Your Questions Answered
- Home
- Using the M6toll
- FAQs
About the M6toll
Why do I have to pay to use the M6toll?+
Unlike other motorways in the UK, the M6toll is privately owned. It was built and privately funded by Midland Expressway Ltd (MEL). It will continue to be run by MEL until 2054.
The toll you pay on each journey goes towards maintaining the M6toll road. We fund everything ourselves.
General
Is the M6toll ever closed?+
Our road is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year. It would only ever be closed due to a police incident.
Where can I enter and exit the M6toll?+
To find out where to get on or off, take a look at our maps.
Where does the M6toll start and finish?+
The M6toll connects the M6 at Junction 3a to Junction 11a of the M6, covering a total distance of 27 miles – or 43 kilometres.
How safe is it if I break down and have to wait a long time for recovery?+
Safety on our road is our top priority. There are CCTV cameras along the route as well as emergency telephones. Using an emergency telephone will put you in touch with Highways England, who will inform our control room of your location so we can stay in regular contact with you.
Our Incident Support Units are constantly patrolling the road and will be with you as soon as possible.
Why did my satnav take me on the M6toll to a destination when I could have used local roads?+
If you’re using a satnav and haven’t opted to avoid toll roads, it is likely to send you on our road because it is the quickest route to your destination.
I joined the M6toll by mistake. What do I do?+
You will need to proceed until you reach a toll plaza, where you will still have to pay the toll charge, but you can also ask a member of staff for directions to help you as you exit the motorway.
We’re keen to make sure that the only people using the M6toll are doing so through their own choice, which is why all signage on the approach roads is designed, and fully approved by Highways England, to meet the requirements of the Department for Transport’s signage policy. Should you have a complaint with regards to the signage for the M6toll please contact Highways England directly.
Why can’t I show my blue badge at the toll booths and get free passage on the M6toll?+
We are bound by legislation that requires us to grant free passage via the M6toll scheme, for those that meet the eligibility criteria. Free passage requires you to apply for an M6toll Mobility Exemption Pass. Unfortunately, a blue badge doesn’t prove eligibility for the mobility scheme.
We have our own M6toll Mobility Exemption Pass. Check your eligibility and apply here. Please note, the eligibility criteria is different to the blue badge scheme.
How to make a complaint?
How do I complain?+
We hope you never need to complain. However, if you do, you can call our customer services team on 0330 660 0790 (lines are open 08:30 – 17:00 Monday – Friday) or send them an email to customercomplaints@m6toll.co.uk.
Local Saver
Can I use a Mainline Plaza?+
Yes.
If I already have an account can I switch to this new product?+
Yes, if you live in the designated postcode area then you can switch (please refer to the List of Postcodes on our website). Please contact Customer Services via the website and one of our Customer Representatives will contact you.
What are my options if I don’t live in the postcode areas?+
The product is based on designated postcode areas. Please contact Customer Services via the website if you feel that the postcode is within the areas but not specified and we can consider your application for the purpose of the opening an account on a case by case basis.
What happens when I have used 6 journeys?+
A payment will automatically be processed onto your account once the 6th journey has been made.
What happens if I have stopped using the M6toll Road and have unused journeys on my account?+
Any unused trips will be refunded.
Do I have to use ANPR?+
This is an ANPR product and ANPR will recognise the majority of Vehicle Registration Number Plates. Upon application, if your VRN is not compatible, other options can be discussed with one of our Customer Representatives.
How do I get one?+
Please complete the form on the M6toll Website www.m6toll.co.uk/local-saver
When is the Local Saver available?+
The Local Saver will be available from 21st July 2022.
When can I use the Local Saver?+
The Local Saver can be used anytime of the day, week or at weekends.
What is the Local Saver?+
This is a new discounted product which allows users 6 journeys for £29.00 or £49.00 anytime. This will be available for Class 2 and 4 vehicles only – ideal for short to medium leisure and commuting which either start or end at one of the intermediary junctions on the M6toll – whether you’re commuting, running daily errands or going on a leisurely day out.
M6toll TAG
What if I choose a non-TAG lane by accident?+
There is no need to panic, simply proceed forward towards the exit barrier, stop and press the “call for assistance” button. One of our team will be able to assist.
Which lane do I use if I have a TAG on my vehicle?+
There are TAG lanes at every plaza – look out for the TAG symbol overhead.
What do I do if my TAG is stolen or lost?+
If your TAG is stolen, please use your online account to report this.
Do I need to fix the TAG to my vehicle?+
Yes, otherwise it is likely that it may not work, which means that the barrier will not rise automatically and you may be delayed.
Follow our guide which will be included when you receive your TAG. Or, you can watch our handy video guide here.
What do I do if I need a new TAG bracket?+
You can order a new bracket via your online account.
What are the benefits of using a TAG?+
As well as making your journey as hassle free as possible, you will also benefit from:
- discount on every journey (well worth it for regular users)
- a dedicated lane at every plaza
- not having to stop to pay (as long as your account is in credit)
- monthly invoices (never worry about a lost receipt again)
What if I want to close my TAG account?+
If you decide it is not for you, please login to your online account.
