| Jurisdiction | Typical Law | Is it legal? | Common Penalty | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Windshield required; rear windows required only if side mirrors are missing. | No – unless you have two functional side mirrors (left + right). Even then, shattered glass hazard may apply. | $50–$250 fine + fix-it ticket. | | California (CVC 26710) | "No person shall drive... with defective safety glass." Shattered = defective. | No – regardless of mirrors. | $197 fine + proof of repair. | | UK (MOT Rules) | No specific rear window law, but "condition of glass" must not obscure vision. | No – Police can issue a "Vehicle Defect Rectification Notice." | 3 penalty points + £100 fine. | | EU (Germany StVZO) | Glass must not have sharp edges or reduce visibility. | No – Vehicle is considered unroadworthy. | €60 fine + point in Flensburg. | | Canada (各省不同) | HTA generally requires unobstructed view. Shattered glass is dangerous. | No – unless temporary covering is secure. | $110–$300 fine. |
Modern vehicles rely on glass for structural support. The rear window (along with the windshield) adds rigidity to the car’s frame. In the event of a rollover accident, a missing rear window compromises the roof's ability to stay intact, significantly increasing the risk of injury. can i drive with a shattered back window
If your back window is shattered right now : | Jurisdiction | Typical Law | Is it legal