WHAT WINDOW TINT IS LEGAL IN THE UK?
TINTED VEHICLE WINDOWS: THE LAW
Vehicles First Used on or after 1 April 1985:
Front windscreen: Must allow a minimum of 75% light transmission.
Front side windows: Must allow a minimum of 70% light transmission.
Vehicles First Used before 1 April 1985:
Front windscreen and front side windows: Both must allow a minimum of 70% light transmission.
PENALTIES FOR NON-COMPLIANT WINDOW TINTS
Installing or selling glass that violates the tinting regulations is illegal. Law enforcement agencies, such as the police or the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), utilise light measuring equipment to assess window tint darkness.
Here are the potential penalties for non-compliant window tints:
EXCESSIVE TINT DARKNESS
EFPN Notice: 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.
EXTREME TINT DARKNESS
Prohibition Notice: 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. Ignoring this notice is a serious offence and may lead to prosecution for driving an unroadworthy vehicle.
ADDITIONAL PENALTIES
In addition to the Prohibition Notice, you may receive a penalty notice or court summons, incurring further costs and legal consequences.
SELLING NON-COMPLIANT WINDOW TINTS
It is also illegal to sell a vehicle with non-compliant window tints in the UK. Authorities, including the police and trading standards, have the power to prosecute individuals for this offence.
INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS AND MOT TESTING
When tinting your car windows, it’s advisable to notify your car insurance company, even if the tint falls within legal limits. Failure to disclose this modification may invalidate future insurance claims, as some insurers consider window tinting a car modification. Additionally, it’s important to note that window tint darkness is not part of the MOT test. Consequently, a vehicle may pass the test even with illegal tint, but compliance with the MOT test cannot be used as a defence for non-compliant window tint.
CARELESS DRIVING CHARGES AND NIGHTTIME ACCIDENTS
In the unfortunate event of an accident occurring at night, illegal window tints can serve as evidence in supporting a careless driving charge.
​
To ensure compliance with the law and avoid penalties, it is strongly advised to never break the regulations and always ensure that your car windows are tinted legally. By adhering to the guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of window tinting while maintaining road safety and legal compliance.
We offer a wide range of options that comply with the legal requirements for tinted windows in the UK. With our window films, you can achieve the desired level of tint darkness while ensuring compliance with the law. Visit our website today to explore our catalogue and find the perfect window tint solution for your vehicle.
Trust Mass tints for all your window tinting needs and enjoy a stylish and legally compliant driving experience.