The Dartford Crossing is one of the busiest stretches of road in the UK. It connects the M25 between Dartford in Kent and Thurrock in Essex. Unlike most of the motorway network, you have to pay a charge for using it unless travelling during free hours. This guide explains how much it costs, how to pay, deadlines, penalties, ways to check your crossing history, and who is exempt.
What is the Dartford Crossing (M25 Dart Charge Explained)
The Dartford Crossing includes two tunnels and the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, carrying traffic across the Thames on the M25. Northbound journeys use the tunnels and southbound traffic uses the bridge.
Although toll booths were removed in 2014, the Dart Charge still applies. Drivers must pay online, by phone, or through an account.
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Dartford Crossing Charges 2025 – How Much Do You Pay Per Crossing?
Cars and Smaller Vehicles
£2.50 per journey
Two Axle Goods Vehicles
£3.00 per journey
Larger Vehicles and Minibuses
£6.00 per journey
Charges apply from 6am to 10pm every day. Crossings are free outside these hours.
Do You Pay Both Ways on the Dartford Crossing?
Yes. The Dart Charge applies each time you cross, regardless of direction.
Dartford Crossing Free Times – When Is It Free to Use?
The crossing is free from:
Free Hours
10pm to 6am
These free hours apply every day, including weekends and bank holidays.
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How to Pay Dartford Crossing Online, Phone or Account (Dart Charge Payment Methods)
There are several ways to pay:
1. Pay Online
You can pay through the official Government Dart Charge website before or after travelling.
2. Pay by Phone
Dart Charge customer service number (UK): 0300 300 0120
3. Set Up an Account
Regular users can open a Dart Charge account. Payments are taken automatically, and the rate is discounted.
4. Pay in Advance
You can prepay up to one year ahead.
How Long Do You Have to Pay Dart Charge After Using the Crossing?
Payment must be made by:
Deadline
Midnight the day after crossing
For example, if you cross on Monday, payment must be completed by 11.59pm on Tuesday.
Dartford Crossing Fines and Penalties – What Happens If You Do Not Pay?
If payment is not made, a Penalty Charge Notice will be issued. The standard fine starts at £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days. If ignored, it can rise to £105.
If you believe the penalty is incorrect, full appeal instructions will be included with the notice.
How to Check If You Paid Dartford Crossing – Online, Phone and Account Options
Drivers can confirm whether they have already paid in three ways:
1. Log in to Your Dart Charge Account
Payment history and deductions display instantly.
2. Use the Online Payment Check
If you paid manually, you can search by registration number.
3. Call Customer Service
You can request a payment check over the phone.
Dart Charge Customer Service Phone Number and Contact Details
If you have issues with payments, fines or account management, call:
Dart Charge helpline (UK): 0300 300 0120
Phone Support Can Help With
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Payment problems
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Confirming a recent payment
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Account updates
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Fine queries
Dartford Crossing Charge Times – When You Must Pay and When It Is Free
Charge Applies
6am to 10pm daily
Free Period
10pm to 6am
Where Is the Dartford Crossing Located on the M25?
The crossing is located on the eastern stretch of the M25 between:
Junctions
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Junction 31 in Essex
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Junction 1A/1B in Kent
It crosses the Thames between Dartford and Thurrock.
Dart Charge Exempt Vehicles – Who Does Not Need to Pay?
You do not need to pay the Dart Charge if you are driving:
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Emergency service vehicles
-
Military vehicles
-
Motorcycles
-
Disabled drivers with valid exemption
Foreign vehicles must also pay unless exempt.
Can You Cancel or Get a Refund for Dartford Crossing Payment?
If you paid but didn’t use the crossing, you can request a refund through customer service, although approval is not guaranteed.
Tips to Avoid Unpaid Charges and Dart Charge Fines
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Create a Dart Charge online account if you use the crossing often
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Always pay by midnight the next day
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Remember that no toll booths are present on the road
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Check your registration to confirm payment
Final Summary – Dartford Crossing Charges, Payments and Deadlines
The Dartford Crossing charge applies daily between 6am and 10pm. Payment can be made online, by phone, in advance or through an account. If you do not pay in time, a penalty notice will be issued. Because there are no longer booths on the crossing itself, many drivers forget to pay, so an online account is the easiest way to avoid fines.
This guide explains the main details UK drivers look for, including how much the crossing costs, how to pay, charging times, contact information, fine rules and how to check payment status.
FAQ – Dartford Crossing
Cars and small vehicles pay £2.50 for each crossing. Larger vans are £3.00 and large vehicles or minibuses are £6.00. The charge applies from 6am to 10pm every day.
The crossing is free between 10pm and 6am. These free hours apply every day, including weekends and bank holidays.
Payment must be completed by midnight the day after travelling. If you do not pay by the deadline, a Penalty Charge Notice may be issued.
You can log in to your Dart Charge account, use the online payment checker with your vehicle registration, or call customer support to confirm.
Yes. The charge applies for every crossing in either direction, whether using the bridge or the tunnels.
