Changes from 1 November 2026
Private hire vehicles will be allowed to have darker rear windows, provided they meet the legal light transmission standards below.
Window tint requirements
The following window tint requirements must be met for licensed vehicles:
- front windscreen: must allow at least 75% of light through
- front side windows: must allow at least 70% of light through
- windows behind the B-pillar (rear side windows and rear window): must allow at least 30% of light through for Private Hire vehicles only
- Hackney Carriage vehicles must allow at least 70% of light through windows behind the B-pillar
Important
- Tinted films and aftermarket window tint kits are not permitted on any vehicle windows
- Any factory-fitted tint must still comply with the required light transmission levels
What is the B-pillar?
The B-pillar is the vertical pillar between the front and rear side doors. The 30% light transmission rule only applies to windows behind this pillar.
Checking your window tint
If you are unsure whether your vehicle meets the required standards, you can check the details within the vehicles manufacturer specification and also by using a specialised digital tint meter, before presenting the vehicle for licensing inspection.