Car Window Tinting Laws in the UK
Can I tint my car's front and rear windows?
Yes you can, but there are different rules for front and rear car window tints, and depending on when a vehicle first came into use.
What is the darkest window tint that is legal?
UK Law states that there are no restrictions at all for tinting rear side windows or the rear windscreen.
Front side windows and the front windscreen are subject to restrictions, and these vary slightly depending on when the car was first used.
If the vehicle was first used on or after 1 April 1985
- The front windscreen must allow a minimum of 75% light through.
- The front side windows must allow a minimum of 70% light through.
If the vehicle was first used before 1 April 1985
- Both the front windscreen and front side windows must allow through a minimum of 70% light.
Penalties for incorrectly tinted windows
Firstly, it's worth mentioning that it's not just the car owner who could get into trouble for breaking the rules. It's illegal to:
- fit or sell incorrectly tinted glass for a car
- sell a car that's fitted with incorectly tinted glass
If the police or Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) suspect a car of having illegally tinted windows, they'll measure the level of light passing through the glass with special equipment. If your windows break the rules you could:
- be served with a Prohibition Notice, stopping you from using your car until the window tints have been removed
- receive a court summons or penalty notice.
Why are there tinting laws for front car windows?
The reason for window tinting rules is to make sure a driver's visibility is not impeded by tints that are too dark. In some serious accidents, tinted windows have been thought to be a contributory factor.
Got a modified car?