Can You Tint Front Window Uk?
Window tinting is a popular practice that many car owners in the UK opt for. It provides several benefits such as reducing heat and glare, blocking harmful UV rays, and increasing privacy. However, one question that arises frequently is whether it is legal to tint front windows in the UK. In this article, we will explore the legality of front window tinting in the UK, the benefits and drawbacks of tinting, and the different types of tints available in the market.
Is it Legal to Tint Front Windows in the UK?
The law in the UK states that front windscreens must let at least 75% of light through, and front side windows must let at least 70% of light through. This means that only the rear windows and rear windscreen can be tinted legally, as they do not have any minimum light transmission requirements. Therefore, it is illegal to tint the front windows in the UK beyond the legal limit.
What are the Penalties for Illegal Front Window Tinting?
If you are caught driving with illegal front window tinting, you may receive a prohibition notice from the police, which means that you will have to remove the tint immediately. If you fail to remove the tint, you may receive a £50 fixed penalty notice and three points on your driving license. In more severe cases, you may also face a court summons and a fine of up to £1,000.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Tinting
Benefits of Tinting
Tinting offers several benefits, including:
- Reducing heat and glare: Tinting can reduce the amount of heat and glare that enters your car, making it more comfortable to drive, especially during hot weather.
- Blocking harmful UV rays: Tinting can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, which can cause skin cancer and premature aging.
- Increasing privacy: Tinting can make it harder for people to see inside your car, which can increase privacy and security.
- Protecting upholstery: Tinting can also protect your car's interior from fading and cracking due to sun exposure.
Drawbacks of Tinting
While tinting offers several benefits, it also has some drawbacks, including:
- Reduced visibility: Tinting can reduce visibility, especially at night or in low-light conditions, which can be dangerous.
- Difficulty in cleaning: Tinting can make it harder to clean the windows, as some types of tints may require specific cleaning methods.
- Illegal tinting: As mentioned earlier, tinting front windows beyond the legal limit is illegal and can result in penalties and fines.
Types of Tints Available in the Market
There are several types of tints available in the market, including:
- Dyed tint: This type of tint absorbs heat and reduces glare, but it does not offer much UV protection and may fade over time.
- Metalized tint: This type of tint reflects heat and provides good UV protection, but it may interfere with electronic devices and GPS signals.
- Ceramic tint: This type of tint is the most expensive but offers the best heat and UV protection, without interfering with electronic devices or GPS signals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is illegal to tint front windows in the UK beyond the legal limit. While tinting offers several benefits, it also has some drawbacks, including reduced visibility, difficulty in cleaning, and the risk of illegal tinting. If you decide to tint your car windows, it is essential to choose a reputable installer and ensure that the tints are within the legal limit.