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Frequently Asked Questions
The Dartford - Thurrock River Crossing
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What legislation allows for the charge to be levied at the Crossing?
A. The Transport Act 2000 introduced the concept of Road User Charging. Under this Act the specific legislation is The A282 Trunk Road (Dartford-Thurrock Crossing charging scheme) Order 2008. Please see the attached link for further information. http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2008/uksi_20081951_en_1
Q. What are the current road user and abnormal load charges to use the Crossing?
A. Details of the current charges can be found in the following document: Charging Schedule (214KB PDF)
Q. If I use the Crossing on a regular basis can I qualify for a reduced charge?
A. As a regular user you will benefit from opening a DART-Tag account that, subject to the terms and conditions, does offer a discounted rate. There is also a Local Resident scheme with eligibility subject of terms and conditions. Please see the attached link for further information. http://www.dart-tag.co.uk/
Q. Can I pay the Road User Charge by Credit / Debit Card?
A. There is no facility to pay the Road User Charge by Credit / Debit Card. However, if you are a regular user of the Crossing you can apply for a DART-Tag Account, which can be topped up by direct debit, credit card or cheque. Please see the attached link for further information. www.dartfordrivercrossing.co.uk/dart-tag/
Q. Can I pay the Road User Charge with Euros or other foreign currencies?
A. Euros notes - NOT coins - are accepted at the booths but any change due is given in UK Sterling. Other currencies accepted are: Swedish Krona, Norwegian Krone, Danish Kroner, US Dollars, Canadian Dollars and Swiss Francs.
Q Is there information about the Crossing in languages other than English
A Yes. There is a multi-language leaflet which can be found in the Publications page.
Q. Does the Road User Charge levied attract VAT?
A. No.
Q. Why do your operators not issue receipts?
A. The Road User Charge levied does not attract VAT and there is no obligation to provide a receipt. However, if you are a regular user of the Crossing you can apply for a DART-Tag Account , for which you will receive regular statements and more detailed information of your journeys can also be accessed from our web site . Please see the attached link for further information. http://www.dart-tag.co.uk/
Q. How do I qualify for free passage as a disabled driver?
A. To qualify your vehicle needs to be exempt from Road Fund Tax as result of clauses 18 or 19 of Schedule 2 of the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act. For details of the Act click on the link below. www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1994/Ukpga_19940022_en_8.htm
Q. How do I obtain an exempt Road Fund Disc?
A. Please see the instructions on the DVLA website. http://www.dvla.gov.uk/
Q. Once I have the necessary exempt disc, how do I get free passage through the Crossing?
A. To minimise delay at the Crossing you may register your vehicle into the the Dartford-Thurrock Crossing Exempt Vehicle shceme. For details of how to apply click on the link below. Alternatively you should approach a staffed booth where the collector will check your tax disc for eligibility for free passage. Details of your vehicle will be recorded. http://www.dart-tag.co.uk/
Q. What provision is there for cyclists to use the Crossing?
A. Cyclists are prohibited from riding across the bridge or through the tunnels. However the Crossing staff will be pleased to arrange for cyclists to be transported from one side to the other.
Northbound cyclists should follow the cycle paths provided to the sign "Cyclists Wait here". From this point forward free transport will be provided to carry you and your bike through the Tunnels.
Southbound cyclists should dismount at the Essex Control building and wait for free transfer across the QE2 Bridge. A free call telephone is provided should this point be unattended. If you are riding a tandem or travelling as a group e.g. a cycle club it is advisable to make prior arrangements by contacting the Crossing. The transfer should take between 15 - 30 minutes. Click on the link for Contact details.
Q. Is there any assistance available for motorists who are concerned about driving through the tunnels or across the bridge?
A. The Crossing staff will be pleased to drive customers' vehicles. Drivers should report to Booth 1 on the Kent side or Essex Control Point for assistance. You will be required to sign an insurance disclaimer prior to the journey and you should allow up to 30 minutes for the transfer from arrival at the Crossing.
Q. What are the arrangements for Motorcyclists using the Crossing?
A. Motorcyclists now receive free passage. However, it is still necessary for all motorcycles to halt at the staffed booths and await confirmation from the Collector that it is OK to continue.
Q. What happens if I refuse to pay the Charge?
A. Non payment of the Road User Charge is a criminal offence under section 22 of The Dartford-Thurrock Crossing Act 1988. For details of this Act please click on the link below. www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1988/Ukpga_19880020_en_1.htm
