If you own a vehicle with tinted windows in Nigeria, obtaining a tinted glass permit in Nigeria is now a legal requirement that cannot be overlooked. The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has implemented this mandatory system to enhance national security whilst regulating the use of tinted glass on Nigerian roads.
Moreover, the permit system serves multiple purposes beyond security concerns. It helps law enforcement agencies identify legitimate vehicle owners, reduces criminal activities involving tinted vehicles, and ensures that only qualified individuals or entities with factory-fitted tinted glass receive authorisation. Additionally, this regulation aligns with international best practices for vehicle identification and road safety.
Furthermore, the legal framework supporting tinted glass permits is grounded in Section 66(2) of the National Road Traffic Regulation (1997) and Section 1(1) of the Motor Vehicle (prohibition of tinted glass) Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria. Consequently, vehicle owners must comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and legal complications whilst driving on Nigerian roads.
Types of Tinted Glasses Available in Nigeria
The Nigeria Police Force has classified motor vehicle tinted glass into specific categories to help vehicle owners understand their permit requirements. Understanding these classifications is crucial for determining whether your vehicle qualifies for a tinted glass permit.
Factory-Fitted Tinted Glass
This category includes vehicles that come directly from manufacturers with pre-installed tinted windows. These vehicles typically have tinted glass integrated during the production process, making them eligible for permits. Examples include luxury vehicles like Range Rovers, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and other premium brands that incorporate privacy glass as standard features.
Medical Exemption Tinted Glass
Vehicles belonging to individuals with specific medical conditions that require protection from sunlight or UV rays fall into this category. Applicants must provide medical certificates from recognised healthcare professionals to qualify. Conditions such as photosensitivity, skin cancer, or other light-related medical issues typically warrant this classification.
VIP/Government Official Tinted Glass
This classification covers vehicles used by government officials, diplomats, and individuals requiring enhanced security protection. These permits are issued based on official designation and security clearance requirements. Federal ministers, governors, diplomats, and other high-ranking officials typically qualify for this category.
Commercial/Corporate Tinted Glass
Corporate organisations and businesses operating vehicle fleets may qualify for this permit type, particularly for executive transport services. Banks, multinational companies, and security firms often fall into this category when operating specialised vehicles requiring privacy glass for business operations.
The Processes of Obtaining a Motor Vehicle Tinted Glass Permit
The Nigeria Police Force has established two distinct pathways for obtaining your motor vehicle tinted glass permit, designed to eliminate bottlenecks and provide convenient access for all applicants. These streamlined processes ensure transparency whilst reducing human interference in the application procedure.
How to Apply Online for a Tinted Glass Permit in Nigeria
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has introduced a streamlined digital application process for tinted glass permits as part of efforts to promote transparency, reduce human interference, and eliminate exploitation by third-party agents. The tinted glass permit portal provides a secure, user-friendly platform accessible from anywhere.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply Online
- Visit the Official Portal: Navigate to the official POSSAP website at possap.gov.ng or the dedicated tinted permit portal at https://possap.gov.ng/
- Create Your Account: Click on Signup button at the top of the page, then register a new account by providing your email address, phone number, and creating a secure password. Verify your email through the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
- Complete Personal Information: Fill in your personal details including full name, address, occupation, and valid identification numbers (NIN, driver’s licence, or international passport).
- Select Service Type: Choose “Tinted Glass Permit” from the available services menu and select your specific category based on your vehicle type and requirements.
- Upload Vehicle Documents: Submit clear copies of your vehicle registration documents, proof of ownership, driver’s licence, and any supporting medical certificates if applicable.
- Vehicle Details Entry: Input comprehensive vehicle information including make, model, year, chassis number, engine number, and registration number accurately.
- Document Upload: Attach high-quality photographs of your vehicle showing all tinted windows, vehicle registration certificate, and any additional supporting documents.
- Payment Processing: Complete the required payment using available online payment methods including debit cards, bank transfers, or mobile payment platforms.
- Biometric Appointment: Schedule your biometric capture and vehicle inspection appointment at the nearest police facility through the portal’s booking system.
