Georgia Tint Laws
In 2005, Georgia lawmakers revised the window tint laws for clarity. The law now applies to vehicles registered in the state of Georgia as well as those registered in other states — and labels declaring that a vehicle's tinted windows are within regulations are no longer necessary.
Many people invest in tinted car windows for increased privacy, as they prevent people from looking into their vehicle. While some opt for minimal tinting, others go near-black.
Is Window Tint Legal in Georgia?
Yes, for the most part, any vehicle is allowed to have tinted windows in Georgia. However, there are caveats to this rule that you need to observe, and they differ by vehicle type.
The tint needs to fall within the legal guidelines for visible light transmission (VLT), which is the percentage of light that can filter through the tint. Tinted windows also need to be within the guidelines for tint reflection, which is the percentage of how reflective the tint can be.
VLT for Sedans
The rules for window tints on sedans vary, depending on the type of window. Here are the guidelines you must follow for each window of your sedan:
- Front passenger windows: Both passenger and driver windows must have a VLT of 32% or higher, meaning 32% of light should be able to enter the vehicle.
- Back passenger windows: All the windows in the back of the vehicle should also have a VLT of 32%.
- Rear window: The rear window should also be tinted enough to still allow 32% of light to enter the vehicle.
- Windshield: You should not have any tint on the windshield except on the top six inches. If the top six inches are tinted, the film used should be non-reflective.
The VLT percentage for sedans can be higher or lower by 3%, according to the law.
VLT for SUVs and Vans
Georgia tint laws for SUVs and Vans are different from those for sedans. Here are the guidelines you'll need to follow:
- Front passenger windows: The front windows should allow 32% of light in.
- Back passenger windows: There is no VLT limit, so the back passenger windows can be tinted as dark as desired.
- Rear window: Similar to the passenger windows in the back, the rear window can be as dark as desired.
- Windshield: The windshield cannot have any tinting on it, except for non-reflective tint — which cannot exceed a VLT of 32% — on the top six inches.
As with sedans, the VLT for tinted windows in SUVs and Vans can be higher or lower by 3%.
Tint Reflection
While window tint is legal in GA, the film used needs to be able to reflect just the right amount of light. Tint reflections help reduce the amount of glare and heat that penetrates a vehicle, but there is a limit to how reflective the tint can be. It's also important to make sure the film for tinted windows in Georgia is certified.
Other Considerations
Commercial vehicles, such as cargo trucks, cannot have tinted windows with a VLT lower than 70%, but GA tint laws have no restrictions for tinting side mirrors on any vehicle.
Stickers are also allowed so long as they do not interfere with the driver's line of vision. This means they can be put on the windshield but cannot be larger than a five-inch square on the driver's side or a seven-inch square on the passenger side.
What Is Not Legal?
Georgia window tint laws strictly prohibit window tinting in any shade of red or amber and no tint at all can be applied to the windshield, save for the top six inches.
Generally, it is illegal to apply or install anything on a vehicle that could potentially reduce the amount of light that penetrates the windows or increases how much light reflects off the windows.
Failing to abide by these rules can result in a misdemeanor charge.
Exceptions to GA Window Tint Laws
Every rule has an exception, and the Georgia tint laws are no different. Mainly, law enforcement vehicles are exempt from the window tint restrictions, as are any vehicles for government officials with a valid license plate.
Other exceptions include:
- Stickers: Any federal, county or state stickers can be applied anywhere, as can stickers that meet statutory regulations.
- Medical: Any individual or organization that requires tinted windows for medical reasons can apply for permission to have tinted windows. This includes a darker tint to keep out the sun or a tint on a windshield due to vision impairment. Proof of the medical need for window tinting is required.
- Sun visors: A tinted sun visor mounted on the front windshield is exempt from the window tint laws.
- Manufacturing tint: Windows or windshields that were tinted or darkened before arriving at the factory may be exempt from the tint laws as well.
Most multipurpose vehicles are only required to follow the Georgia tint laws for the windows on either side of the driver, as well as the windshield. These include:
- Limousines that are owned or rented publicly or privately
- School buses
- Public transportation
- Buses or vans used by religious organizations or any non-profit organization, regardless of whether they own or lease them
Also exempt are vehicles used by private detectives or private security businesses. However, these are only exempt from the Georgia window tint laws while on duty.
Find Style and Affordability at Rvinyl
If you're a DIY or restyling auto enthusiast, Rvinyl has all the tools you need. From window and headlight tints to a line of dash kits, our products come with a three-year warranty against cracking, peeling and fading. We want to give car enthusiasts the products they need to personalize the interiors and exteriors of their vehicles for a fraction of the cost of tint shops or detailers. We even offer product rebates for clients who submit photos of their DIY projects.
Browse our various tints online and get in touch if you have any questions — we're happy to help!
DISCLAIMER: This information is not provided by legal professionals and is intended only to complement, not replace or contradict, any legal advice or information provided by your state or legal professionals. The information covered in this resource does not necessarily reflect that of Rvinyl and/or its affiliates. If you have any questions, please contact your local state authorities and/or an attorney or other legal professional.