How to Check Car Window Tinting Level

Let’s be honest: tinted windows can make any vehicle look fancier. But there are also some practical considerations. Not only do they provide extra privacy, but they also protect you from UV radiation. But you can’t just go ahead and tint your windows as much as you want. There are rules and regulations, and if the windows are too dark you may be breaking the law.

There’s no universal standard, and every country sets its own rules. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the UK car tinting law. We’ll also show you the best way to check your car window tinting level.

VLT Standards Explained

If your car windows are suspiciously dark, the police may stop you and ask you to do a VLT test. Before we explain the meaning of the results of the test, we’ll first explain what the test is all about. VLT stands for Visible Light Transmitted through the glass. Of course, this test could be performed on any window.

According to UK law, your front door windows need to score at least 70% on a VLT test. It means that at least 70% of visible light should be able to enter through your window. Bear in mind that even with all accessories fitted to the glass, such as window tints, your car has to meet this standard.

In addition, front windscreens need to have at least 75% on a VLT test. It may seem high, but it’s a reasonable requirement, due to safety concerns.

How Is the VLT Test Performed?

It isn’t difficult to do the test and read the results, but you need to have the right equipment. Traffic police throughout the UK carry a VLT meter in their cars. If they stop you on the road and ask to check your glass, they’ll measure a VLT index for each window.

To get objective results, they need to attach a VLT meter to the multiple spots on your window, as not all of them have the same index. Then, they calculate the average index and check whether it’s in accordance with the law. The whole operation lasts only a couple of minutes, but it can have serious consequences.

If your car windows don’t meet these standards, you can get a penalty fine as well as three penalty points. Don’t worry, as there’s an easy way to avoid this. All you have to do is check your VLT level and take some measures to adjust it.

Where Can I Do It?

Recently, some apps for measuring VLT level became popular. However, you shouldn’t take them too seriously as they’re not 100% accurate. It’s okay to use them, but just for fun or out of curiosity. If the police stop you and your window tint turns out to be illegal, they won’t accept the excuse that the app told you your tint was fine.

It’s always better to ask professionals by visiting a Window Tinting Service. Glasgow residents feel more secure when they have their windows validated by trained staff. Although professionals are often able to tell you everything after a quick glance, tinting workshops have the same VLT meters used by police. This is the only way to be sure that you get accurate results.

That’s not the only benefit of talking to a professional. If it turns out your windows are too dark, they can give you useful tips on what can you do to fix them.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Many people try to save money hiring non-professionals to tint their windows. It might seem like a cost-effective solution at the time, but it can have severe consequences on your budget later. When choosing a workshop, always look for one that has VLT meter so you can immediately check the brightness of your windows.

If you’re concerned that the law might change, it’s always sensible to check with your window tinting professional, so you can have peace of mind.