[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.thewindscreencompany.co.uk\/blog\/is-it-illegal-to-drive-with-a-chipped-windscreen"},"headline":"Is It Illegal to Drive with a Chipped Windscreen?","description":"Driving with a chipped windscreen can be more serious than many drivers think. Learn when it\u2019s illegal, how it affects your MOT, and why prompt repairs are essential.","image":"https:\/\/www.thewindscreencompany.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/chipped-windscreen.jpg","author":{"@type":"Organization","name":"The Windscreen Company","url":"https:\/\/www.thewindscreencompany.co.uk"},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"The Windscreen Company","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.thewindscreencompany.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/logo.png"}},"datePublished":"2025-08-15","dateModified":"2025-08-15","articleSection":"Vehicle Safety","keywords":["chipped windscreen","windscreen repair","MOT failure","driving laws UK","windscreen damage"],"articleBody":"A damaged windscreen can spell disaster for any vehicle, but sometimes drivers may be tempted to ignore the problem. Our vehicles are often integral to our day-to-day lives, helping us get to work, embark on the school run and make our daily tasks and chores easier. With this in mind, people often neglect small chips because, after all, they can\u2019t do that much damage, right? In truth, even small chips can soon become extremely dangerous if not properly addressed, and in some cases, you may even be breaking the law. Yes, in some cases it is illegal to drive with a chipped windscreen. This will depend on the severity of the chip and its location on the windscreen. Zone A on the driver\u2019s side is the most crucial, and damage here can obstruct vision. If stopped by police, you could face penalties including points and fines. A chipped windscreen can also fail an MOT if it\u2019s 40mm or larger anywhere on the glass, or 10mm in Zone A. Prompt repairs are always recommended to avoid worsening damage and higher costs. The Windscreen Company offers mobile repairs across the West Midlands and South East."},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"Is it illegal to drive with a chipped windscreen?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, in some cases it is illegal to drive with a chipped windscreen. This depends on the size and location of the chip. Damage in the crucial Zone A on the driver\u2019s side can obscure vision, making the vehicle dangerous. If stopped by police, you could face fines and points on your licence."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Will a chipped windscreen fail an MOT?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. If the chip is 40mm or larger anywhere on the windscreen, it will fail an MOT. In Zone A, damage as small as 10mm will also result in failure. Vehicles failing an MOT are considered unroadworthy and must be repaired immediately."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"When should I repair a chipped windscreen?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You should repair a chipped windscreen as soon as you notice it. Small chips can quickly spread, obstruct vision, or turn into cracks requiring full replacement. Early repairs are usually cheaper and prevent further damage."}}]}]
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