Back in 2005, Georgia set the standard for car window tinting laws, and since then, it’s been crucial to comply with these regulations. You need to ensure that your car’s tint is within the acceptable darkness and reflectivity limits as specified by the law. While the process may seem daunting, all the information and documents to help you stay within the legal framework are readily available. However, there’s more to it than just the darkness and reflectivity levels. Georgia has additional rules and regulations regarding car window tinting that you must know to avoid costly fines. Thus, it’s essential to read up on all the guidelines below and stay informed.
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR) are two important things to keep in mind when considering auto window tinting in GA. In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Legal Window Tint Darkness in GA (VLT)
Window Tint Darkness or Visible light transmission (VLT) is a measure of the amount of light that passes through a film. It’s measured in percentages and can shift anywhere from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has typical legal limitations. Therefore, Georgia’s car window tinting laws are unique and may differ from those in other states, with varying levels of light transmission permitted depending on the type of vehicle. For instance, the regulations for passenger vehicles differ from those for multi-purpose vehicles. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Georgia’s specific tinting laws to avoid any potential violations. Read and understand the tinting regulations thoroughly, as even a slight deviation from the acceptable levels of light transmission can lead to legal consequences. Stay informed and comply with the regulations to enjoy a safe and hassle-free driving experience here.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Georgia:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 6-inch of your vehicle’s windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use maximum up to 32% tint darkness.
Back Side windows: You can use a maximum 32% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use a maximum 32% tint darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Georgia:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 6-inch of your vehicle’s windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 32% tint darkness for front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can use any tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any tint darkness for rear windows.
2. Legal Window Tint Reflection in GA (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. For car window tinting, the percentage of visible light reflection (VLR) is also crucial. The VLR can range from 0% to 100%, with a lower percentage showing less visible light being reflected and more sunlight being blocked. In Georgia, the law permits a specific percentage of window reflection when using a tint, making it vital to pay close attention to these guidelines. Not adhering to the VLR limits specified by the law can cause legal repercussions, so it’s essential to ensure that your car’s tint falls within the acceptable VLR percentage range. Stay informed about the VLR regulations in Georgia and avoid any potential violations to enjoy a safe and hassle-free driving experience.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Georgia:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the back side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Georgia:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the backside windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Other Georgia Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
The state of GA takes car window tinting seriously and has established numerous rules and regulations that drivers must follow. In addition to complying with the acceptable levels of darkness and glare on each window, there are other crucial regulations to be aware of as well. For example:
Side Mirrors: Georgia law does not have any specific regulations regarding the tinting of side mirrors on vehicles.
Restricted Colors: Upon learning about GA’s tint laws, people often wonder which colors are permitted for use on car windows. However, it’s important to note that the state of Georgia does not allow the use of red and amber color tint on vehicle windows.
Certificates: In GA, manufacturers of window film must certify their products for the state. It’s important to ensure that the dealer you are using is using certified film, as using uncertified film can cause fines and other legal consequences. Additionally, using certified film can help ensure that the film you are using meets the state’s standards for factors such as visibility and reflectivity, which can improve the safety and functionality of your vehicle.
Stickers: In GA, it is no longer necessary to have a sticker identifying legally tinted windows on your vehicle.
Medical Exceptions: GA state law permits medical exemptions for lower tint on all windows for individuals with certain clinical necessities. As required by the medical exemption law in Georgia, the driver of a vehicle with darker tinted windows must not only have the document issued by the window tint installer but also a clinical note from the specialist doctor providing details of the special needs.
Penalties For Non-Compliance: Violating GA’s window tint laws can result in criminal penalties. Specifically, the offense is classified as a misdemeanor, which can be punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 12 months of imprisonment. It’s important to be aware of and comply with the state’s tint laws to avoid these potential consequences.
Conclusion
The 2023 Georgia window tint law declares that the front windshield of a vehicle is not allowed to have window tinting applied to it. However, the windows on either side of the driver or in the back of the vehicle may have a light transmission restriction of at least 32% (plus or minus 3%), or a light reflectance of up to 20%. It is no longer necessary to have labels showing that the tinted windows meet state specifications.
Disclaimer
The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or as a substitute for the advice of an attorney. No user of this site, or any other person or entity that may have received this information, shall rely upon the information contained as creating an attorney-client relationship between such user and Car Glass Advisor. The rules and regulations pertaining to car window tint in Georgia may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.
Georgia Tint law references:
- Georgia Code section 40-8-73.1: Tinting of windows or windshields
- State of Georgia – Ammended Window Tint Laws