Mobility Exemption
What happens if I’m not in the registered vehicle that was on my application?+
The Exemption is ONLY for the registered vehicle on the application, if you are not in that vehicle you will need to pay the toll fee via card in the card machine within the toll lane.
How do I change my vehicle details to retain my Mobility Exemption?+
Should your Mobility Exemption vehicle be sold or stolen, please contact our Customer Services Team on 0330 660 0790, or alternatively email us on mobilitypass@m6toll.co.uk
Does my blue badge allow me free passage on the M6toll?+
Unfortunately, not, the blue badge scheme does not differentiate between those who are entitled to exemption and those who are not.
If I must pay at the time of travel, could I recover the cost afterwards?+
Because the Exemption requires you to be in the nominated vehicle as per your application, the toll fee is non refundable.
The M6toll has CCTV operating in all toll lanes, and we will carry out verification of the information supplied in your application in this way. If there is a breach of these terms and conditions, or a misuse of your Mobility Exemption, we reserve the right to withdraw it, without notice.
Will the price of my Mobility Exemption change if the toll charges change?+
No, the price will stay the same even if the toll prices change. We do, however, review the cost of administering the Mobility Exemption regularly and when the price does change, we will update the information on our website.
Can someone else use my Mobility Exemption when travelling to pick me up from another location?+
A Mobility Exemption only allows free passage on the M6toll for the vehicle registration listed in the application, and the applicant must be present in the vehicle when travelling.
How long does it take for my Mobility Exemption take to arrive?+
Please allow up to 28 working days to process your application. Once set up, you will receive an email confirming the application has been processed and an explanation of what to do as you approach the toll plaza.
Can someone else apply on my behalf?+
An application for a Mobility Exemption can be made on behalf of an applicant, if the applicant is under 13 years of age, is subject to a Power of Attorney or is unable to do so themselves. If the applicant is under 13 years old age, a parent or guardian is required to sign the application form.
I am unable to apply online are there any other alternative ways to apply for a Mobility Exemption?+
Please call our customer service team on 0330 660 0790 or email us mobilitypass@m6toll.co.uk, and one of our team will be pleased to assist.
Is there a cost to applying for a Mobility Exemption?+
There is a £7.00 administration charge, payable upon each application and renewal.
How long does the Mobility Exemption last for?+
A Mobility Exemption is valid for one year for the vehicle and person listed on the application form, and an annual application is required, prior to the expiry date.
What is the criteria for applying for a Mobility Exemption?+
To qualify for a Mobility Exemption on the M6toll, Midland Expressway Limited is governed by The New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 and the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994, the holder must be in receipt of one of the following and provide evidence when making an application:
- A V5 Vehicle Registration Document showing the vehicle registration number and the road tax classification ‘Disabled’
- A confirmation letter to claim vehicle road tax classification status of ‘Disabled’ and vehicle registration number under a Motability Vehicle Lease Agreement
- War pensioner mobility supplement
- Armed Forces Independence Payment.
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) by virtue of entitlement to the Mobility Component at the Higher Rate.
- Is in receipt of disability assistance for children and young people by virtue of entitlement to the Mobility Component at the Higher Rate.
- Personal Independent payment (PIP) by virtue of entitlement to the Mobility Component at the Enhanced Rate.
Does my blue badge allow me free passage on the M6toll?+
Unfortunately not, the blue badge scheme does not differentiate between those who are entitled to exemption and those who are not.
How do I apply for a Mobility Exemption?+
Visit our website and complete an online application with supporting evidence of eligibility.
https://www.m6toll.co.uk/pricing/#exemptions
Motorway services area
Do I have to pay to park at the service station?+
Parking at the service station is free for the first two hours. After that, a charge of £12 for cars and £28 for HGV’s will apply for a stay of up to 24 hours.
Parking is free if you are staying at the Days Inn hotel.
Can I stay overnight?+
Yes, there is a Days Inn at the service station with free parking and free Wi-Fi. Find out more here.
Is there a service station on the road?+
Yes, it’s called Norton Canes, Roadchef operates it and it’s award winning. It is located between T6 and T7, northbound and southbound. For more information, click here.
There’s a lot of choice, please view the full list of retailers here.
Payment
What if I don’t have any other means of payment with me at the time?+
We appreciate this happens. Please let one of our team know by pressing the call for assistance button located in the toll lane. A member of our team will take some brief details and issue you with a payment notice allowing you to pay online.
Please beware that if you don’t pay within the time allowed you may incur penalty charges of up to £70.
At what time do your day and night rates start and finish?+
During weekdays our day rate applies to all journeys made between 7am – 7pm. Off-peak rates also apply during weekdays between 5am-7am and 7pm-11pm.
At the weekend our day rate applies to all journeys made between 5am-11pm.
Our night rate is applicable to all journeys made between the hours of 11pm and 5am.
For further information on our prices please click here.
How do I pay?+
There are three payment options:
- M6toll Account
- Card (credit and debit cards or fuel cards).
- Contactless card accepted, simply tap & go.
