Motorcycles and mopeds are unaffected by Low Emission Zone (LEZ) schemes in Scotland.
Certain vehicle types are also exempt from LEZ emission requirements in Scotland - these are set out below.
Vehicles for Disabled Persons
There are several exemptions which cover vehicles being used for the purposes of disabled persons, as outlined in the following circumstances:
- A vehicle registered with a 'disabled' or 'disabled passenger vehicles' tax class.
- A vehicle receiving a reduction in annual rate of vehicle excise duty because the vehicle is being used by a disabled person in receipt of personal independence payment at the standard rate.
- A vehicle carrying a Blue Badge holder, including:
- A vehicle being driven by any person who is in receipt of a Blue Badge.
- A passenger in the vehicle who has been issued with a Blue Badge.
- A vehicle being driven with a Blue Badge which has been issued to an organisation.
Blue Badge holders who require exemptions can register their details on Transport Scotland's LEZ exemption system. Further details can be obtained by contacting LEZBlueBadge@transport.gov.scot
Emergency Vehicles
The vehicle is being driven by any person who is:
- undertaking their duty as a constable
- providing a response to an emergency at the request of the Scottish Ambulance Service Board
- exercising the functions of the Scottish Ambulance Service Board, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Her Majesty's Coastguard, or the National Crime Agency
Naval, Military or Air Force Vehicles
- vehicles being used for naval, military or air force purposes.
Historic Vehicles
Vehicles of 'historical interest' means a vehicle which is considered to be of historical interest to the UK, and which:
- was manufactured, or registered, for the first time at least 30 years previously,
- is of a type no longer in production, and
- has been historically preserved or maintained in its original state and has not undergone substantial changes in the technical characteristics of its main components.
Showman's Vehicles
Vehicles described as either "showman's goods vehicle" or "showman's vehicle" according to section 62(1) of the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994.
Note: these are highly specialised vehicles used for the purposes of travelling showmen, where the vehicle is used during the performance, used for the purpose of providing the performance or used for carrying performance equipment.
Showman’s vehicles that do not meet the emissions standards are exempt. In order to apply for this exemption, you will need to provide the below information:
- Your Showman’s Guild number or Association of Circus Proprietor's membership numbers.
- The V5C of each vehicle you require an exemption for which shows the vehicle classification; and
- A photo of each vehicle you want to exempt.
In addition to above, please note that only vehicles with a 'showmans' or 'special vehicle' tax classification will be eligible for exemption from Aberdeen's LEZ.