UK Window Tint Laws: What You Need to Know
Are you considering tinting your car windows? It can be a great way to add privacy and reduce glare while driving.
However, it’s important to be aware of the UK window tint laws to avoid any penalties or legal issues. In this article, we will cover the different tint laws in the UK and the penalties for illegal tint.
Windshield Tint
The windshield is the front window of the car, and according to UK law, it must have a minimum of 75% light transmission. This means that the tint darkness cannot be more than 25%.
If you have any tint on your windshield, it must not reduce the amount of light transmitted through the glass below 75%.
Front Side Window Tint
Front side windows are the ones next to the driver and the front passenger. The legal limit for these windows is a maximum of 30% Visual Light Transmission (VLT).
VLT refers to the amount of visible light that can pass through the window. So, a 30% VLT means that the window only allows 30% of light to pass through it.
Back Side Window Tint
There are no restrictions on the tint darkness for the back side windows of a car. This means that you can choose any tint darkness you prefer.
However, keep in mind that the tint still needs to be within the legal limit for VLT and must not reduce the amount of light transmitted through the glass by more than 70%. Rear
Windshield Tint
The rear windshield is the large window at the back of the car, and there are no restrictions on the tint darkness for this window.
This means that you can have any tint darkness you prefer, as long as it does not affect the driver’s visibility or reduce the amount of light transmitted by more than 70%.
Tint Laws for Older Cars
If your car was registered before 1 April 1985, it must have a minimum of 70% VLT for the front side windows. This means that the windows must allow at least 70% of the light to pass through.
Penalties for Illegal Tint
Enforcement
The police use a photometer to check the VLT of car windows. They can stop you at any time, and if they suspect that your tint is too dark, they may ask you to pull over for further inspection.
The frequency of enforcement varies depending on the location and time of day, but it’s best to assume that you may be checked at any time.
Endorseable Fixed Penalty Notice (EFPN)
If your tint is found to be illegal, you will receive an
Endorseable Fixed Penalty Notice (EFPN). This means that you will receive a fine of 60 and three penalty points on your driving license.
Delayed
Prohibition Notices or Rectification Notices
If your tint is found to be illegal but not extreme, you may be issued with a Delayed
Prohibition Notice. This means that you will be allowed to drive the car with restrictions until the tint is removed or replaced with a legal one.
You will need to prove to the authorities that the tint has been removed or replaced.
Prohibition Notice
If your tint is found to be extremely dark or makes your car non-roadworthy, you may be issued with a
Prohibition Notice. This means that you will not be allowed to drive the car until the tint is removed or replaced with a legal one.
You may receive a penalty notice or a court summons.
Selling a Vehicle with Non-Compliant Tint
If you are selling a vehicle with non-compliant tint, you may face prosecution by trading standards. This can result in a fine or even imprisonment.
Car Insurance and Window Tint
If you modify your car, including adding tint to your windows, and you do not inform your insurance company, your insurance may be invalidated. This means that if you have an accident, your claim may not be paid.
MOT Test and Window Tint
During an MOT test, the tester will check if your car windows comply with the legal tint limit. If your tint is found to be illegal, you may receive a certificate of failure.
You can defend yourself against a careless driving charge by providing evidence that your tint was legal at the time of the test.
Conclusion
Tinting your car windows can be a great way to add privacy and reduce glare while driving. However, it’s important to be aware of the UK window tint laws to avoid any penalties or legal issues.
The legality of your car’s tint varies depending on the type of window and the age of your vehicle. If you do choose to add tint to your car windows, make sure that it complies with the legal limit for VLT.
Remember that illegal tint can result in fines, penalty points on your driving license, and even imprisonment. UK Window Tint Laws: What You Need to Know – Part 2
We covered the basics of UK window tint laws in the first part of this article.
In this addition, we will delve deeper into some of the other important aspects of window tint laws in the UK, such as how they apply to different vehicle types and regions.
Vehicle Types and Window Tint Laws
The UK window tint laws apply to all vehicles, including sedans, pick-up trucks, and SUVs. The type of vehicle does not affect the window tint laws. However, the size and shape of the windows may vary between different vehicle types, which can impact the amount and type of tint allowed on each window.
For example, an SUV may have larger side windows than a sedan, but the tint limit for both is 30% VLT. This means that the SUV cannot have darker tint than the sedan, even though its windows are larger.
It’s important to keep in mind the specific window sizes and VLT limits for your vehicle type to ensure compliance with the law.
UK Regions and Window Tint Laws
The window tint laws in the UK are the same across all regions, including Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) and Northern Ireland. The same legislation applies, and there are no regional variations or exceptions.
This means that if you are driving in Scotland, the same window tint laws apply as if you were driving in England or Wales. This also means that you don’t have to worry about learning different laws if you travel between different regions of the UK.
It’s important to remember that local councils may have their own restrictions on window tinting for private hire vehicles or taxis. You should check with your local council if you plan to use your tinted car for these purposes.
Clearly Defined Light Transmission and Tint Darkness
The UK window tint laws clearly define the amount of light transmission (VLT) and tint darkness allowed on car windows. The laws are in place to ensure that drivers can see clearly and safely while driving, and to allow police officers to check the VLT of car windows easily.
A clear understanding of these tint laws can help you make an informed decision when choosing the type of tint you want to use on your vehicle. It’s crucial to note that the glass used in the side and rear windows of the car should be manufactured to comply with British Standard BS 857 to ensure its safety, especially in the event of a collision.
In Summary
Window tinting laws in the UK are clearly defined to ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers on the road. The laws apply to all types of vehicles and do not vary between regions.
Understanding them is essential to avoid penalties, such as fines and points on your license. Remember to check the specific VLT limits for your vehicle type and adhere to them.
Keep in mind that the glass used must comply with BS 857 for safety purposes. By obeying the tint laws, you can enjoy the benefits of tinted windows without breaking the law.
In summary, it is essential to be aware of the UK window tint laws and the penalties for violating them. These laws apply to all vehicles regardless of type, and the same legislation is in place across all regions of the UK.
It is crucial to understand the specific VLT limits for your vehicle type and adhere to them to avoid legal issues. Make sure that the glass used on your vehicle’s windows complies with British Standard BS 857 for safety purposes.
Remember, by following the window tint laws, you can enjoy the benefits of tinted windows without breaking the law and facing potential penalties.