If you need a receipt, there’s a button for this located in all non-TAG lanes. You will not be able to get a receipt for a TAG journey as an invoice will be available via your online account.
I saw a sign displaying a charge for my vehicle but when I got to the M6toll plaza, it was more expensive. Why is that?+
Prices displayed are not only for various classifications of vehicles but also for different times of the day. The correct price for your vehicle and the time of day you are travelling will be displayed again at the point of payment.
Please see our pricing chart for a full list of prices before you travel.
Are there any offers or promotions?+
Discounts are applicable to TAG account holders.
Our M6toll savers have been designed to save you time and money.
If you are one of our customers, visit Account Login to sign into your account and opt into our promotional communications and be the first to hear about our offers and promotions.
How can I pay my Payment Notice?+
To pay your notice online, click here.
You can also pay via mobile text link, or call our customer services team.
I have been issued a Payment Notice, how long do I have to pay the notice?+
Payment should be made as soon as possible after your journey and within 2 days to avoid any further administration charges, by visiting https://product.m6toll.co.uk/payment_notice.html
For the purpose of paying a Payment Notice, a day is equal to 24 hours beginning from the time of issue and displayed on the Payment Notice.
Failure to pay the amount specified on the Payment Notice within 2 days will lead to the commencement of our payment recovery process.
Why don’t you accept Android and Apple pay?+
At present we are unable to accept Android and Apple pay. This is a service we hope to be able to offer our customers in the future.
Are the toll prices the same, day and night?+
No, prices can vary according to the day, time and toll plaza used.
Please see our pricing chart
What do I do if I think my vehicle has been incorrectly classified i.e. Class 4 instead of a Class 2?+
If you think your vehicle has been wrongly classified (causing you to be undercharged or overcharged) and you are in the toll lane, press the ‘call for assistance’ button located in every lane before making payment; there is a small screen which displays the price you are about to be charged.
If you have already paid and left the toll booth area, when it’s safe to do so please call our customer services team on 0330 660 0790, and we’ll look into this for you.
Why is your classification system different to the one used by the DVLA? +
Classifications are determined by our measurement system which is separate to DVLA classifications.
How do you work out what class my vehicle will fall into?+
Sensors which are located in each lane measure the height at the front of the vehicle and count the amount of axles and wheels (including trailers).
The height measurement is taken from where the front tyre is in contact with the ground, this is in line with the centre of the wheel and sends a beam from one side of the vehicle to the other, if the beam is obstructed by any part of the vehicle then the vehicle will be registered as a class 4 or above.
How do I know what class my vehicle is?+
Please click here to see which class your vehicle falls into.
What if I only want to use it for one junction?+
The toll charge is calculated dependent on the classification of your vehicle, the time and day you travel and whether you exit the road at a mainline plaza or junction plaza.
What happens if I choose a lane that doesn’t accept my chosen payment method?+
We can always help you. So continue towards the exit barrier, stop and press the call for assistance button located on the booth.
You will be put through to an operator, who will provide assistance regarding the options open to you.
We will issue you with a Payment Notice. For the purposes of a Payment Notice, a day is equal to 24 hours beginning from the time of issue and displayed on payment notice. Failure to pay specified amount on a Payment Notice within 2 days will lead to commencement of recovery process.
How much do I have to pay to use the M6toll?+
Our prices depend on the classification of your vehicle, the time and day you travel and whether you exit the road at a mainline plaza or junction plaza.
Please click here for our pricing chart
Safety & Maintenance
What do I do if I break down on the M6toll?+
If you have broken down or need our assistance a member of our highly trained staff will be with you as quickly as possible, with the aim of getting you on your way again.
If you have broken down there are emergency roadside telephones along the full length of the M6toll, which can be used to ask for assistance. Where possible our own highly trained Incident Support Units will be dispatched to you.
What is the speed limit and are there speed cameras?+
Yes, the M6toll is regulated and policed just like any other motorway in England. The speed limit is 70mph, reducing on the approach to toll plazas.
Who is responsible for maintaining the M6toll?+
Midland Expressway Ltd are the operators of the M6toll and have an entire team of people who are passionate about maintaining all aspects of the road to the highest standard. We also have a 24/7 control room team, regularly checking for incidents, debris and anything else that could impact your journey.
Violations
What happens if I don’t pay?+
If the toll charge has not been paid within 2 days of the date of travel our internal administration costs of £70 including vat will be added to the original toll charge. A letter will be posted to the vehicle keeper using the contact details supplied by the DVLA. The letter will explain the next stage of the debt recovery process which will incur further additional fees and could result in court action which may affect a customer’s credit history. If no keeper details can be obtained from DVLA the vehicle VRN will be passed to debt recovery for them to attempt recovery.
What do I do if I realise I haven’t made a payment for my journey?+
If you realise that you have not paid the required toll charge and would like to pay without incurring additional charges, you must contact our Customer Services team within 2 working days of your journey between the hours of 8.30-17.00 Monday to Friday on 0330 660 0790.
What is a violation?+
A violation occurs when your vehicle exits the toll lane whilst the traffic light is red, meaning no payment is made for the toll charge due for your passage on the M6toll.