Applying Directly from the NPF (Nigeria Police) Head Quarter
Applicants with challenges of processing their application online can go to the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) within their State Police Command or the FHQ Abuja for support. This alternative method accommodates individuals who prefer face-to-face assistance or lack reliable internet access.
- Visit Your State Command: Locate your nearest State Intelligence Bureau (SIB) office within your State Police Command headquarters during official working hours.
- Obtain Application Forms: Collect the official tinted glass permit application forms and information booklet from the designated officer.
- Complete Documentation: Fill out all required forms accurately and gather necessary supporting documents as specified in the requirements checklist.
- Submit Application: Present your completed application with all supporting documents to the processing officer for initial review and verification.
- Pay Required Fees: Make payment through the designated channels at the police facility, ensuring you receive official receipts for all transactions.
- Biometric Capture: Complete your biometric data capture and provide passport photographs as required by the processing officer.
- Vehicle Inspection: Schedule and attend the mandatory vehicle inspection where officers will verify your vehicle details against submitted documents.
Cost of Obtaining Tinted Glass Permit
The financial investment for obtaining your tinted permit in Nigeria varies depending on your chosen application method, though both pathways maintain reasonable pricing structures. Online applications typically offer more cost-effective options due to reduced administrative overhead and streamlined processing procedures.
When applying through the digital tinted glass permit portal, applicants generally pay standard processing fees that cover application review, biometric capture, and permit issuance. The online system eliminates additional costs associated with multiple visits to police facilities, transportation expenses, and potential informal fees that might arise during manual processing.
Conversely, direct applications at NPF headquarters or state commands may involve additional expenses beyond the basic permit fee. These might include transportation costs for multiple visits, document photocopying fees, and potential administrative charges that vary across different locations and processing centres throughout Nigeria.
Tinted Glass Permit Deadline
The deadline for tinted glass permit compliance has been extended to October 2, 2025, following significant public response to the digital application system. The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has approved a further extension of the grace period for the enforcement of the Tinted Glass Permit requirement for vehicles with tinted windows, with the new enforcement date now set for 2nd October, 2025.
This extension acknowledges the substantial increase in applications whilst providing adequate time for vehicle owners to complete their registration process. The permit has become a valid legal document backed by the National Road Traffic Regulation (1997) and the Motor Vehicle (prohibition of tinted glass) Act, making compliance mandatory for all qualifying vehicles.
Vehicle owners must understand that regardless of when they purchased their cars, obtaining the appropriate permit is now a legal obligation. The legislation applies retroactively to all existing vehicles with tinted glass, ensuring comprehensive coverage and uniform enforcement across Nigeria.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a tinted glass permit in Nigeria?Â
The online application process typically takes 7-14 working days from submission to permit issuance, depending on verification requirements and appointment scheduling.
Can I drive my tinted vehicle while waiting for permit approval?Â
Yes, you may continue driving during the application process, but ensure you carry your application receipt and submitted documents as proof of ongoing compliance efforts.
What happens if I don’t get a tinted glass permit before the deadline?Â
Vehicles without valid permits after October 2, 2025, may face penalties including fines, vehicle impoundment, or removal of tinted glass at the owner’s expense.
Do all tinted vehicles require permits in Nigeria?Â
Yes, all motor vehicles with any form of tinted glass, whether factory-fitted or aftermarket installation, must obtain appropriate permits from the Nigeria Police Force.
Can I apply for multiple vehicles under one account on the tinted glass permit portal?Â
Yes, the digital portal allows multiple vehicle registrations under a single user account, streamlining the process for fleet owners or individuals with multiple vehicles.
Conclusion
Successfully obtaining your tinted glass permit in Nigeria requires understanding the available application methods, proper documentation, and adherence to specified timelines. The Nigeria Police Force’s digital transformation has significantly simplified this process, making compliance more accessible whilst maintaining security standards. Therefore, vehicle owners should take advantage of the extended deadline to complete their applications promptly and avoid potential enforcement actions.