Everything You Need to Know About Tinted Windows in the Taxi Industry
As a taxi driver, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest regulations and changes in the industry. In doing so, you can ensure that your taxi is always on the road and ready for business.
We’re looking at the rules around tinted windows in taxis and everything you need to know about them.
What are the regulations around tinted windows?
The UK Government has several rules around tinted front windscreens and front side windows.
Vehicles first used on 1st April 1985 or later must:
- Let at least 75% of light through the front windscreen
- Let at least 70% of light through the front side windows
Failure to comply with these laws could result in a ‘prohibition notice’. This means that you can’t drive your taxi until the extra tint is removed.
You could also receive a penalty notice or court summons.
Recent tinted window best practice guidance
In November 2023, the Department for Transport (DfT) released new best practice guidance on tinted windows.
It acknowledged the fact that there are no rules around the tinting of windows rear to the B-pillar. As well as highlighting that many luxury, estate and SUV vehicles are typically manufactured with darker rear glass.
To replace the standard manufacturer glass brings added costs and inconvenience. But it can put passengers at ease if they prefer a vehicle without heavily tinted rear windows for safety reasons.
To balance these concerns, it was announced that tinted windows to the rear of the B-pillar do not need to be replaced. This is on the provision that they allow a minimum of 30% light transmission or more.
However, it was recognised that this may still impact some executive hire vehicles where passengers need more privacy. But many local authorities already have executive hire vehicle exemptions in place.
How are local authorities addressing the issues?
Local councils across the UK are implementing their own measures to allow vehicles with darker tinted windows to be licensed.
Authorities in South Ribble and Vale of White Horse allow darker tinted windows on the provision that the vehicle has CCTV installed. One of the key issues around tinted windows is safety and CCTV addresses this, keeping a visual record of any incidents.
However, it’s important to check regulations in your local area to ensure that your vehicle is compliant.
Stay informed on taxi industry news with The Taxi Centre
We hope you’re up to speed on window tinting regulations, but if you are still unsure – don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our expert team can advise on rules in individual areas, so you aren’t caught out.
If you are in the market for a new vehicle, don’t forget to view our great range of new taxi deals. Our collection includes standard, hybrid and electric taxis to suit all needs and budgets.