A Tinted Permit is absolutely required in Nigeria today, and the system for getting one has been completely updated for 2025.

For years, Nigerian drivers have navigated a confusing landscape of rules, suspensions, and enforcement regarding tinted vehicle glass. However, we can now state with confidence that the uncertainty is over.

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has rolled out a new, fully digital system for the issuance of tinted glass permits, and enforcement is currently active.

This is not just a policy update; it is a decisive move to bring clarity, enhance national security, and end the harassment law-abiding citizens have often faced.

This definitive guide will walk you through the entire landscape of the new Tinted permit in Nigeria 2025.

We will confidently explain the official position of the “IGP on tinted permit,” show you how to use the new “Tinted permit portal,” and detail the exact “Tinted permit requirements.”

Whether you are looking to complete a “Tinted permit application” or simply want to understand the law to drive with peace of mind, this article provides the clear, authoritative answers you need.

Yes, You Need a Permit!

Let’s clear all doubts from the start: If you drive a vehicle with any level of tint on its windows in Nigeria, you are legally required to have a valid Tinted Permit.

This applies to all types of tinted glass, including the privacy glass that comes directly from the car manufacturer (often called factory-fitted tints).

For a period, the issuance of new permits was suspended.

This decision, made by a former Inspector-General of Police in 2022, was aimed at tackling the serious security threats posed by criminals using tinted vehicles to commit crimes like kidnapping and armed robbery.

While the intention was to improve security, the suspension created significant confusion and led to widespread complaints from motorists who were being harassed by law enforcement officers, even for factory-fitted tints they had no control over.

Recognizing this major issue, the current Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, made a decisive change.

In May 2025, the NPF tinted permit system was officially reactivated, but with a modern, digital overhaul.

After a 30-day grace period for motorists to comply, full enforcement of the new permit requirement began on June 1, 2025. The message from the police is now crystal clear: if your glass is tinted, a permit is non-negotiable.

IGP on Tinted Permit

The current stance of the Nigeria Police Force, as directed by the Inspector-General of Police, is built on three core principles: enhancing national security, improving police transparency, and protecting law-abiding citizens from harassment.

The new policy is not just about regulation; it is a strategic response to the realities of modern crime and public feedback.

Enhancing National Security:

The primary security concern has always been the criminal misuse of tinted vehicles.

Darkened windows make it difficult for law enforcement officers to see inside a vehicle, which can provide cover for transporting illegal arms, kidnapping victims, or evading identification after a crime.

The “IGP on tinted permit” has been firm that a regulated system is crucial to distinguish legitimate users from those with criminal intent.

By creating a secure database of all legally permitted tinted vehicles, the NPF can enhance its investigative capabilities and make it harder for criminals to operate anonymously.

Improving Transparency and Accountability:

The new “Tinted permit portal” is at the heart of the police’s commitment to transparency. The previous manual system was often criticized for being slow, cumbersome, and prone to corruption.

The new digital process is designed to be clear, fast, and accountable. Every application is logged, and the issuance of a digital, QR-coded permit makes verification on the roadside instant and foolproof.

This reduces the chances for disputes and extortion.

Ending Undue Harassment:

The leadership of the Nigeria Police Force has been very vocal about addressing the widespread public complaints regarding harassment.

The new system was specifically launched to create a clear and accountable process for regularizing factory-fitted tinted glass.

The police leadership has issued strong warnings that any officer found extorting or harassing motorists under the guise of enforcing the tinted glass policy will face strict disciplinary action.

The goal is to ensure that officers can effectively do their jobs while respecting the rights of every citizen.

In short, the official position is a confident step forward, using technology to solve a longstanding problem. It aims to create a win-win situation: stronger security for the nation and clearer, fairer rules for the motorist.

Tinted Permit Portal

The days of physically visiting multiple offices to process your Tinted Permit application are over. The Nigeria Police Force has launched a centralized, secure, and user-friendly online platform to handle the entire process.

This is the official Tinted permit portal, known as the Police Specialized Services Automation Project (POSSAP).

The portal can be accessed at: www.possap.gov.ng

This digital gateway is your one-stop shop for obtaining a new permit. It is designed to be efficient, with the NPF stating that a permit can be processed and issued within 72 hours of a successful application.

Key features of the new portal include:

• Online Application: You can complete your entire “Tinted permit online” application from the comfort of your home or office.
• Secure Identity Verification: The system integrates with national databases to verify your identity using your National Identification Number (NIN) or Tax Identification Number (TIN). This ensures that permits are issued only to properly identified individuals and corporate bodies.
• Digital, QR-Coded Permits: Once approved, you will receive a digital permit that features a unique QR code. When stopped by an officer, they can simply scan this QR code with a verified device to instantly confirm the authenticity and details of your permit. This eliminates any debate over the validity of your document.
• Real-Time Tracking: You can track the status of your application in real-time through your dashboard on the portal.

