Safe Drive-Away Time After Windscreen Replacement
Safe Drive-Away Time (SDAT) is the waiting period after a bonded windscreen is installed before the adhesive has reached the manufacturer's specified drive-away strength. The term Minimum Drive-Away Time (MDAT) is also used.
What determines the time
SDAT is not a universal number for every replacement. It depends on the adhesive system and its instructions, the way the glass and adhesive bead were installed, and conditions such as temperature and humidity. The relevant time is the one documented by the installer for that vehicle and job, based on the adhesive manufacturer's requirements.
The vehicle should remain out of service until that period has elapsed. Driving earlier can load the bonded windscreen before the retention system has reached its specified release threshold.
What it does not prove
Reaching SDAT does not mean that the adhesive has completed its full cure. It also does not confirm that the installation is watertight, that cameras or other driver-assistance sensors have been calibrated, or that optical and electrical functions have passed their checks. Those are separate requirements after a windscreen replacement.
For the complete repair, verification, calibration, and safety context, see Automotive Glass Repair, Calibration, and Emergency Escape.