The M6 Toll is one of the UK’s few private motorways, designed to help drivers bypass the busiest part of the M6 near Birmingham. Below you’ll find the latest toll prices, payment options, exemptions, and practical tips to decide if it’s worth using.
M6 Toll Prices for 2025
Current toll charges depend on how far you travel and what type of vehicle you’re driving.
Here are the prices:
|
Vehicle Type |
One Zone |
Two Zones |
Full Road |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Car |
£4.40 |
£7.00 |
£8.70 |
|
Van |
£6.50 |
£9.30 |
£12.00 |
|
HGV |
£9.80 |
£13.20 |
£16.70 |
Prices are subject to change — always check the official M6toll.co.uk site for updates.
The road is split into three main zones. Drivers pay based on how many zones they pass through, with cameras automatically detecting your entry and exit points.
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How to Pay the M6 Toll
The M6 Toll operates with automatic number plate recognition, so there are no cash booths. Payments can be made in several convenient ways:
-
Contactless card: Tap your card at the exit barrier.
-
Online: Pay later via M6toll.co.uk/pay if you didn’t pay at the barrier.
-
Breeze account: Prepaid online account that offers small discounts and automatic payments.
Setting up a Breeze account:
-
Visit the Breeze section of the M6 Toll website.
-
Create an account with your registration number.
-
Add credit or set up auto top-up.
-
Drive through — the system deducts the charge automatically.
This is the easiest method for frequent users, especially business or lease drivers who use the toll often.
Are There Discounts or Exemptions?
Some users qualify for partial or full exemptions:
-
Disabled Blue Badge holders can apply for a full exemption by registering their vehicle in advance on the M6 Toll website.
-
Emergency services vehicles are exempt from toll fees.
-
Breeze account users save about 5–10% per journey on average, depending on vehicle class.
It’s always best to confirm exemption eligibility with the official website before travelling.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay the M6 Toll?
If you miss a payment, the toll operator will contact the registered vehicle owner. Unpaid charges must be settled within 48 hours to avoid a fine.
Failure to pay results in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), which can reach up to £100 plus the original toll fee. Payments can still be made online after receiving the notice, but it’s always cheaper and easier to pay immediately.
Is It Worth Using the M6 Toll?
Whether the M6 Toll is worth it depends on your journey time and tolerance for traffic.
|
Route |
Average Time |
Congestion Level |
Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
|
M6 Toll |
45–50 mins |
Low |
£8.70 |
|
M6 |
1 hr 15 mins |
High |
Free |
For drivers heading north or south past Birmingham, the M6 Toll often saves 25–45 minutes during rush hour. For occasional trips, the cost may not justify it, but for regular motorway drivers, the time saved can be worthwhile.
If you travel the motorway frequently, leasing a car could reduce your long-term costs and maintenance expenses. View our latest car leasing deals to find a vehicle suited for efficient motorway driving.
Where Does the M6 Toll Start and End?
The M6 Toll runs for around 27 miles (43 km), bypassing the most congested stretch of the M6 through Birmingham.
-
Start: Junction 11A (near Cannock)
-
End: Junction 3A (Coleshill, connecting to M42)
The toll joins and leaves the main M6 at both ends, making it a smooth alternative for through traffic.
Who Owns the M6 Toll?
The M6 Toll is operated by Midland Expressway Limited, owned by Aleatica S.A.U., an international transport infrastructure group based in Madrid, Spain. The company maintains the road and sets toll rates, with revenue used to fund operations, maintenance, and future upgrades.
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FAQs About M6 Toll Road
No, cash payments are no longer accepted. You can pay contactless or online.
Yes, if registered in advance via the M6 Toll website.
Usually, yes. During busy hours, it can save up to 45 minutes.