The launch of this portal represents a major shift in how the NPF tinted permit is managed.

It is a confident move towards leveraging technology to deliver modern, efficient, and citizen-friendly policing services. For every motorist, this means a more convenient and transparent path to legal compliance.

Tinted Permit Requirements

To successfully complete your Tinted permit application through the new online portal, you need to have the right documents and information ready.

The process is designed to be thorough to ensure security and authenticity. Being prepared will make your application smooth and fast.

Here are the official “Tinted permit requirements” you will need for your online submission:

1. Identity Verification Number: This is the first and most crucial requirement.
   • For individual applicants: Your National Identification Number (NIN).
   • For corporate applicants: Your Tax Identification Number (TIN). Ensure this number is valid and matches your personal details exactly.
2. Vehicle Information: You must provide comprehensive details about the vehicle for which the permit is sought. This includes:
   • Vehicle Make (e.g., Toyota, Honda)
   • Vehicle Model (e.g., Camry, Accord)
   • Vehicle Year of Manufacture
   • Vehicle Registration Number (Plate Number)
   • Chassis Number (also known as the VIN)
   • Engine Number
3. Proof of Ownership and Registration: You will need to upload clear, scanned copies of the following vehicle documents:
   • Vehicle Registration Certificate / Proof of Ownership
   • Valid Vehicle License
   • Valid Car Insurance Certificate
4. Personal Details and Documents:
   • Your full name, address, and phone number.
   • A recent, clear passport photograph of yourself.
5. Reason for Permit Request: The application will require you to state the reason for needing a tinted permit. The two primary acceptable reasons are:
   • Medical Grounds: If you require tinted glass for a health condition (e.g., a skin condition that makes you sensitive to sunlight), you must provide a current and valid medical report from a recognized government hospital. You will need to upload this report and may be required to present the original during the biometric capture stage.
   • Security Grounds: If the permit is required for security reasons, you must provide a detailed explanation. This is often applicable to individuals holding sensitive positions or those who have credible security threats against them. The NPF will conduct its own background checks to validate such claims.
6. Biometric Data Capture: After submitting your application and making the required payment online, you will be scheduled for a biometric capture appointment. This involves having your fingerprints and photograph taken at a designated Nigeria Police Force Intelligence Department office. This is a mandatory step to complete the application process.

Having all these “Tinted permit requirements” in order before you start your “Tinted permit online” application will ensure a hassle-free experience.

Factory-Fitted Tints vs. Aftermarket Tints

One of the most common points of confusion for Nigerian drivers is the difference between factory-fitted tinted glass and aftermarket tints.

Many people believe that if their car came with tinted windows directly from the manufacturer, they do not need a permit. This is a major misconception, and understanding the official rule is vital.

Let’s break it down with confidence:

Factory-Fitted Tinted Glass:

This refers to the privacy glass that is installed in a vehicle during its manufacturing process. It is common in many modern SUVs and luxury vehicles.

The glass itself is darkened; it is not a film. While the police acknowledge that this is a standard feature in many modern cars, the law – the Motor Vehicles (Prohibition of Tinted Glass) Act – does not make a distinction.

You are still legally required to obtain a Tinted Permit for factory-fitted tinted glass.

In fact, one of the primary reasons the new “Tinted permit portal” was launched was to provide a clear and legal way for owners of such vehicles to regularize their use and avoid harassment.

Aftermarket Tints (Films):

This is when a clear vehicle window has a dark film or laminate applied to it after the car has been manufactured. This is a modification done by the car owner.

The law is even stricter on this. Applying a film to your car windows to tint them is generally illegal unless you have been granted a permit on very specific medical or security grounds.

The new application process will rigorously vet these reasons before a permit is issued.

The Bottom Line:

The source of the tint does not matter. Whether your car’s windows were darkened in a factory in Japan or a workshop in Lagos, if they are not clear glass, the law requires you to have a valid, up-to-date NPF tinted permit.

Confidently embracing this fact is the first step to ensuring you are always on the right side of the law. Do not assume your factory-fitted tint gives you a free pass. Use the new digital system to get the required permit and drive with complete assurance. The “Tinted permit in Nigeria 2025” policy is designed to be comprehensive, covering all forms of tinted glass to ensure a uniform standard for security and enforcement.

Navigating a Roadside Stop: Your Confident Guide

Knowing the law is your first line of defense. Knowing how to conduct yourself during a police stop is your second.

If you are stopped by a police officer regarding your tinted windows, your confidence and knowledge can make all the difference. Panicking or becoming confrontational will only escalate the situation.

