Window tints feel like a blessing on a sunny day.
But there is a lot of complication around laws and regulations of window tints. Some states allow it, while others prohibit its use.
If you’re wondering about window tint laws in Georgia, you have come to the right place. This article will discuss the Georgia window tint law and everything around it in detail.
If you live in Georgia, this article is for you.
These Georgia window tint laws, recently updated in 2023, were actually enacted not very long ago, in the year 2005.
What are Window Tint Laws? Why These Laws Exist?
Stipulations in law that underline the restrictions on various specifications of window tints are commonly referred to as window tint laws.
These laws determine if you can use window tints in a specific state or not. If yes, then what will be the allowable visible light transmission (VLT) percentage and reflectivity? The law also covers the penalties for violation and parties exempt from following it.
These laws exist for security and safety reasons. With increasing crime rates and car-jacking incidents, it is important for law enforcement personnel to be able to see the driver.
A dark tint enables criminals to get away without any identification. This is why all states have implemented window tint laws to ensure the safety of all citizens.
Additionally, a dark tint hinders the view of the driver. This is why the traffic administration authority ensures that drivers are able to see through glass properly.
What are the VLT% Restrictions in the State of Georgia?
Visible Light Transmission or VLT percentage is the percentage of the visible light that passes through the glass window.
A lower VLT% means a darker tint since it allows a lesser percentage of visible light to pass through it. Similarly, a higher VLT% means a lighter tint since it allows a higher percentage of visible light to pass through it.
Almost all states, including Georgia, have imposed restrictions on the VLT% of tints. You can divide VLT% restrictions into two main categories: passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
Let’s discuss both these categories in Georgia according to the Georgia Code section 40-8-73.1: Tinting of windows or windshields and the State of Georgia – Amended Window Tint Laws:
For Passenger Cars
For Front Side Windows: The Georgia window tint law defines that a minimum of 32% visible light should be passing through the tint film on the front side windows. (A variance of up to 3% is allowed, so you can go as dark as 29%.)
For Rear Side Windows: According to the Georgia window tint law, a minimum of 32% visible light should be passing through the tint film on the front side windows. (A variance of up to 3% is allowed, so you can go as dark as 29%.)
For Commercial and Multi-purpose Vehicles
For Front Side Windows: The Georgia window tint law defines that a minimum of 32% visible light should be passing through the tint film on the front side windows. (A variance of up to 3% is allowed, so you can go as dark as 29%.)
For Rear Side Windows: As far as the rear side windows go, there are no VLT% restrictions on commercial and multi-purpose vehicles.
Can You Use Tint on Windshields in Georgia?
Most states allow the application of tint film on the top 4-6 inches of the windshield.
Because the angle of incidence for sunlight is such that it falls right on top of the windshield, more than 70% of heat and UV rays enter at the top.
Now, let’s see what the Georgia tint law says about the use of window tint on windshields.
For Passenger Cars
Front Windshield: Window tint can only be applied on the top 6 inches of your front windshield for passenger cars in the State of Georgia.
Rear Windshield: The State of Georgia imposes restrictions on the VLT% of the rear windshield. The rear windshield of your passenger car must allow at least 32% of visible light through it.
For Commercial and Multi-purpose Vehicles
Front Windshield: You can only use window tint on the top 6 inches of your front windshield for commercial vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles in Georgia.
Rear Windshield: In the state of Georgia, you are allowed to apply a tint of any darkness on the rear windshield of your commercial and multi-purpose vehicles.
What are the Reflectivity Restrictions in Georgia?
Reflectivity is slightly different from visible light transmission percentage.
Where VLT% decides the amount of visible light passing through the glass film, reflectivity is a measure of light dispersed or reflected by a tint film.
A lower reflectivity reflects less light from the window glass. Conversely, high reflectivity reflects more light.
Let’s see if there are any reflectivity restrictions in Georgia.
Passenger Cars
For Front Side Window: According to the Georgia window tint law, the front windows should not reflect more than 20% of the visible light for passenger cars.
For Rear Side Windows: According to the Georgia window tint law, the rear windows should not reflect more than 20% of the visible light for passenger cars.
Commercial and Multi-purpose Vehicles
For Front Side Window: According to the Georgia window tint law, the front windows should not reflect more than 20% of the visible light for commercial and multi-purpose vehicles.
For Rear Side Windows: According to the Georgia window tint law, the rear windows should not reflect more than 20% of the visible light for commercial and multi-purpose vehicles.
Can You Use a Colored Window Tint in Georgia?
Yes, you can use a colored window tint in Georgia. However, the state of Georgia prohibits the use of red and amber-colored window tints. Other colors, such as blue, green, yellow, or gray, can be used for window tinting in Georgia.
But remember, the State of Georgia allows only certified tint film for sale and application. Always ensure that your tint film is certified by the authorities.
Is Anyone Exempt From the Georgia Tint Laws?
Yes, people with legitimate medical conditions are exempt from Georgia window tint laws. You can apply with the Georgia State Department for permission to use a darker tint by filling out this form: Georgia Window Tint Medical Exemption Form.
This only works on the recommendation of a licensed doctor. So, you can apply for relaxation in window laws only if you have a diagnosis of photosensitive allergy. Other than that, law enforcement personnel are also exempt from following the window tint laws.
Are there any Penalties for Not Complying With the Window Tinting Laws of Georgia?
Yes, violation of window tint laws is considered a misdemeanor in the state of Georgia. According to the state law of Georgia, the offender can be fined up to $1,000 or sentenced to prison for up to 12 months. You can see that window tint laws are a sensitive matter in the state of Georgia.
No matter if you are a permanent resident of the state of Georgia or a visitor, the window tint laws will apply to you. So, whenever crossing inter-state boundaries, make sure to check the window tint and other automotive laws.
Source: Georgia Department of Driver Services, TintingHub
