Before you choose a tint shade, you need to know what is legal. Georgia's window tint rules are set by Georgia Code Section 40-8-73.1. Here is what they mean in plain English. This is general information, not legal advice.
The main rule: 32 percent VLT
VLT stands for visible light transmission, the percentage of light that passes through the glass and film together. In Georgia, side windows and the rear windshield on a passenger car must allow at least 32 percent of light through, plus or minus 3 percent.
Lower numbers are darker. A 5 percent "limo" tint is far too dark for a sedan's side windows in Georgia.
Reflectance: no more than 20 percent
Film cannot make your windows more than 20 percent reflective. That rules out mirror style films.
Windshield rules
Tint that reduces light transmission is not allowed on the front windshield. The exception is a transparent strip on the uppermost 6 inches of the windshield, as long as it is not red or amber.
SUVs, trucks and vans
The law treats multipurpose passenger vehicles differently. On SUVs, pickups and similar vehicles, the 32 percent limit applies to the windows to the left and right of the driver, while the rear side windows and rear windshield are exempt. That is why many SUVs come from the factory with darker rear glass.
Medical exemptions
According to the Georgia Department of Public Safety, people with medical conditions that require shielding from the sun can apply for an exemption. The application needs a written attestation from a licensed physician or optometrist.
Penalties
Driving with illegal tint is a misdemeanor in Georgia, and an installer who applies illegal tint can also be charged. That is why reputable shops will not install illegal film.
What this means for your car
- Sedans and coupes: a 35 percent film is a common legal choice for all side and rear windows.
- SUVs and trucks: 35 percent on the front doors, with darker options allowed behind the driver.
- Windshield: a top strip within the 6 inch limit.
The good news: you do not need dark film to get a cool cabin. Ceramic films block heat with infrared technology, not darkness. See ceramic tint vs standard film and tint pricing.
Serving Marietta and metro Atlanta
Crush Customs is located at 1092 W Atlanta St SE, Bldg 700, Marietta, GA 30060, and works with drivers from Marietta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, Acworth, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Vinings and across metro Atlanta. Shop hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Call (770) 989-1818 or email sales@crushcustoms.com.
Ready for tint? See film options and pricing, then pick your appointment online. Book window tint
Frequently asked questions
Is 20 percent tint legal in Georgia?
Not on a sedan's side or rear windows. On SUVs and trucks, darker film is allowed behind the driver, but the front side windows must still meet the 32 percent limit, plus or minus 3 percent.
Is 35 percent tint legal in Georgia?
Yes. 35 percent is within the 32 percent limit, which is why it is a popular choice.
Can I tint my windshield in Georgia?
Only a transparent strip on the top 6 inches, unless you have a medical exemption.
Do I need a sticker showing my tint is legal?
No. The DPS notes that labels showing compliance are no longer required.