· London's congestion charging scheme begins on February 17, with a fee of £5 a day for vehicles entering the centre of the capital (see map) between 7am and 6.30pm, Mondays to Fridays

· Motorists can pay the charge on the internet, by phone or at local newsagents and petrol stations, specifying the date on which they want to drive into London

· Drivers have until midnight to pay each day's charge, although the price goes up to £10 after 10pm. Weekly, monthly and annual passes will be available

· The charge will be enforced by cameras at main junctions, which will take thousands of photos of the number plates of cars

· Those who fail to pay will be fined £40, rising to £80 after two weeks and £120 after 28 days. The mayor has signed up debt collection agencies around the world to pursue overseas drivers

· Persistent refuseniks, who fail to pay three times, run the risk of having their vehicles clamped, towed away and ultimately "crushed", according to mayor Ken Livingstone

And how to avoid it

1 Get a moped Piaggio says inquiries about its scooters have shot up in the London area

2 Go green Cars powered by electricity or alternative fuels are exempt

3 Start a bus service Vehicles with more than nine seats do not have to pay

4 Buy a house inside the zone. Residents get a 90% discount

5 Join the army Military vehicles need not pay

6 Arrange to be towed into London Breakdown trucks are exempt

7 Disability Holders of disability badges can drive for free

8 Apply for a minicab licence These are only obtainable through a "reputable" operator

9 Learn to skate Rollerblading could grow in popularity

10 Apply for a night job The charge only applies on weekdays from 7am to 6.30pm