Are Your Tinted Windows Breaking the Law?

Many drivers use tinted car windows for sunlight protection and increased privacy. While tinted windows are legal in Ontario, the Highway Traffic Act (HTA) defines specific limitations you must know.

According to HTA’s section 73(3), no person shall drive a vehicle if the windshield or windows to the left or right are sprayed with coloured or reflective materials that significantly obstruct the interior. This section means that officers must ensure they can still see through the inside of your car.

For the visible light transmission (VLT), the tint of your car’s front and side windows shouldn’t exceed 30%. Other jurisdictions even issue light meters to officers for enforcement.

Most jurisdictions, including Ontario, don’t regulate tint on rear side and back windows as long as your car has rearview mirrors on both sides.

These car window tinting laws are enforced for the following reasons:

Safety purposes – Officers must ensure there are no threats inside your car.
Road safety – Drivers should make eye contact with pedestrians and other motorists. Eye contact makes other people on the road feel safe to cross the highway because they’re assured that drivers see them.

Visibility in low light and bad weather – While deep tints may look aesthetic, officers, pedestrians, and other motorists can’t see through the inside, particularly in low light and bad weather.
Insurance claim approval – Some insurance companies don’t issue policies for cars with tinted windows. Some providers may even refuse your claims.

Following your jurisdiction’s vehicle window tinting regulations helps ensure road safety and compliance with the law.

If you require legal help to understand these regulations, don’t hesitate to call Diamond and Diamond for expert guidance today.