Car Window Tint Laws: Everything You Need to Know
Car window tinting is a popular addition for many car owners because of the benefits it offers. While it can enhance the appearance of your vehicle and reduce glare, it can also protect you and your passengers from harmful UV rays and make the interior more comfortable.
However, various laws and regulations govern car window tinting in different jurisdictions, and it can be confusing to navigate. In this article, we will explore the window tint laws in Victoria and other parts of Australia to ensure that you are informed and stay on the right side of the law.
Victoria Window Tint Laws
Windshield Tinting Regulations
The windshield is the primary window of the car, and it plays a vital role in ensuring clear visibility for the driver. Therefore, to avoid any obstruction of the driver’s view, the windshield is subject to strict tinting regulations.
In Victoria, you are allowed to apply a tinted strip that covers the top of the windshield up to a maximum height of 65mm. However, the strip should not exceed 10% of the total area of the windshield.
Moreover, it should not interfere with the functioning of the windscreen wipers, and it should not be reflective.
Front Side Windows Regulations
The front side windows are subject to different VLT (Visible Light Transmission) requirements depending on whether they are factory-made or aftermarket windows. For factory-made front side windows, the VLT must be at least 35%, meaning that 35% of visible light must be able to penetrate the window.
However, for aftermarket window tinting, the VLT can be no less than 35% for the driver’s and front passenger’s windows. Meanwhile, for the rear passenger windows, the VLT can be as low as 20%.
Back Side Windows Regulations
Much like the front side windows, the back side windows must also adhere to specific VLT percentages. The VLT for the back side windows must not be less than 20%.
This requirement applies to both factory-made and aftermarket windows.
Rear Window Regulations
The rear window is another critical area for visibility in a vehicle, which is why it has specific tinting regulations. The VLT for the rear window should not be less than 20%, and the vehicle must have two rear-view mirrors that offer a clear view of at least 200 meters behind the car.
These mirrors must be functional, and they must not be obstructed by any tinting material.
Other Regulations
It is important to note that different jurisdictions may have additional regulations that apply to car window tinting. For instance, in Victoria, the reflectance of any window cannot exceed 10%.
Additionally, buses and other public transport vehicles have different VLT requirements compared to private cars. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific regulations for your location before applying window tints to your car.
Car Window Tint Laws in Australia
Overview of Regulations in Different States and Territories
While the window tint regulations in Victoria apply to that state specifically, each jurisdiction in Australia sets its own car window tint laws. Generally, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), New South Wales (NSW), and Victoria have similar rules.
However, Tasmania, Western Australia, South Australia, and Queensland have different regulations. For example, in Queensland, the front-side windows on both factory-made and aftermarket tints must have a minimum VLT of 35%, while the rear window and back side windows can have a VLT of no less than 20%.
Additional Information
Apart from varying regulations, other factors can impact the legality of car window tints. For instance, the Australian Design Rules (ADR) apply to all new cars and have specific requirements for window tinting.
The ADR stipulates that the driver’s view should not be impeded in any way, and the front and back screens must be clear. Therefore, factory-made window tints that comply with the ADRs are legal.
Failure to comply with the window tint laws can attract penalties such as fines and loss of demerit points. The demerit point system is used to promote safe driving and to discourage dangerous behaviors on the roads.
For example, in Victoria, the fine for illegal window tinting can be $305, and the loss of three demerit points. It is therefore essential to ensure that your car window tints comply with all the relevant regulations.
Conclusion
Car window tinting can be a great addition to your vehicle, but it is important to ensure that you are aware of the relevant laws and regulations. The primary goal of these regulations is to ensure road safety and visibility for all road users.
Therefore, it is vital to comply with all applicable laws and to consult with regulatory bodies where necessary. We hope that this article has provided you with sufficient information on car window tinting regulations in Victoria and Australia, and it has helped you make informed decisions regarding your car’s window tints.
Tint Darkness Percentage Examples
The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) refers to the amount of visible light that can pass through a window after it has been tinted. In accordance with the regulations, different windows on your car have different permissible tint darkness percentages.
The VLT is therefore crucial as it determines how dark a window tint can be legally. For instance, a front side window in Victoria must have at least 35% VLT, meaning 35% of visible light can penetrate the window glass, while a rear window can have a VLT as low as 20%.
It is essential to adhere to these percentages as they ensure safety, especially in low light situations.
Benefits of Tinting Car Windows
Tinting car windows can offer both aesthetic and functional benefits. Aesthetically, tinted windows can provide a sleek and stylish appearance to your car.
A window tint can enhance the exterior by adding a touch of sophistication and elegance. On the functional side, it can reduce glare, improving visibility when driving in sunny conditions.
Moreover, a window tint can protect you from harmful UV rays, which can reduce the risk of skin damage or skin cancer. Additionally, tinted windows can provide greater privacy, which can be valuable when traveling in busy or crowded areas.
How to Clean Tinted Windows
Cleaning tinted windows requires proper care to ensure that the tint foil remains intact and maintains its longevity. The following are some tips on how to clean your tinted windows without damaging the film:
1.
Use a soft cloth or microfiber towel to gently wipe the windows. Harsh or abrasive materials can scratch or damage the film.
2. Opt for ammonia-free glass cleaners that will not damage the tint film.
Many commercial glass cleaners contain ammonia, which can damage a window tint. 3.
Be cautious of using high-pressure car washes as they can be too harsh on the film. 4.
Avoid rolling down the windows shortly after applying a tint as it requires time to adhere to the glass.
Some other things to keep in mind while cleaning tinted windows are paying attention to the weather and avoiding cleaning during extreme temperatures.
Dirt, dust, or chemicals can cause damage to the tinted windows, so keeping them clean and well-maintained is essential.
Conclusion
Car window tinting is a popular addition to many cars today, and it offers several practical and aesthetic benefits. However, it is essential to remain informed about the laws and regulations surrounding car window tinting to avoid any legal repercussions.
These regulations, though seemingly restrictive, serve a vital purpose in preventing accidents and prioritizing road safety. With proper care and cleaning, tinted windows can be a valuable addition to your car that can serve you well for many years to come.
In conclusion, car window tinting laws and regulations are put in place to ensure safety and visibility on the roads. The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is a crucial factor in determining how dark a tint can be.
Additionally, tinted windows offer both aesthetic and functional benefits, such as preventing harmful UV rays. Proper cleaning practices are also essential to maintain the longevity of the tint foil.
Understanding these regulations and following proper care practices will ensure you remain on the right side of the law and can enjoy the benefits of tinted windows for a long time.