Understanding window tinting laws in UK is extremely important to avoid any violations.

Window tinting has become highly popular among car owners due to its many benefits.

However, depending on your location, you must adhere to specific window tinting laws.

Not every country or state has the same car window tint laws, so it’s important to know the regulations for your specific country or region.

In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding window tinting laws in the UK.

Whether you live in Edinburgh or any other part of the UK, you will find these car window tinting laws useful.

So, let’s dive in.

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What is Car Window Tinting? 

Car window tinting is the process of applying a thin, tinted film to a vehicle’s windows. This film is usually made from polyester and is available in various shades and levels of darkness. 

The main purpose of window tinting is to modify the windows’ appearance and properties, such as by reducing the amount of light and heat that enters the vehicle. Depending on the type of film and the desired effect, it can be applied to either the interior or exterior surfaces of the windows.

What Are the  Benefits of Car Window Tinting? 

Tinting car windows can benefit you in many ways which includes: 

• Protection from UV rays: Significantly reduces ultraviolet radiation, helping to protect your skin from sun damage and lowering the risk of skin cancer.
• Maintains a cooler interior: Decreases the amount of heat that enters your vehicle, ensuring a more comfortable temperature inside, especially on hot days.
• Enhances privacy and security: Makes it harder for people outside to see into your car, providing more privacy and deterring potential theft.
• Prevents upholstery damage: Shields your car’s interior from UV rays and heat, which helps prevent the upholstery from cracking, fading, and deteriorating over time.
• Improves vehicle aesthetics: Adds a sleek, stylish look to your car, enhancing its overall appearance and potentially increasing its market value.
• Prevents glass shattering: In case of an accident, the tint film helps hold the glass together, reducing the risk of injury from broken glass.
• Reduces glare and improves driving safety: Cuts down on glare from the sun and headlights, which enhances visibility, making driving safer and reducing eye strain.

You can also check out our blog on What Are The Benefits of Tinting Car Windows?

What Are The Window Tinting Laws in Edinburgh, UK? 

Window tinting laws in the UK can be categorized based on the vehicle’s registration date. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

🕒 Vehicles Registered After April 1, 1985:

✅ Front Windshield

According to UK law, the front windshield of vehicles registered after April 1, 1985, must allow at least 75% of light to pass through. This ensures optimal visibility for the driver, particularly during low-light conditions or adverse weather.

✅ Front Side Windows (Driver and Passenger Side)

Similarly, the front side windows must maintain a light transmission rate of at least 70%. This requirement balances privacy concerns with the imperative for unobstructed visibility, enhancing driver safety on the road.

🕒 Vehicles Registered Before April 1, 1985:

✅ Front Windscreen

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.

✅ Front Side Windows: These windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.

🕒 For both vehicles registered before and after April 1, 1985:

✅ Rear Windows and Rear Windshield

Irrespective of the vehicle’s registration date, no specific restrictions exist on the darkness of tint applied to the rear side windows and rear windshield. This allows vehicle owners the flexibility to personalize their vehicles while adhering to legal requirements. However, it’s imperative to ensure that the tint does not impede the driver’s view of the road behind the vehicle.

Adhering to these window tinting laws ensures legal compliance, enhances safety on the road, and provides peace of mind while driving in Edinburgh and throughout the UK

Should you tint your Ford Fiesta cars? To know check our blog on Ford Fiesta Tinted Windows: Everything You Need to Know

What Are the Penalties For Not Abiding by Window Tinting Laws in Edinburgh, UK?

In the UK, not complying with window tint laws can lead to various penalties and consequences, such as:

• Prohibition notice: If your vehicle’s windows are found to be illegally tinted, you may be issued a prohibition notice, which restricts you from using your vehicle on the road until the tint is either removed or adjusted to meet legal standards.

• Fixed penalty notice: Police officers or vehicle inspectors may give you a fixed penalty notice, which typically includes a fine and possibly points on your driving license.

• Court proceedings: In more serious cases, or if you ignore a prohibition notice, you might be taken to court. A court conviction could result in a higher fine and additional legal penalties.

• Vehicle impoundment: Continuous failure to adhere to window tint regulations could result in your vehicle being impounded by the authorities.

• MOT failure: During the mandatory annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test, which checks the safety and roadworthiness of your vehicle, if your car’s window tints do not comply with legal standards, your vehicle will fail the test. You won’t be able to legally drive your car until the tints are corrected and the vehicle passes the MOT.

Frequently Asked Questions About Window Tinting Laws in UK

Have a look at some of the frequently asked questions about window tinting laws in UK along with answers in UK:

• What are the legal limits for window tinting in the UK?

In the UK, the legal limits for window tinting are as follows:

• The front windscreen must allow at least 75% of light to pass through.
• The front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
• Do regulations differ for tinting windows behind the driver’s seat?

While there are no specific legal requirements for tinting windows behind the driver, excessive tinting that compromises safety and visibility can still be questioned.

• What happens If you don’t follow window tinting laws in the UK?

Penalties for not abiding by window tint laws in the UK may include:

• Prohibition Notice
• Fixed Penalty Notice
• Court Proceedings
• Vehicle Impoundment
• MOT Failure

We have these in more details in this blog. 

• How does the MOT test relate to window tinting laws in UK?

The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a mandatory annual inspection to ensure that vehicles meet safety and environmental standards. If your car’s window tints do not comply with legal standards during the MOT test, your vehicle will fail, and you won’t be able to legally drive it until the tints are corrected and it passes the MOT.

• Is it permissible to apply window tinting independently, or must it be done professionally?

Window tinting laws in UK specify the required light transmission levels but don’t address who should apply the tint. While some individuals may opt for DIY window tint application, professional installation is often recommended. Professional service ensures adherence to legal standards, proper application without damage to windows, and preservation of visibility.

• Are there exceptions to window tinting regulations?

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.

• How can one verify compliance with legal tinting standards?

Employing a tint meter to measure light transmission through windows is a reliable method to ensure compliance. Additionally, seeking guidance from professional tinting services can offer insights into legal requirements and ensure proper adherence.

• What is the darkest legal tint in the UK?

In the UK, the darkest legal tint allowed on the front side windows is one that allows at least 70% of light to pass through.

• Can you tint your windows in the UK?

Yes, you can tint your windows in the UK, but it must comply with legal limits regarding light transmission.

• Is sun strip tint legal in the UK?

Yes, sun strip tint is legal in the UK, but it must adhere to specific regulations regarding size and placement on the windscreen.

• Do Window Tinting Laws Apply To All Windows In A Car?

Yes, regulations concerning window tinting in the UK are applicable to all windows in a vehicle. However, the specific legal limits and requirements may vary depending on the window’s location.

• Which Windows In Your Car Are Affected By The Law?

The laws regarding window tinting pertain to the following windows:

Front windscreen

Front side windows

• Is Chameleon Windscreen Tint Legal?

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. It’s advisable to seek guidance from local authorities or professionals to ensure compliance with tinting regulations.

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 🤔Why Opt for A-tint Edinburgh for Your Window Tinting Requirements?

Expertise: Our team comprises seasoned professionals with in-depth expertise in window tinting. Rest assured, we possess the skills and knowledge necessary to consistently achieve outstanding outcomes.

Premium Materials: Utilizing only top-grade window tinting films, we guarantee durability, longevity, and superior protection against UV rays. Your satisfaction and safety are our utmost priorities.

 🤔Want to learn about the window tint pricing at A-tint Edinburgh?

The average cost of car window tint is around £90 to  £190. The price may vary on your vehicle manufacturer and model. You can find out more details in our blog “How Much Does it Cost to Tint Car Windows”.