Georgia Window Tint Law – Legal Requirements & Compliance Overview
Georgia Window Tint Law – Legal Requirements & Compliance Overview (2025)
This page provides an informational overview of Georgia’s window tinting regulations. The governing statute is O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73.1, which defines visible light transmission (VLT) limits, reflectivity restrictions, medical exemptions, installation rules, and enforcement procedures. For film specifications and material guidance, visit LLumar Window Films.
Georgia Legal Window Tint Limits
Georgia distinguishes between Passenger Cars (sedans) and Multipurpose Vehicles (MPVs) such as SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans. The limits below reflect requirements set forth in O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73.1.
| Vehicle Type |
Window |
Legal Limit |
| Passenger Cars (Sedans) |
Front Side Windows |
Minimum 32% VLT; ≤ 20% reflectivity |
| Rear Side Windows |
Minimum 32% VLT; ≤ 20% reflectivity |
| Rear Window |
Minimum 32% VLT; ≤ 20% reflectivity |
| Windshield |
Non-reflective tint permitted only above the AS-1 line |
| MPVs (SUVs, Pickup Trucks, Vans) |
Front Side Windows |
Minimum 32% VLT; ≤ 20% reflectivity |
| Rear Side Windows |
Any VLT permitted; ≤ 20% reflectivity |
| Rear Window |
Any VLT permitted; ≤ 20% reflectivity |
| Windshield |
Non-reflective tint permitted only above the AS-1 line |
Georgia requires that installed film, when combined with factory glass, does not reduce light transmission below permitted levels for the applicable vehicle type.
Relevant Statute
The applicable Georgia window tint law is O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73.1. This statute governs minimum VLT requirements, reflectivity limits, exemptions, installation conditions, and enforcement provisions.
Medical Exemption Rules
Georgia permits medical exemptions for individuals whose conditions require reduced light exposure. Requirements include:
- Documentation from a licensed physician or optometrist establishing medical necessity.
- The exemption certificate must remain inside the vehicle at all times.
- Exempt vehicles may exceed standard VLT limits on side and rear windows.
- Windshield tint below the AS-1 line remains prohibited even with an exemption.
Penalties & Enforcement
Violations of Georgia window tint regulations may result in:
- Citation for operating or installing non-compliant tint.
- Requirement to remove unlawful window film.
- Fines determined by the court.
- Failure during inspection if tint does not meet statutory limits.
Enforcement officers may test VLT using certified light-transmission meters during traffic stops.
Visibility & Reflection Requirements
- Regulated windows must maintain at least 32% VLT unless medically exempt.
- Reflective tint may not exceed 20% reflectivity.
- Mirrored, metallic, or highly reflective films are not permitted.
- Windshield tint must be limited to the AS-1 band and may not obstruct driver visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the darkest legal tint allowed in Georgia?
Georgia requires a minimum of 32% visible light transmission (VLT) on regulated windows for passenger cars and on the front side windows of MPVs, unless medically exempt.
Are rear windows on SUVs, vans, and trucks subject to the 32% VLT limit?
No. MPVs may use any VLT on rear-side and rear windows. Only the front-door windows must meet 32% VLT.
Does Georgia law apply if my vehicle is registered in another state?
Yes. Any vehicle operated in Georgia is subject to Georgia's window tint regulations.
Are red, amber, mirrored, or metallic tints legal in Georgia?
No. Georgia prohibits red, amber, metallic, or mirrored tints, and limits reflectivity to no more than 20%.
Does Georgia allow a variance in VLT measurements?
A tolerance of approximately ±3% may be considered during enforcement, but windows must still meet legal limits.
How does Georgia enforce window tint laws?
Law enforcement uses certified light-transmission meters during traffic stops to verify VLT and reflectivity.
Are medical exemptions allowed for darker tint?
Yes. Georgia allows medical exemptions with proper documentation from a licensed medical provider.
Can tint be darker than 32% if installed by a dealer or manufacturer?
No. Tint must comply with Georgia law unless medically exempt.
Is reflective tint legal in Georgia?
Reflectivity may not exceed 20% on regulated windows.
Can law enforcement stop a vehicle solely for window tint?
Yes. Improper tint is a standalone violation.
What happens if my vehicle fails a tint test?
A citation may be issued, and the tint may need to be removed or replaced.
Does tint affect vehicle inspection or registration?
No. Tint is not currently inspected for compliance.
Does Georgia allow temporary or removable tint?
No. Temporary tint must meet the same legal standards unless covered by a medical exemption.
If you require clarification regarding Georgia tint regulations, you may contact (678) 504-6730 for assistance. For general tinting guidance, see Car Window Tinting Near Me.