Smart Appeal • PCN Letters

TfL PCN Challenge - How to Challenge a TfL Penalty Charge Notice

Challenging a TfL PCN can feel confusing, especially if you’re worried about deadlines or losing the 50% discount. The good news is you won’t lose the discount if you challenge within 14 days. This page explains exactly how to challenge a TfL Penalty Charge Notice, the grounds that succeed most often, what evidence strengthens your case, and how Smart Appeal creates a fast, personalised challenge letter for you.

Can I challenge a TfL PCN?

Yes. TfL allows drivers to challenge a PCN if they believe it was issued incorrectly, unfairly, or if there were circumstances that justify the alleged contravention. You can submit your challenge online using the PCN number and vehicle registration. If TfL accepts your challenge, the PCN is cancelled. If not, they will re-offer the 50% discount provided you submitted your challenge within 14 days.

Is it worth challenging a TfL PCN?

In many cases, yes. TfL frequently cancels PCNs when strong evidence or reasonable mitigation is presented. Common reasons include unclear signage, sudden hazards, blocked lanes, malfunctioning road markings, unexpected traffic flow changes, or unavoidable manoeuvres to prevent an accident. If your case is valid, there is no risk of losing the discounted amount as long as you challenge within the 14-day window.

Best reasons for challenging a TfL PCN

The most successful TfL challenges usually fall into these categories:

  1. Signage was unclear, poorly positioned, or temporarily obstructed
  2. Road markings were faded, incorrect, or inconsistent
  3. You had to move to avoid an accident or sudden hazard
  4. Traffic conditions forced you into a restricted area
  5. There was an obstruction or vehicle blocking the normal route
  6. Emergency vehicles required you to manoeuvre
  7. Your vehicle developed an unexpected fault
  8. The contravention record is incomplete or unclear

These arguments succeed most often when supported by clear, simple evidence.

What evidence helps a TfL PCN challenge succeed?

Good evidence significantly increases your chance of cancellation. Examples include:

  • Photos or videos of signage, road layout, or obstructions
  • Dashcam footage. Photo or Google/Apple Maps showing diversions or temporary road changes
  • Weather conditions (e.g. glare, heacy rain)
  • Witness statements
  • Notes about sudden hazards or traffic flow changes, having to stop to avoid an accident or a collision. 

The key is clarity: TfL should be able to understand exactly why the contravention was unavoidable or not your fault (we can help you with that!).

How long do I have to challenge a TfL PCN?

You have 28 days from the date the PCN was issued to submit a formal challenge.

If you challenge within 14 days, TfL will re-offer the 50% discount if your challenge is rejected — so there is no financial risk in submitting a well-argued challenge early.

How Smart Appeal helps you challenge a TfL PCN

Smart Appeal creates a fast, personalised challenge letter based on your specific situation. You answer simple questions, and our system generates a clear, persuasive TfL PCN challenge that uses proven arguments and strong reasoning. Your letter is ready to copy, paste, and submit directly to TfL — saving you time and increasing your chance of success.

 

 

For further reference, see: PCN Appeal Letter

For a general overview of the appeals process, see: How to Appeal a PCN

TfL PCN Challenge - FAQs

Can I appeal a TfL PCN?

Yes. TfL allows you to challenge a PCN. If you submit your challenge within 14 days, TfL will normally re-offer the 50% discount even if they reject your appeal.

How do I contact TfL regarding a PCN?

The easiest way is through the TfL online PCN portal using your PCN reference number and vehicle registration. TfL prefers online communication, as it allows you to upload evidence and creates a clear record of your challenge.

How do I appeal the TfL penalty fare?

A TfL Penalty Fare is completely different from a TfL PCN. Penalty Fares are issued for public transport issues (such as not tapping in or travelling without a valid ticket). These must be appealed through the Independent Appeals Service (IAS) — not through the TfL road traffic PCN system.

Smart Appeal does not generate letters for Penalty Fare appeals. Our service only covers TfL road-based PCNs such as red routes, yellow box junctions, bus lanes and moving traffic restrictions.

Does challenging a TfL PCN mean I lose the 50% discount?

No. If you submit your challenge within 14 days, TfL will re-offer the discount if they reject your challenge.

What is the success rate for TfL PCN challenges?

TfL cancels many PCNs. Clear explanations and supporting evidence significantly improve results.

Can I challenge a TfL PCN if I briefly stopped to avoid a collision?

Yes. Avoiding an accident or sudden hazard is a valid and common reason for challenging a TfL PCN.

Ready to send your PCN appeal?

Create your professionally worded, ready-to-send appeal letter in minutes. We give you a strong, clear challenge letter tailored to  your situation — so you can challenge your PCN quickly and confidently.