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Penalty fare vs prosecution on TfL
Many people assume that a penalty fare and a prosecution are the same thing. In reality, they are two completely different routes. Understanding which process you are dealing with is important because the consequences and next steps can be very different.
A penalty fare is usually a civil charge issued by transport staff at the time of the incident. A prosecution, on the other hand, involves TfL alleging that a legal offence has taken place.
What a penalty fare means
A penalty fare is designed to deal with certain ticketing issues quickly. It is usually issued by an inspector when someone is found travelling without a valid ticket.
If the penalty fare is paid within the required time, the matter is often treated as resolved from a fare enforcement perspective.
Upload your letter for reviewWhat a prosecution means
A prosecution is a legal process where TfL alleges that an offence has been committed under railway or transport legislation. Instead of a civil charge, the matter can progress through the courts.
Prosecution cases typically begin with an investigation letter and can later involve formal paperwork if the matter proceeds further.
Why the distinction matters
Because penalty fares and prosecutions are separate routes, paying a penalty fare does not always prevent TfL from reviewing the circumstances of a journey. In some cases, the investigation team may still assess whether further action is appropriate.
That is why it is important to understand exactly what TfL is pursuing before responding to any correspondence.
How to tell which situation you are in
- A penalty fare notice is usually issued immediately by an inspector.
- An investigation letter normally arrives later by post.
- Court paperwork will clearly reference legal proceedings.
- The wording of the letter usually indicates the stage of the process.
Practical next steps
- Confirm whether you received a penalty fare notice or an investigation letter.
- Keep copies of all correspondence and receipts.
- Note any deadlines stated in the letter.
- Act quickly if further paperwork arrives.
Unsure what stage your TfL case is at?
Upload the letter you received and a short summary of what happened. We'll review it and explain the stage of the investigation and the realistic next steps.
Penalty fares and prosecutions are different routes. It’s worth clarifying exactly what TfL is pursuing.
Not legal advice. No outcome is guaranteed. Not affiliated with Transport for London.