Exemptions Apply Now
Before you apply
Check you can get an exemption
Some people and businesses can apply for an exemption, this means you do not need to pay to drive in the Bradford Clean Air Zone.
This is only valid on vehicles which are chargeable. You do not need to apply for cars and motorcycles.
You might be able to get an exemption if:
- You live in Bradford and own a chargeable (non-compliant) vehicle.
- You run a small business, charity, or school service in Bradford.
- You drive special vehicles like school buses, emergency vehicles, or motorhomes.
You can see the full list of available exemptions to businesses and households here.
Get your documents ready
Before you apply, make sure you have:
- V5c log book - all pages (this shows who owns the vehicle)
- Photos or extra papers – depending on your vehicle type
Check what extra documents you need for your vehicle. There is a table at the bottom of the page that tells you what to include.
Apply for your exemption
- You must have owned your vehicle before 26 September 2022 to apply.
- You will still need to pay charges until your exemption is approved.
- If you need help, call the Clean Air Zone team at 01274 435533. They can give advice or even fill out the form for you.
What happens next?
- After you send your form, the council will email you to say they got it.
- Once you’ve sent all your documents, the council will check your application.
- You will get an email to say if your exemption is approved.
If your exemption is approved
- You will not have to pay to drive in the Clean Air Zone anymore.
- You still need to pay for any trips made before your exemption was given.
- Exemptions can’t be backdated.
How long does it last?
- Your exemption lasts as long as the Clean Air Zone is active, if you still meet the rules.
- Some exemptions (called sunset exemptions) only last until your new vehicle arrives.
- You can not transfer your exemption to another vehicle or owner.
Final check for documents
The list of documents you need is below. The council might ask you for more documents after you apply.
Local exemptions
| Vehicle type | Evidence required |
|---|---|
| Private hire vehicle (5-8 seats) |
Vehicle licensing document from the licensing authority |
| Private hire vehicle (LPG up to 4 seats) |
Vehicle licensing document from the licensing authority Proof of approved certificate from installer |
| Community transport vehicles | Section 19 or 22 permit under the Transport Act 1995 Proof vehicle is at least Euro 4 with DPF fitted |
| School buses | Proof of contracts to provide service with Bradford Schools and pupils Proof vehicle is at least Euro 4 with DPF fitted |
| Specialist vehicles | Business ID (One of the following accounts, business bank statements, business rates bill, self-assessment tax return, 4 photographs, 1 from each side of the vehicle) |
| Local SME vehicles | Business ID (One of the following accounts, business bank statements, business rates bill, self assessment tax return) |
| Charity vehicles | Registered Charity ID (charities commission document) Proof of service to Bradford districts residents (if based outside of district) |
| Residents vehicles | No further evidence required |
| Motor caravans (M1) | No further evidence required |
| Motorised horseboxes and motor caravans | No further evidence required |
| Showman's vehicles | Business ID (Showman's guild membership) |
| Emergency response vehicles | No further evidence required |
| Agricultural and similar vehicles | No further evidence required |
National exemptions
| Vehicle type | Evidence required |
|---|---|
| Military vehicles | No further evidence required |
| Vehicles for disabled people | No further evidence required |
| Zero emission vehicle | No further evidence required |
| Historic vehicles | No further evidence required |