The M6 toll, formerly known as the Birmingham North Relief Road, is a 27-mile privately owned motorway that’s been open since 2003. It provides a faster, less congested alternative to the M6 around Birmingham and is often used by both commercial drivers and private motorists looking to save time.
Whether you're a frequent user or planning a one-off journey, understanding your payment options for the M6 toll is essential to avoid delays or fines.
How to Pay the M6 Toll
There are several payment methods available for the M6 toll, offering flexibility for all types of drivers. Since October 2023, the toll has operated a flat-rate pricing structure based on vehicle type, meaning peak and off-peak pricing no longer apply.
To keep your journey smooth, make sure you’re in the correct payment lane as shown on the overhead gantry at the toll plaza.
M6 Toll Payment Methods
1. TAG Account
Ideal for frequent users, the TAG payment system allows you to pass through tolls without stopping. Once registered, you’ll receive a small pre-paid device that sticks to your windscreen. Commercial drivers can open a business TAG account to streamline payments and receive consolidated monthly invoices.
Explore fuel cards that work with M6 tolls
2. Contactless Card Payments
The most common method for occasional drivers. Simply tap your debit or credit card at the barrier. Once the light turns green, you’re good to go. Remember: cash payments are no longer accepted.
3. Online Payment Portal
If you're unable to pay at the toll, you'll receive a Payment Notice from the attendant. You can then pay the M6 toll online within the stated timeframe to avoid penalty charges of up to £70.
4. Fuel Cards
Fuel cards such as Shell and Keyfuels are accepted as payment on the M6 toll. Just ensure you use a card-enabled lane and enter your PIN as usual. Surcharges may apply, and payments are typically processed the following week.
Compare fuel cards to see which is right for your business
Can You Use Apple Pay on the M6 Toll?
As of 2025, mobile payment systems like Apple Pay and Google Pay are now accepted on the M6 toll. Previously, legal restrictions on phone use while driving delayed their adoption. However, with updated regulations and system upgrades, drivers can now enjoy faster, more convenient payments.
Do You Have to Pay the M6 Toll Both Ways?
Yes, toll charges apply in both directions when travelling on the M6 toll. Each pass through a toll plaza counts as a separate charge, so make sure to factor this into your journey planning.
Why Is There a Toll on the M6?
The M6 toll is a privately funded motorway designed to ease congestion around Birmingham and improve journey times. The toll fees go toward maintenance, operations, and repaying infrastructure investment, not to the government.
Read more on M6 toll pricing and alternatives
How Do I Know If I Have to Pay the M6 Toll?
If your route includes the M6 toll between junctions 3a and 11a, you’ll need to pay. Satnavs and route planners often show whether a toll road is included—be sure to check before setting off. Signage on the approach to the toll road will also make it clear you're entering a toll zone.
Is There VAT on the M6 Toll?
No, toll charges are exempt from VAT. This can be important for businesses managing transport costs, though it's worth noting that any surcharges on payment methods (e.g. fuel card processing fees) may include VAT.
How Much Does the M6 Toll Cost?
Costs vary by vehicle type. As of 2025, typical charges for cars are around £7–£8, while HGVs may pay upwards of £12. Always check the official M6 toll pricing for the most up-to-date information.
How Much Time Does the M6 Toll Save?
On average, using the M6 toll can save around 25 minutes compared to the traditional M6 route, especially during peak travel times. This can also help reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions, making it a smart option for fleets and commercial drivers.
How to Avoid the M6 Toll
If you’re looking to avoid the toll, you can continue on the M6 or use alternative A-roads such as the A5 or A446. However, these routes are often slower and more congested—especially during rush hour, so weigh up the time vs. cost trade-off.
Final Thoughts
With contactless, fuel card, and TAG options now readily available, plus the recent addition of mobile payment systems like Apple Pay, it’s easier than ever to plan your route through the M6 toll.
Businesses can benefit from time savings and fuel efficiency, especially when combined with a smart fuel card solution to keep travel costs in check.
The M6 toll, originally known as the Birmingham North Relief Road is a privately owned motorway that has been open to the public since 2003. It spans 27 miles and acts as an alternative route to the M6 to offer a faster and more efficient journey for motorists and ease congestion around Birmingham.
The toll rates vary based on the type of vehicle and the payment method chosen, so you must plan your journey considering these costs. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the simple and convenient methods to pay the toll charges, helping to ensure you’re prepared when using the M6 toll road in the future.
