Window tinting is a common customisation option that is opted for by most people for a variety of practical and aesthetic reasons. Unfortunately, some people are unaware that there are legal limits for tinting your car windows, and there are consequences for failing to be within that legal limit.
At Car Specialist Customs, we are proud to offer a wide variety of options when it comes to making your car a unique expression of who you are. We are excited to share with you the option of window tinting.
In this blog, we will be answering the question ‘Can you get points for tinted windows?’ This is vital for anyone considering this customization option, knowing your options can help you make an informed choice on what to get for your vehicle.
The UK automotive aftermarket industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.
The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise to £28 billion by 2022.
What is window tinting?
Window tinting is the process of applying a specialised film on the surface of a window, this process results in a variety of benefits including:
- Extra privacy and security against thieves
- Adds a refined aesthetic to your car
- Can help reduce glare from other road users
- Blocks Ultraviolet rays from the sun, which are damaging to your skin cells. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that window tints in your car can protect you from harmful UV rays, which can cause tanning, premature ageing and can lead to skin cancer.
- Natural direct sunlight is less difficult to drive in
- In the event of a crash, the adhesive may prevent the glass from shattering over anybody.
You can buy window tinting film online or through a service that specialises in car customisation, we recommend the latter as there is less room for mistake when dealing with an expert.
What is the VLT?
The window tint spectrum comes in percentages, which refers to visible light transmission (VLT). VLT is the amount of light that can pass through your window. So, if you choose a 15% tint, this means that 15% of visible light can get through.
As a result, the remaining 85% of light won’t get through. Resulting in less glare from the sun, reduce ultraviolet rays, and less heat getting into your car.
Car Specialist Customs, alongside being a qualified team of car customizers also have a range of tinting options for you to consider, with our options ranging from 70% to 5%. This is done in accordance with the legal parameters set out by the UK government.
It must also be noted that whilst it isn’t illegal to sell a darker film for window tinting purposes, it is illegal to put onto certain parts of your vehicle. Which may result in you being stopped by the police.
That being said, let us tell you the legal requirements for your window tinting.
Are window tints legal?
Yes, window tinting is 100% legal, however, you may be surprised to learn that it actually varies depending on where you choose to apply the tint. Regardless, there are set laws highlighted by the UK government in regard to tinting. There are different legal requirements for the front, back & side windows of your vehicle. We will explain this in further detail.
How dark can I tint my front windows?
Legally, vehicles first used on 1 April 1985 or later must have a front windscreen that lets in at least 75% of light through. The front side windows must let at least 70% of the light through.
For vehicles first used before 1 April 1985, the front windscreen and front side windows must let at least 70% of light through.
You could face a penalty if your car windscreen or windows are incorrectly tinted. It is illegal to fit or sell glass that breaks the rules on tinted windows. It is also illegal to sell a vehicle already fitted with glass that breaks the rules.
How dark can I tint my back windows?
There are no legal requirements for the tint of a back window or back passenger windows.
Car Specialist Customs will always advise you with legal recommendations for window tinting, take a browse through our options to see how you can add the next level of elegance to your car. Still unsure? Check out some alternatives below.
Can you get points for tinted windows?
It is entirely possible for you to get points on your licence for window tints. If your windscreen or front side windows are tinted beyond the legal specification, you it could result in:
- A ‘prohibition notice’ stopping you from using your vehicle on the road until you have the extra tint removed. Using your vehicle whilst under this notice can lead to points, suspension of your driver’s licence, and more.
- A penalty notice or court summons, which can culminate in you getting points on your licence.
How are window tints measured?
The police or the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) vehicle examiners use light-measuring equipment to measure window tint. As we mentioned earlier, tinting levels vary for certain parts of your vehicle. If your tint is beyond that level, the previously mentioned penalties may be applied.
Are Chameleon tints legal?
Car Specialist Customs chameleon tint is different from your standard tints, this particular style of tinting is known for vibrant and changing colours to those looking at it from the outside.
There is no legal specification regarding the colour of a window tint, only the percentages in which windows can be tinted to. Our chameleon tints fall well within the legal range, therefore chameleon tints are legal.
It is always good practice to do your due diligence and research as laws are constantly being updated. However, you are more than welcome to get in contact with us, as we will know if such a law has come into effect.
Order window tinting today
Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.
As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:
Personalisation:
Protection/Security:
Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!
We always will go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.
See what we can do for you today, we hope our starlight service has helped you decide to take a step forward in personalising your vehicle with our unique service.
We hope to have answered the question ‘Can you get points for tinted windows?’ whilst also providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in customisation options for your vehicle.
Want to get in touch? You can find us right here:
WORKSHOP:
Unit 30
Caldershaw Centre
Ings Ln
Rochdale
OL12 7LQ
OPENING TIMES:
Monday – Wednesday – 10 AM – 7 PM
Thursday – Closed
Friday – Sunday – 11 AM – 7 PM
TELEPHONE:
07523 971347 (Mon – Fri: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm)
EMAIL:
info@carspecialistcustoms.co.uk