Everything You Need to Know About Georgia’s Window Tint Laws

Georgia residents and non-residents alike must follow the state’s window tint laws. Georgia law generally prohibits tint on the front windshields of cars. Tinting on side or rear windows must let at least 32 percent of the light through, plus or minus 3 percent. Reflective materials cannot increase light reflectance by more than 20 percent. These window tint laws in Georgia aim to let motorists limit the effect of glare without risking visibility and safety.

Which Windows on My Car Can Be Tinted?

You can put window tint on your car’s rear or side windows, though you must still follow certain restrictions.

You can’t legally put tint on the front windshield of your car, as it could make it too dark to see cars, pedestrians, cyclists, or other potential hazards in your path. However, there are some small modifications you can make to your front windshield, such as installing:

• Sun visors for the front windshields, as long as they don’t touch the actual glass
• Small patches of tint in the lower-left and lower-right corners of the front windshields, as long as the tint is no bigger than a 5-inch or 7-inch square (respectively)
• A transparent item on the uppermost 6 inches of the front windshield, as long as the item is not amber or red
• Any Passenger Common Carrier signs that meet statutory specifications
• Any stickers required by federal, state, or county governments

What Is the Darkest Legal Tint Allowed in Georgia?

In general, the limits on window tint in Georgia don’t refer to a particular shade or color. Instead, the limiting factor is how much light the window tint allows or reflects. Any window tint you put on your car’s rear or side windows must allow at least 32 percent of the light through, plus or minus 3 percent. So, as long as your tint allows at least 29 percent of the light through in all circumstances, you’re likely following the law.

On the other hand, reflective window tint cannot increase the amount of reflected light by more than 20 percent. This restriction helps protect other drivers from being blinded by the glare of light reflecting off certain kinds of window tint.

What Colors Are Allowed for Window Tinting?

Broadly speaking, the color you choose for your window tint doesn’t matter. While most people prefer black for their window tint, the only colors you are specifically banned from using are red and amber.

Do I Need a Decal on My Windows Showing They Meet Regulations?

Georgia’s older laws on window tint required drivers to have stickers saying their tint met state requirements. However, that requirement is no longer in effect. All that matters is whether your tint meets the restrictions under Georgia law.

Are There Any Exceptions to Georgia’s Windows Tint Law?

Georgia has looser window tint rules for non-passenger vehicles. The following types of vehicles are not subject to the usual limits on window tinting:

• Law enforcement vehicles
• School buses
• Public transportation buses
• Nonprofit buses
• Limousines
• Multipurpose passenger vehicles

There are also exceptions for windows that receive their tint before factory delivery and any tinting otherwise allowed under federal law.

Can I Get an Exemption for Window Tinting?

If you or someone who regularly rides with you has a medical condition that requires protection from the sun’s rays or bright lights, you can apply for an exemption to the state’s window tint laws. Here’s how it works and what you need to do. If you get into a crash in Athens, contact our Athens car accident attorney today.

 Steps to Get an Exemption

• You’ll start by getting the official form called the Application for Exemption to the Window Tint Law.
• Know your car’s details like the year it was made, the make, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and your license plate number.
• You’ll need a signed note from your physician or optometrist explaining why you need tinted windows for medical reasons.
• Get your money order, certified check, or cashier’s check ready for the application fee.

 Apply for an Exemption

• Fill out the exemption form with all the details mentioned above.
• Submit this form along with your payment to the Department of Public Safety. Make sure to follow the instructions on the form closely.

 Next Steps

• After the state reviews and approves your application, you’ll get a copy in the mail. Keep this document safe, as it’s your proof of exemption.
• Always keep a copy of the approved application in the vehicle it applies to. This is important because if you’re ever asked about your window tint, you can show this document.

Keep in mind that his exemption isn’t forever. You need to reapply every four years to keep it valid. Mark your calendar or set a reminder to renew your exemption on time.

Are There Penalties for Violating the Window Tint Law?

Violating Georgia’s window tint laws is a misdemeanor. The maximum penalties for a conviction include a $1,000 fine and up to 12 months in jail.

There may be additional consequences beyond these criminal penalties. Because excessive tinting or reflective applications can impact visibility, people who break the law have a higher risk of causing an accident – and if they do, anyone they injure could hold them financially liable through a personal injury claim. If you suffered injuries in a crash because the other driver had tinted windows and couldn’t see you, talk to a Georgia car accident attorney immediately.

Contact a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer

The team at R. Alan Cleveland, LLC fiercely protects the rights of those injured in car accidents. If you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by a driver with unsafe window tint levels, we can help you seek compensation for your injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Call us today or complete our contact form for a free consultation with a Georgia car accident lawyer.