EXPLAINER: What to know about Police’s tinted glass permit enforcement

Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has renewed enforcement of the law regulating the use of tinted vehicle windows, reminding motorists that only authorised persons are permitted to drive vehicles with tinted glass.

The clarification was made by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anieti Ukukun Inedu, who explained the legal basis for the enforcement, who qualifies for a permit, and the penalties for violating the law.

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Here are the key things every motorist should know.

What is a tinted glass permit?

A tinted glass permit is an official authorisation issued by the Nigeria Police Force allowing an individual to legally use a vehicle with tinted windows.

According to the police, the permit is issued in line with the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act, which regulates the use of tinted glass in Nigeria.

Why is the law being enforced?

The police said the enforcement is aimed at improving public safety and national security.

Tinted windows can make it difficult for security personnel to see inside vehicles during stop-and-search operations, a situation the police say has been exploited by kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminal elements.

The renewed enforcement is intended to ensure that only persons with legitimate reasons use tinted vehicles.

Can anyone tint their vehicle?

No.

The police explained that the law generally prohibits the use of tinted glass unless the owner has obtained official approval from the Nigeria Police Force.

Motorists whose vehicles come with factory-fitted tinted windows are also expected to obtain a valid police permit.

Who qualifies for a tinted permit?

According to the police, permits are issued mainly to individuals with:

• Certified medical conditions requiring protection from sunlight.
• Genuine security concerns that justify the use of tinted glass.

Applicants are expected to undergo an assessment before approval is granted.

Where can motorists obtain the permit?

The police advised eligible applicants to visit the nearest:

• State Police Command; or
• Police Force Headquarters,

where designated officers will process applications after verification.

What should motorists do during police checks?

Motorists driving vehicles with tinted windows should present their valid tinted glass permit whenever requested by police officers at checkpoints or during routine patrols.

According to the police, officers are expected to allow motorists to proceed once the permit is verified.

What is the punishment for violating the law?

The Force Public Relations Officer said the prescribed penalty under the law is:

• A fine of ₦2,000, or
• Six months imprisonment, or
• Both the fine and imprisonment.

He added that such cases are expected to be prosecuted before a Federal High Court.

Can police officers collect money from motorists?

No.

The police warned that officers are not permitted to demand or collect money from motorists over tinted glass violations.

Any officer who attempts to extort motorists is acting unlawfully.

What should motorists do if they are harassed?

The police urged members of the public to report any officer involved in extortion, intimidation or misconduct through the Inspector-General of Police’s complaint channels.

Motorists can contact the IGP through:

• 080570000001 (Voice calls)
• 080570000002 (Alternative voice line)
• 080570000003 (SMS and WhatsApp)

What motorists should remember

The Nigeria Police advised motorists to:

• Obtain a valid tinted permit before using a tinted vehicle.
• Cooperate with officers during lawful stop-and-search operations.
• Present their permit whenever requested.
• Refuse to pay illegal fees or bribes.
• Report any officer involved in extortion or abuse of office.

The Force said the enforcement exercise is intended to strengthen security across the country while ensuring that eligible motorists can continue using tinted vehicles within the provisions of the law.