How to Pay Dart Charge Late (and Avoid Fines)
Missed the Dart Charge deadline? Don't panic. Thousands of drivers forget to pay for the Dartford Crossing every day. In this guide, we'll explain exactly what to do if you've forgotten to pay, how to reduce your penalty, and how to appeal if you think the fine is unfair.
⚠️ Important Deadlines
You must pay the Dart Charge by midnight the day after you cross. If you crossed on Monday, you have until midnight on Tuesday to pay. Missing this deadline results in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN).
What Happens If You Don't Pay?
If you miss the payment deadline, here's the timeline:
- Day of crossing: Free to cross, but clock is ticking
- Midnight next day: Payment deadline expires
- Within 28 days: You'll receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) for £70
- Within 14 days of receiving PCN: Pay reduced penalty of £35
- After 14 days: Full £70 penalty applies
- After 28 days: Penalty increases to £105
- Non-payment: Debt recovery action, potential court proceedings
Can I Still Pay After the Deadline?
Yes and no. Once the deadline has passed, you cannot simply make the £2.50 payment. The system automatically generates a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). However, you have options:
Option 1: Wait for the PCN and Pay Early
If you've missed the deadline, the best course of action is to wait for the PCN and pay within 14 days to get the reduced rate of £35 instead of £70. The PCN includes information on how to pay online, by phone, or by post.
Option 2: Appeal the Penalty
You can make a formal representation (appeal) against the PCN if you have valid grounds. Common successful appeals include:
- The vehicle was stolen at the time of crossing
- You weren't the driver and don't know who was
- Technical issues prevented payment (e.g., website down)
- Signs were inadequate or confusing
- The crossing was closed or no charge applied (10pm-6am is free)
- The vehicle is exempt (e.g., blue badge holder, emergency vehicle)
💡 Pro Tip
"I forgot" is not a valid reason to appeal. The charge is well-publicised and drivers are responsible for paying on time. However, if you have a genuine reason why payment wasn't possible, document it and include evidence with your appeal.
How to Pay a Penalty Charge Notice
When you receive your PCN, you can pay in several ways:
🌐 Online
Visit gov.uk/pay-dartford-crossing-charge and select "Pay a penalty"
📞 Phone
Call 0300 300 0120 (open 24 hours)
📮 Post
Send a cheque with your PCN reference to Dart Charge, PO Box 842, Leeds, LS1 9QF
🏪 PayPoint
Pay in cash at any PayPoint location with your PCN
How to Appeal a Dart Charge Penalty
If you believe the penalty was issued incorrectly, you can make a formal representation:
- Visit the Dart Charge website and select "Make a representation"
- Enter your PCN reference number
- Select the reason for your appeal from the available options
- Provide detailed explanation and upload any supporting evidence
- Submit your representation within 28 days of the PCN
The PCN is paused while your representation is considered. You'll receive a decision by post. If rejected, you can take the case to an independent adjudicator.
How to Avoid Late Payment in Future
The best way to avoid penalties is to never miss a payment. Here's how:
✓ Set Up a Dart Charge Account
A Dart Charge account automatically detects your crossings and charges your card. Benefits include:
- Discounted rate: £2.00 instead of £2.50 per crossing
- Automatic payment: Never worry about forgetting
- Multiple vehicles: Add all your cars to one account
- Auto top-up: Account balance is maintained automatically
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I received multiple PCNs for the same crossing?
Contact Dart Charge immediately. Duplicate PCNs are errors and can be cancelled. Keep evidence of the date and time of your single crossing.
I paid but still got a PCN - what should I do?
Appeal immediately with proof of payment (bank statement, confirmation email). This is a common reason for successful appeals.
Can I pay the original £2.50 after getting a PCN?
No. Once a PCN is issued, you must either pay the penalty (£35 if within 14 days, £70 otherwise) or successfully appeal.
Conclusion
Missing the Dart Charge payment deadline happens to thousands of drivers. While there's no way to simply pay late without a penalty, you can minimise costs by paying the PCN within 14 days for the reduced £35 rate. Better yet, set up a Dart Charge account to avoid the stress entirely.
Remember: the crossing is free between 10pm and 6am, so if you're travelling at night, you won't need to pay at all!