Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why do you examine commercial vehicles?
To ensure that they are not carrying any prohibited goods and are in a safe condition.
Q2. Can I tow a vehicle through the tunnel?
Yes but it will need to be checked.
Q3. Can I turn round, I have come the wrong way?
Yes, request assistance at the toll booths and follow the Tunnels Officers instructions.
Q4. Can I pay by Cheque/Credit Card?
Yes but it will take longer.
Q5. Can I get change?
Customers travelling south can obtain change from a change machine at the north end of the tunnel located in the left lane as you approach. Customers travelling north should use the left hand toll booth and inform a member of staff who will direct you to the change machine. Change is no longer available at the Toll Booths.
Q6. Why is change no longer available at toll booths?
We have introduced a number of operational changes recently to keep traffic moving more swiftly, with the aim of reducing delays at the tunnel. The provision of change at the toll booths had an impact on wait times at the tolls. We have therefore moved this facility out of the main traffic flow, into the lay-bys, in order to improve customer journey times.
Q7. What measures do you have in place to keep traffic moving?
In addition to measures such as change no longer being provided at toll booths, HGV lanes (NOT bus lanes) becoming open to other vehicles, and changes to the inspections of vehicles entering the tunnel, we are also currently trialling a system to improve the way that traffic merges into a single lane as it enters the tunnel. All of these changes are designed to reduce queues and keep traffic moving.
Q8. Do you check light goods vehicles?
Only vehicles with a Maximum Gross Weight of 3,500kg (HGVs) will be inspected. However any Small good vehicles carrying hazardous loads must pull in for examination.
Q9. Is it cheaper to have a Permit?
Yes 10% cheaper and it can be topped up 24/7 by telephone.
Q10. How much is it if I breakdown?
Car is £14.00 minimum, HGV £28.00 minimum.
Q11. I have a dog in the car can I go through?
Yes. The animals banned are those not in a vehicle.
Q12. Why should I have my lights on?
The tunnel is no different to a well lit road at night.
Q13. Can I wait here?
In the lay-by for a short while after authorisation.
Q14. When is the best time to travel?
Avoid peak times 07:00-09:30/15:30-18:30.
Q15. Do you charge for caravans/trailers?
No but they must be checked.
Q16. How much is it?
CASH: Motorcycle 20p; Car £1.20; HGV £1.50.
PERMIT: Motorcycle 18p; Car £1.08; HGV £1.35.
Q17. What time to do you close?
We do not close except for emergency. Office hours for permit enquiries are 08:30-16:00 Mon-Thurs, 08:30-15:30 Fri.
In this section
Useful Information
| Vehicle | Cash | |
|---|---|---|
| Motorbikes | 20p | |
| Car/Light Van (<=3500 Kg) Bus (<=16 p. excl. driver) |
£1.20 | |
| Lorry/Van (> 3500 KG) Bus (>16 p. excl. driver) |
£1.50 |
