It is important that you research all window-tinting laws before making any modifications to your vehicle. Doing so not only saves time and hassle, but also can save you expensive tickets if you fail to comply with these regulations.
Georgia’s window tint laws, which were effective from 2015, are stringent and depend on the amount of light that can pass through the window, also known as VLT (Visibility Light Transmission). The darker the percentage of your tint is, the less light will be able to permeate. This law was created to ensure drivers maintain proper visibility while driving by having sufficient amounts of light entering their car windows at all times.
No more than 6 inches of a non-reflective tint is permitted above the top edge.
For front side windows, the darkest tint allowed is 32%, with a reflectivity rate of no more than 20%.
For back side windows, the darkest tint allowed is 32%, with a reflectivity rate of no more than 20%.
For a rear window, the darkest tint allowed is 32%.
No more than 6 inches of a non-reflective tint is permitted above the top edge.
For front side windows, the darkest tint allowed is 32%, with a reflectivity rate of no more than 20%.
For the back side windows, any darkness level is allowed, with a reflectivity rate of no more than 20%.
For a rear window, any darkness level is allowed.
In addition to these regulations, Red and Amber window tints are prohibited completely.
There are a few special exceptions that you should be aware of if you choose to apply tint to your vehicle in Georgia.
1. Vehicles transporting government officials or medical personnel on official business may have window films that allow up to 32% VLT (Visible Light Transmission). This applies to state and local government vehicles, as well as those registered with ambulance companies or medical transport services.
2. School buses with safety glass may use transparent window films up to 50% VLT. These must be installed in accordance with all other Georgia auto tint law requirements.
3. Any person who has a valid doctor’s prescription for medical reasons can use window films up to 32% VLT. The person must sign an affidavit affirming that they have a valid medical exemption and that the tint is being used for its intended purpose.
4. Any vehicle with windows or windshields made of safety glass may be tinted up to 50% VLT in accordance with all other Georgia auto tint law requirements.
If you do not follow any of the window tint rules mentioned above and a police officer pulls you over and finds the windows to be too dark, they may issue you a citation. Depending on the severity of the violation, the fine may range anywhere from $25 to $200 or even more in some cases.
Additionally, if your fines are not paid in full or if court appearances are missed, additional penalties like jail time or even license suspension may occur.
Having dark window tint can also affect your car insurance rate in Georgia since some insurers consider it a traffic violation. Your insurance may raise rates due to this infraction by as much as 40% depending on the company and your individual driving record. The increase premium could last for up to three years.
In addition to fines and insurance rate increases, you may get points on your driving record for having dark window tints in Georgia. These points remain on your license for up to five years and could result in additional penalties such as increased premium or even a suspended license if the total amount of points reaches 12.
The process of getting a special permit for darker tint in Georgia is relatively straightforward. After gathering the necessory documents and paperwork, you will need them to your local Department of Driving Services (DDS) office and submit your application. The DDS office will review your application and decide whether or not to grant you the permit.
If approved, you must then purchase special windo tinting film that meets State of Georgia regulations. Certified installers must apply the tint within 30 days of approval or else the permit will expire. Before leaving the DDS office, be sure to request a copy of your permit so that you can keep it with you all times while driving with dark tinted windows.
To sum up, Georgia’s tint laws are quite strict and need to be followed strictly. These rules apply to all types of vehicles, whether seda or SUV, and most drivers who want darker tints need to apply for a special permit. If not followed, you could face severe consequences like high fines and license points as well as other limitations. But if your are looking for darker shades of tint and are willing to spend some time filling our the right paperwork, you have good chances of getting the desired experience in your vehicle. However, at the end of the day, one must be aware that following too dark window tints can have serious consequences and must always be taken into account when selecting them! So keep your eyes on Georgia’s auto window tinting regulations in order to avoid any accident while driving.
If you are currently living in Georgia and need help with window tinting services, Precision Auto Styling offer top notch tint installation which comply with law – Get a free quote now for your desired window tint.