Here is a confident, step-by-step guide on how to handle the encounter:

1. Stay Calm and Be Respectful: As soon as you are flagged down, find a safe place to pull over completely. Turn off your engine, roll down your window, and keep your hands visible (for example, on the steering wheel). Greet the officer politely. A respectful attitude sets a positive tone for the entire interaction.
2. Present Your Documents Confidently: The officer will likely ask for your vehicle documents. Have them ready and organized. This should include:
   • Your Driver’s License
   • Your Vehicle License
   • Your Proof of Ownership
   • Your valid Car Insurance certificate
   • And most importantly, your Tinted Permit.
3. Utilize Your Digital Permit: Your new permit is your most powerful tool. You can present it in two ways:
   • Digital Copy: Have the downloaded digital permit saved on your smartphone. Show the officer the screen.
   • Printed Copy: It is always a good idea to have a printed copy in your glove compartment as a backup. The key feature is the QR code. You can confidently ask the officer to scan the QR code for instant verification through their official channels. This immediately proves your permit is authentic and linked to your specific vehicle in the official NIID database.
4. Know Your Rights, But Communicate Politely: You have the right to be treated with respect. If you have a valid permit, there should be no issue. If an officer insists your permit is invalid despite the QR code, politely but firmly stand your ground. You can say something like, “Officer, I obtained this permit through the official POSSAP portal as directed by the IGP. You can please verify it with the QR code.”
5. Avoid Arguments Over “Factory-Fitted” Status: Do not get into a roadside debate about whether your tint is factory-fitted or not. The law requires a permit for both. Your argument is not that you don’t need a permit; your confident position is that you have a valid permit.
6. Report Any Misconduct: The current “IGP on tinted permit” has made it clear that extortion and harassment will not be tolerated. If you believe an officer is acting unprofessionally or trying to extort you despite having a valid permit, do not engage in a heated argument. Instead, take note of the officer’s name, rank, and service number if possible. You can report the incident later through official NPF complaint channels, such as the Police Public Complaint Committee (PPCC).

By having your valid, verifiable Tinted Permit and handling the situation calmly and confidently, you can turn a potentially stressful stop into a routine check.

Tinted Permit in Nigeria 2025

The landscape for the Tinted permit in Nigeria 2025 is clearer and more defined than it has been in years. The move to a fully digital, centralized system is a significant and confident step into the future of policing and public service in Nigeria. So, what can we expect going forward?

1. Consistent and Sustained Enforcement: With the new system firmly in place and the grace period over, we can expect the Nigeria Police Force to maintain consistent enforcement. The ease of verification with QR codes means officers can quickly and accurately check a vehicle’s status, leaving little room for ambiguity. Motorists without a valid permit will find it increasingly difficult to avoid penalties.

2. Focus on Technology: The POSSAP portal is likely just the beginning. The NPF has indicated a strong commitment to leveraging technology to improve its services. We can anticipate further refinements to the “Tinted permit portal,” potentially including a mobile app for even easier management and renewal processes. This technological drive aims to continuously improve efficiency and reduce corruption.

3. Potential for Policy Reviews: While the current system is now active, laws and policies can evolve. There has been some public discussion regarding the fee and whether the permit should be a one-off issuance or require periodic renewal. The “IGP on tinted permit” has indicated that the police are open to reviews based on operational feedback and public consultation. Motorists should stay informed through official NPF channels for any future updates on the policy or the “Tinted permit requirements.”

4. Increased Public Awareness and Compliance: As more people become aware of the clear, streamlined process for getting a “Tinted permit online,” compliance levels are expected to rise. The previous confusion and frustration were major barriers. With a transparent system, more citizens will likely choose the path of legality, further strengthening the system’s security objectives.

The future points towards a more predictable and orderly environment. The policy for Tinted Permit in Nigeria 2025 and beyond is built on the foundation of technology and transparency. For the Nigerian driver, this means the rules are clear, the process is accessible, and the ability to drive with confidence is firmly within reach.

Tinted Permit Still Required in Nigeria – FAQs

The use of tinted windows on vehicles in Nigeria has long been a subject of debate, regulation, and enforcement.

Here’s a comprehensive FAQ guide to help you understand the current laws, requirements, and implications regarding tinted permits in Nigeria.

1. Is a Tinted Permit Still Required in Nigeria?

Yes, as of the latest regulations from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), a tinted permit is still required for vehicles with tinted windows that fall below the legal visibility threshold.

However, in practice, many FRSC officers may not always check for this permit specifically — but they can penalize drivers if the tint exceeds legally allowed limits (see question #3).

2. What Is a Tinted Permit?

A tinted permit is an official document issued by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) that authorizes the use of tinted films on vehicle windows beyond the standard legal limit.

This permit is usually issued after an application process and inspection to ensure the level of tinting meets safety and security standards.

3. What Are the Legal Tint Limits in Nigeria?

According to the FRSC tinting guidelines:

Note: VLT refers to the percentage of visible light allowed through the glass. Higher percentages mean lighter tints.

