Windscreen Tinting Laws in the UK: Legal Requirements and Options

Window tinting offers numerous benefits, from UV protection and glare reduction to enhanced privacy and interior preservation. However, in the UK, windscreen and window tinting is subject to strict legal regulations that every driver must understand. Non-compliance can result in fines, penalty points, and even prohibition from using your vehicle on public roads.

UK Legal Requirements for Windscreen Tinting

The UK's window tinting laws are governed by the Road Vehicles (Construction & Use) Regulations 1986, which specify the minimum levels of light that must pass through different windows. These requirements depend on when your vehicle was first registered.

For Vehicles First Used on or After 1st April 1985

The front windscreen must let at least 75% of light through and the front side windows must let at least 70% of light through. This means:

• Windscreen: Minimum 75% Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

• Front side windows: Minimum 70% VLT (driver and passenger windows)

• Rear windows: No restrictions - any level of tinting is permitted

For Vehicles First Used Before 1st April 1985

The front windscreen and front side windows must both let at least 70% of light through. This applies to classic and vintage vehicles registered before the current regulations came into effect.

Understanding VLT Percentages: A Common Misconception

Many drivers mistakenly believe that a 30% window tint is legal because they calculate that if 70% light transmission is required, blocking 30% should be acceptable. This is not the case as windows without tinting do not let in 100% of light; even clear glass only lets in around 70% to 80% of light.

When you apply additional tinting, you're further reducing the light transmission from an already reduced baseline. This means even a seemingly light tint can push your windows below legal requirements.

What About Sun Strips?

Only sunstrip is allowed along the top of the windscreen. This strip must not extend more than 10 centimeters down from the top of the windscreen. Sun strips are a popular and legal way to reduce glare while maintaining visibility.

A tinted sun strip is allowed at the top of the windshield as long as it doesn't obstruct the driver's view. The general guideline is that sun strips should remain within approximately 150mm (6 inches) from the top edge of the windscreen.

Rear Window Tinting Freedom

The rear windscreen and the rear passenger windows are not subject to the above rules and can be tinted to any level of darkness. This gives vehicle owners complete freedom to choose darker tints for privacy and UV protection in the rear of the vehicle.

Enforcement and Penalties

How Police Measure Tint Levels

The police or the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) vehicle examiners use light measuring equipment to measure window tint. Officers use specialized photometer devices called "Tintman" VLT meters to precisely measure light transmission levels.

Penalty Structure

The penalties for illegal window tinting vary based on severity:

Minor Infractions (45%-30% VLT): If your windscreen or front side windows have tint darkness exceeding the legal limits but not considered extreme, you may receive an Endorsable Fixed Penalty Notice (EFPN). This notice entails a £60 fine and the endorsement of your driver's licence with 3 penalty points.

Severe Infractions (Less than 30% VLT): Having extreme tint darkness (less than 30% light transmission) on windshields or front side windows can result in a Prohibition Notice. This notice requires you to cease using the vehicle until it complies with UK window tint laws.

Delayed Prohibition Notices: If the police or DVSA find that a car has less severe window tinting, which is allowing above 30% visible light transmission, they will usually issue a Delayed Prohibition Notice or a Rectification Notice. This allows the vehicle to be driven on public roads for a limited number of days, usually ten, to allow the tint to be removed.

MOT Testing and Window Tints

Tinted windows are not currently part of the MOT test but the DVLA and the police force do carry out roadside checks around the UK. This means your vehicle can pass an MOT with illegal tinting, but this doesn't provide legal protection against penalties during roadside enforcement.

Insurance Implications

Window tinting can have significant insurance consequences. Window tinting can also invalidate insurance claims in the event of an accident and counts as a modification that must be declared to a car insurance company and may increase premiums even if it is done to a legal level.

Even legal tinting should be declared to your insurance company as a modification. Failure to disclose this could void your policy in the event of a claim.

Medical Exemptions

While rare in the UK, certain exemptions may exist, such as medical exemptions for individuals requiring heightened protection from sunlight due to specific medical conditions. However, such exemptions typically necessitate documentation and approval from relevant authorities.

Medical exemptions would require:

• Documentation from a licensed physician

• Approval from relevant authorities

• Certification to be carried in the vehicle at all times

Special Tinting Types

Chameleon Tints

Chameleon windscreen tint, which alters color based on lighting conditions, is generally not considered legal in the UK. Such tinting may impede visibility and could fail to meet the legal standards for light transmission.

However, the law states that the VLT of the front windscreen must be over 75%, so provided that once chameleon tint is applied to the windscreen, the VLT reading is equal to or higher than 75%, then the chameleon tint is fully road legal.

Legal Requirements for Installers and Sellers

It's illegal to fit or sell glass (or a vehicle already fitted with glass) that breaks the rules on tinted windows. This places responsibility on both installers and vehicle sellers to ensure compliance with UK regulations.

Expert Advice from My Car Glass

Manish Patel from My Car Glass explains: "In our three decades of serving London drivers, we've seen the evolution of window tinting regulations and the confusion they can create. The key thing to understand is that UK tinting laws prioritise safety above all else. While we don't offer tinting services at My Car Glass, we frequently advise customers about the legal implications of tinting, especially when it comes to windscreen replacement. If you have a tinted windscreen that needs replacement, we ensure the new glass meets all legal requirements. Remember, what might look like light tinting to the eye can still fail legal measurements, and the consequences can be severe. Always choose reputable installers who understand UK regulations and use proper measuring equipment to verify compliance before and after installation."

Best Practices for Compliance

1. Professional Installation: Use certified installers who understand UK regulations

2. VLT Testing: Ensure installers use proper light transmission testing equipment

3. Documentation: Keep certificates of compliance and installation records

4. Insurance Declaration: Inform your insurance company about any tinting modifications

5. Regular Checks: Monitor tint condition as aging can affect VLT levels

Regional Considerations for London Drivers

London's high density of police patrol vehicles and DVSA enforcement units means tinting violations are more likely to be detected. The Metropolitan Police frequently conduct roadside checks, particularly during traffic stops for other offences.

Additionally, London's congested roads and frequent low-light conditions make proper visibility even more critical for safety.

What to Do If You Receive a Notice

If you're issued a prohibition or penalty notice:

1. Don't Ignore It: Continuing to drive with illegal tint after receiving a prohibition notice is a serious offence

2. Get Professional Removal: Use qualified services to remove non-compliant tint

3. Obtain Documentation: Keep receipts and certificates proving compliance

4. Report to Authorities: Follow the notice instructions for verification

The Future of UK Tinting Laws

As vehicle technology advances and ADAS systems become more prevalent, tinting regulations may evolve. Current trends suggest authorities are becoming more vigilant about enforcement, with increased roadside testing and penalties.

Conclusion

UK windscreen tinting laws exist to ensure road safety while allowing reasonable customisation options. Understanding these regulations helps you make informed decisions about vehicle modifications while avoiding costly penalties.

Key Takeaways:

• Front windscreen: minimum 75% VLT (post-1985 vehicles)

• Front side windows: minimum 70% VLT

• Rear windows: no restrictions

• Penalties range from £60 fines to vehicle prohibition

• Insurance implications require disclosure

• Professional installation and testing are essential

For windscreen replacement services that ensure compliance with all UK regulations, trust the expertise that comes with three decades of London experience.

For professional windscreen replacement and advice on tinting compliance, contact My Car Glass at mycarglass.co.uk. Our experienced team ensures all work meets current UK legal standards.