What Car? Q&A - Can I drive legally without a rear-view

Q: Is it illegal to drive a car without a rear-view mirror on the windscreen?
Ian Maxwell, Beith

A: It is illegal to drive without a rear-view mirror in a normal passenger car (as opposed to a goods vehicle).

Regulation 33 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) regulations 1986 says that vehicles with a rear windscreen must have at least a rear-view mirror and an offside mirror, unless a rear-view mirror is not fitted by the manufacturer. In that case, you must have both a nearside and offside mirror.

The Highway Code stipulates that, before setting off, you should ensure that 'your mirrors and seat are adjusted correctly to ensure comfort, full control and maximum vision.' A missing mirror would therefore also appear to be hampering the driver's recommended 'maximum vision.'