Car Window Tinting - The Legal Requirements

Many people have their car windows tinted for aesthetic reasons, however tinted windows can have other advantages but are tinted windows legal?

The law really can be very confusing when it comes to window tinting so let's look at the bit that is perfectly clear. All windows from the middle of the car (from the B-pillar) backwards CAN be tinted to any desired level. The front windows (windscreen and side windows) can be tinted to a lesser extent, the law currently states:

• Front windscreen - 25% tint (must allow 75% of light through)
• Front side windows - 30% tint (must allow 70% of light through)
• All other windows - No restrictions

Vehicle & Operator Services Agency (VOSA) Statement

The UK Road Vehicles (Construction & Use) Regulations 1986 Act details the legality of window tinting in the UK - and as amended specifies the minimum levels of light that must pass through the windscreen and front side windows.

For a legal window tint in the UK the specifications are:
a) Motor Vehicles first used on or after 1 April 1985
b) The light transmitted through the windscreen must be at least 75%.
c) The front side windows (to either side of the drivers? head) must allow at least 70% of light to be transmitted through them.

Any windows behind the front two doors can be tinted as dark or as light as you choose.

What Happens If You Are Caught With Illegal Window Tints?

In the majority of cases you either have to remove the tints then and there at the roadside or you will be issued with a delayed prohibition which states the tints must be removed within 10 days. The police also have the authority to issue a penalty notice or a court summons and in some cases you may not be allowed to move the vehicle until the tints have been removed.