Humber Bridge Goes Digital With Toll Hike This Week

Change is coming to the Humber Bridge, and it’s arriving with the clang of a closing toll booth and the chime of a digital notification. For the first time in over a decade, the iconic crossing linking East Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire is overhauling its tolling system—ushering in a new era of digital-only payments and a higher price for every journey.

According to El-Balad and NationalWorld, the transformation begins at midnight on Friday, January 30, 2026, when the familiar toll booths will close for the final time. From that moment, motorists will no longer be able to pay cash at the bridge itself. Instead, the Humber Bridge Board is steering drivers toward a suite of modern payment options: a dedicated phone app, an online portal, payments by phone, and the Paypoint scheme available at selected local shops. The move, officials say, is designed to bring the Humber Bridge in line with other major UK crossings, promising a streamlined experience and improved efficiency for all.

But what does this mean for the thousands who rely on the bridge each day? For one, there’s no more fumbling for coins at the barrier. Instead, drivers must pay in advance or by midnight the day after their crossing. Miss the deadline, and you’ll face a £25 administration fee—an unwelcome surprise for anyone who forgets to settle up. The Board has emphasized that this rule applies every day of the week, including Bank Holidays, so there’s no wiggle room for the absent-minded.

The payment process itself is designed to be flexible, at least in theory. The bridge’s new app and revamped website will go live on Monday, February 2, 2026, coinciding with the full rollout of the new system. Motorists can pay by entering their vehicle registration number and providing an email address to receive a receipt. For those less comfortable with apps or online payments, there’s the option to call 01482 235500 and pay over the phone, or to visit a participating shop and pay via the Paypoint scheme—using cash or card. All you’ll need is your registration number and, ideally, a good memory to avoid that £25 penalty.

With the new system comes a price increase—the first in 13 years. The cost for cars to cross the bridge will rise from £1.50 to £2 each way, a change that’s sure to be felt by regular commuters. However, there’s a silver lining for those willing to set up an account with the bridge management: a 25% discount on toll fees. As NationalWorld reports, account holders will see their fares automatically deducted, removing the risk of missing the payment deadline and incurring extra charges. Occasional users aren’t left out, either—they can purchase guest crossings as needed, albeit without the discount.

The Board has made it clear that these changes aren’t just about keeping up with the times—they’re about aligning the Humber Bridge with other toll crossings across the UK. According to officials, the shift to digital payments and a simplified fee structure is intended to streamline operations and reduce the potential for delays or confusion at the bridge itself. In a statement provided to El-Balad, the Board explained, “The updated system aims to align the Humber Bridge with other toll crossings across the UK, streamlining operations and improving efficiency.”

Nevertheless, not everyone is thrilled by the prospect of change. Local residents and frequent bridge users have submitted a raft of questions to the Board, seeking clarification on everything from payment options to the risk of accidental fines. The Board has responded by publishing detailed guidance on its website and through local media outlets, hoping to ease the transition and ensure that no one is caught out by the new rules.

For those crossing the bridge on the weekend of January 31 and February 1, 2026—the period between the closure of the toll booths and the official launch of the new app and website—there’s a special arrangement. As NationalWorld notes, these motorists will be asked to pay on February 2 or 3, unless they already have a pre-paid account. The Board assures drivers that topped-up accounts will be debited automatically, providing a seamless experience for those who have already embraced the digital model.

So, what happens if you cross on a Monday? Simple: you have until midnight on Tuesday to pay your toll. This rolling deadline is designed to give motorists a fair window to settle their dues, but it also means that the onus is firmly on the driver to remember. The Board’s guidance is explicit: “This applies seven days a week, including all Bank Holidays.” Forget, and that £25 fee will be waiting.

The new system also brings a few practical requirements. To pay online or via the app, drivers will need their vehicle registration number and an email address for receipts. Those opting for Paypoint payments at participating shops will need to provide the same details. The Board is encouraging motorists to consider setting up an account, both for the convenience of automatic payments and the benefit of discounted tolls—but the choice ultimately rests with the individual.

For those who only use the bridge occasionally, the guest crossing option provides flexibility without the need for a full account. However, these users won’t enjoy the 25% discount, making regular use of the bridge notably more expensive for those who don’t want to commit to an account.

The Humber Bridge Board has also addressed concerns about accessibility, particularly for those who may not be comfortable with digital payments. By maintaining options to pay by phone or at local shops, the Board hopes to ensure that the transition is as smooth as possible for all users. Still, the shift away from cash payments at the bridge itself marks a significant cultural change—one that reflects broader trends in digitalization across the UK’s transport infrastructure.

As the bridge prepares for its digital future, officials are keen to stress the benefits: reduced congestion at the crossing, faster processing times, and a system that’s more in step with the expectations of modern motorists. Yet, for many, the real test will come in the first few weeks after the changeover, as drivers adapt to new routines and, inevitably, a few teething problems.

For now, the message from the Humber Bridge Board is clear: plan ahead, know your options, and don’t forget to pay. With the right preparation, the transition to digital tolling could be as smooth as a drive across the bridge on a quiet morning—just don’t leave your payment to chance.