How it works
Cameras at entrances, exits and around the zone read your number plate. They check it against a database to work out whether you've paid already, are exempt, or have a 100 per cent discount. We keep checking the database until midnight the following charging day.
If we get a match, we automatically delete any images of your vehicle from the database.
If we don't get a match, we check and validate all the images and send Penalty Charge Notice to the registered keeper of the vehicle.
What do I need to know about the central London Congestion Charge camera? (PDF 282KB)
Transport for London