Window tinting in UK – how much is too much?

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Dillon Johnston
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  U.K. law states that any vehicle first used April 1, 1985, or later must let at least 75 percent of light though the front windshield and at least 70 percent of light through the front side windows.

Vehicles which do not adhere to this standard may be penalized in a number of ways. Depending on how severe the tint is, the driver may receive a prohibition notice, which prohibits the use of the vehicle on roads until the tint is removed, a penalty notice or a court summons.

Police Constable Paul Glover, defence community police officer from Beck Row, Suffolk, believes the excessive tinting of vehicle windows is not only illegal, but a safety concern.

"It's like driving at night with sunglasses on," Glover said. "If you are looking out the side window and it is dusk, you might miss a child walking into the road.

"Safety is paramount. We would rather prevent accidents than write tickets," he added.

Along with the safety of those on the road or sidewalk, Glover also says it's a security issue.

"It's a police issue and it's illegal - plus - we like to see who is driving the vehicle," Glover said.

If Team Mildenhall members have any doubt that their windows do not meet the regulation, Glover says they can get their vehicles tested.

"We have the machine. If anyone wants to come and get theirs tested, they can quite easily call us," he stated.

For more information on the tinting laws in the U.K., visit https://www.gov.uk/tinted-vehicle-window-rules or call Glover at DSN 226-1852 or commercial at 07901-77-3878.