Zone A
A central 290mm-wide area in the swept part of the windscreen.
MOT visibility and safe driving
Cracked windscreens, MOTs and visibility.
Damage is assessed by its position, size and effect on the driver’s view—not simply by whether a crack exists.
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Practical guidance
What the official MOT guidance says.
The current DVSA MOT inspection manual identifies damage over 10mm in Zone A and over 40mm in the remainder of the swept area for inspection, while making clear that rejection for damage is justified when the driver’s view of the road is significantly affected.
Zone A is the 290mm-wide area centred on the steering wheel within the swept area. A windscreen may also be considered dangerous when its condition seriously affects visibility. If damage is spreading, obstructs the view or leaves the glass insecure, avoid unnecessary driving and arrange professional advice.
- ✓ Do not rely on an MOT date alone
- ✓ Check whether vision is affected
- ✓ Avoid driving if the glass seems insecure
- ✓ Arrange assessment promptly
What to consider
Clear answers before work begins.
Every vehicle and piece of glass is different. These are the main points we check when planning the job.
Swept area
Damage elsewhere in the wiper-swept area is assessed against visibility and condition criteria.
Vehicle safety
The driver remains responsible for ensuring the vehicle is safe and the view is clear.
Frequently asked questions
Useful things to know.
Will any crack automatically fail an MOT?
No. The official assessment considers position, dimensions, condition and whether the driver’s view is significantly affected.
Where can I read the official rules?
Use the current DVSA MOT inspection manual on GOV.UK. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Official guidance: GOV.UK MOT inspection manual – visibility. This page gives general information and is not legal advice.
Ready for an assessment?
Send the registration, postcode and photos.
We’ll confirm coverage and the next practical step.