free between 22:00 (10 PM) and 06:00 (6 AM) every night. Crossings during this window are free for all vehicles. Note: there is no Christmas Day free period at Dartford.
Yes — motorcycles, mopeds and quad bikes cross Dartford for free. No payment is required, no account is needed. This exemption applies permanently.