Drivers who use tinted or darkened number plates face the risk of receiving a fine of up to £1,000 and an immediate MOT failure. This warning comes from vehicle recycling marketplace National Scrap Car, which has observed a 22 per cent increase in online searches for “darkened number plates” over the past three months.
Saul Turner, motor expert at National Scrap Car, advises motorists to avoid such modifications. He explains, “The rules around number plates are there for a reason – to keep everyone safe – so your registration must be clearly visible at all times.”
Mr Turner emphasises that number plates need to be clearly readable by other road users, the police and cameras, meaning any alteration that impedes identification can cause serious problems. “If you search for tinted number plates online, you’ll find them for sale very easily, and some sellers advertise them as if they are legal for use on the road – but they are not,” he added.
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Beyond number plates, Mr Turner urges caution with vehicle modifications in general, noting that unsuitable changes can make a car difficult or even impossible to sell. “We’ve seen cases where customers modified their vehicles and then got involved in accidents, only to encounter problems with their insurers refusing to pay out because the modifications weren’t declared,” he said.
Regarding tinted windows, the legal requirements depend on the vehicle’s date of first use. For cars first used on or after 1 April 1985, the front windscreen must allow at least 75 per cent of light through, and the front side windows at least 70 per cent. For vehicles first used before that date, both the front windscreen and front side windows must let at least 70 per cent of light through.
There are no restrictions on tinting the rear windscreen or rear passenger windows. However, it is illegal to fit or sell glass-whether fitted to vehicles or sold separately-that does not comply with these regulations. The police and DVSA vehicle examiners use specialised light measuring equipment to enforce these rules during checks.
Motorists are advised to adhere strictly to these legal standards to avoid fines, MOT failures, and potential insurance complications.