4. How Do I Apply for a Tinted Permit?

Here’s a general procedure:

1. Visit your nearest FRSC office or e-permit portal.
2. Fill out the tinted window permit application form.
3. Undergo a tint inspection using a VLT meter.
4. Pay the applicable fee (usually around ₦5,000–₦10,000).
5. Receive your permit (usually laminated ID card size).

Always carry the permit along with your insurance and driver’s license when driving.

5. How Much Does a Tinted Permit Cost?

As of recent years:

• Initial application: ₦5,000 – ₦10,000
• Renewal: Usually the same price annually

Costs may vary slightly depending on state or city.

6. Can I Be Arrested or Fined for Having Tinted Windows Without a Permit?

Yes.
If your tint exceeds the legal limit and you don’t have a valid permit, you may face:

• Fines ranging from ₦5,000 to ₦50,000
• Vehicle impoundment
• Arrest or detention

Officers often cite violations under Section 119(1)(a) of the Federal Road Safety Corps Act, which prohibits “impeding the view of the driver.”

7. Are There Any Exceptions to the Tint Law?

Yes. The following vehicles may be exempted or allowed higher tint levels:

• Diplomatic vehicles
• VIP government vehicles
• Ambulances and emergency vehicles
• Vehicles used by top-level public officials (e.g., President, Governors)

Even so, these vehicles often have special plates or markings.

8. Can I Get a Tinted Permit Online?

Yes.
The FRSC now offers an e-permit system, allowing drivers to apply online via the official website or mobile app.

Steps:

1. Visit www.epermit.frsc.gov.ng
2. Create an account.
3. Select “Tinted Permit” under services.
4. Upload documents and make payment.
5. Schedule an inspection appointment.
6. Receive your digital or physical permit.

9. Do I Need to Renew My Tinted Permit Annually?

Yes.
Like most FRSC permits, the tinted permit must be renewed annually. Failure to renew may result in penalties similar to driving without one.

10. Is It Legal to Have Factory-Tinted Windows?

Yes, if factory tint meets legal VLT limits. Many modern cars come with slight factory tint on the rear windows. As long as it doesn’t exceed the allowable VLT, no permit is needed.

If you’re unsure, get it checked with a VLT meter at an FRSC checkpoint or authorized auto center.

11. How Can I Check If My Tint Is Legal?

You can:

• Use a VLT meter (available at car accessory shops or FRSC offices).
• Ask a certified mechanic or auto tinting shop.
• Test visibility: You should clearly see inside the car from outside during daylight.

12. Why Is Tinting Regulated in Nigeria?

The Nigerian government restricts excessive tinting for several reasons:

• Safety: Helps law enforcement identify occupants and prevent crime.
• Crime prevention: Criminals often use heavily tinted vehicles for kidnappings, armed robbery, etc.
• Road discipline: Ensures transparency and accountability on the road.

13. What Should I Do If I’m Stopped for Tinted Windows?

Stay calm and do the following:

1. Present your tinted permit if available.
2. Show your insurance, driver’s license, and registration.
3. Politely ask for the reason for the stop.
4. Avoid confrontation; pay any fine if necessary.
5. File a complaint if you believe you were unfairly treated.

14. Where Can I Legally Tint My Car in Nigeria?

There are many reputable auto shops across major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan that offer legal tinting services. Some even assist with applying for the tinted permit.

Make sure the shop uses quality films and complies with Nigerian standards.

Final Tips:

• Always know the legal limits before tinting your car.
• Carry your tinted permit with other essential documents.
• Consider getting a digital copy on your phone for easy access.
• Stay updated on changes in FRSC policies regarding tinting.

Conclusion

The era of confusion surrounding the Tinted Permit in Nigeria is officially over. The law is clear, the process is digital, and the path to compliance is straightforward.

A permit is mandatory for any vehicle with tinted glass, and the Nigeria Police Force has provided a modern, secure platform to obtain one.

There is no longer any reason to feel uncertain or risk the consequences of non-compliance.

By understanding the official stance of the “IGP on tinted permit,” familiarizing yourself with the new “Tinted permit portal,” and gathering the necessary “Tinted permit requirements,” you can confidently secure your legal right to use tinted windows.

This is about more than just a piece of paper or a digital file on your phone; it is about embracing your responsibility as a motorist and equipping yourself with the tools to drive with complete peace of mind. You can navigate the roads of Abuja, Lagos, and beyond, secure in the knowledge that you are fully compliant with the law.

Ready to drive with the ultimate confidence that comes from being 100% compliant? Don’t leave your peace of mind to chance.

Visit the official POSSAP portal today to begin your application. For expert guidance on securing your vehicle in every other way, from advanced tracking solutions to the best insurance coverage, contact 360 AutoSecure. Let us help you protect what moves you. Don’t just drive, drive secure!