Window tinting on limousines and other vehicles is a popular modification, but it’s essential to ensure your tint complies with the law. This article explains Georgia’s window tint law, outlining the legal limits and exceptions.
Georgia Window Tint Regulations: What’s Allowed?
Georgia law dictates specific restrictions on window tinting to ensure driver visibility and safety. Violating these regulations can result in a misdemeanor charge. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Light Transmission and Reflectance
- Windshield: No tinting allowed except for a 5″ square in the lower left corner and a 7″ square in the lower right corner. A transparent, non-red, non-amber strip up to 6″ wide is permitted at the top. Sun visors are also allowed.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 32% of light to pass through (plus or minus 3%). Light reflectance cannot exceed 20%.
- Back Side Windows and Rear Window: Generally, the same 32% light transmission rule applies. However, there are exceptions for certain vehicle types, which we’ll discuss below.
Exceptions to the Rule
Georgia law provides several exceptions to these window tint restrictions:
- Pre-Factory Tinting: Vehicles with factory-installed tint that doesn’t meet the current requirements are exempt.
- Federally Required Stickers: Placement of any required federal, state, or county stickers is permitted.
- Passenger Common Carrier Signs: Signs meeting specific statutory requirements are allowed on the front windshield.
- Specific Vehicle Types: The 32% light transmission rule for rear side and back windows does not apply to:
- Multipurpose passenger vehicles
- School buses
- Public transportation buses
- Non-profit buses
- Limousines
- Law Enforcement Vehicles: Exempt from tinting restrictions.
- Medical Exemptions: The Department of Public Safety (DPS) can issue permits for darker tints to individuals with specific medical conditions requiring reduced light exposure. This requires documentation and approval.
Limo Tint Legality in Georgia
While the general rule applies to limousines, the exception for this vehicle type allows for darker tint on the rear side windows and back window. This recognizes the privacy and comfort needs often associated with limousine service. However, front side windows must still adhere to the 32% light transmission minimum.
Ensuring Compliance
It’s crucial to have your window tint professionally installed by a reputable shop familiar with Georgia law. Installers violating the tint law can also face misdemeanor charges. Remember, although labels indicating compliance were once required, they are no longer necessary.
Staying Informed
Georgia’s window tint laws are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official Georgia code and consult with a qualified professional before tinting your vehicle’s windows.
