Legal Tint Percentage Limits for Georgia Cars
Georgia has specific window tint limits for both sedans and SUVs or vans. By law, the windshield can have a maximum tint of 32 percent. However, the driver and passenger side windows on a car can be tinted with 32 percent tint only if the vehicle has both outside mirrors and no stickers in each corner .
The back of the car – including the rear windshield – has no set limit as long as the vehicle comes with outside mirrors on the left and right side. SUV and vans are also allowed to have darker tint than cars on the side and back as long as the cars are sold with a factory tint. The tint cannot be darker than factory tint, which comes from the manufacturer.
Penalties for Tinting in Violation of the Law
Failing to comply with Georgia’s legal window tint percentage limits comes with a set of challenges that you may not be ready to face. First and foremost, you need to be aware that having tint above the legal limit is regarded as illegal. You should not expect to be given a warning or be allowed to peel some of the tint off of your windows. If a law enforcement officer pulls you over and determines that your tint is too dark, you will receive at minimum a citation. The first citation you receive may not require you to appear in court, but you still have some obligations. Law enforcement may allow you to drive home without further infringing on your day, but you are going to be expected to comply with their written obligations. You’ll likely be required to schedule a visit with your tint shop. There, a state-certified technician can also write a letter for you verifying compliance, which in most cases, you’ll be required to present to the judge. Fines may also apply. Naturally, the more you are caught driving around in violation for window tints, the steeper the fines will be. Failure to appear in court can lead to additional hassles for you. Should you show up in court for your scheduled tint violation, the judge will likely grant you permission to drive legally once again by changing the tint of your windows in compliance with Georgia’s laws. However, you should be aware that a second tint offense will come with a heavier consequence. The judge may give you a harsher penalty like 40 hours community service, a $1,000 fine, and/or a jail sentence of up to 12 months. Simply put, once you’ve been caught driving with tinted windows that violate the law, consider yourself on the state’s radar from now on. After the 40 hours of community service and/or fine, your next infraction will almost certainly involve a harsher suspension of your driver’s license.
How to Determine Window Tint Darkness
The methods for measuring window tint percentages involve standard radiation measurements and the use of light meters. In Georgia, the most common tool is either the LIghtLab or a LTI 20/20.
LIghtLab
The LIghtLab by VIOLC also known as the VIOLC Light Meter as well as the LIghtLab by Innovative Inspection Technologies is one of the most precised Light Meters on the market today and is used exclusively by State Troopers and approved inspectors for citing illegal tinted windows in Georgia.
LTI 20/20
This method is also commonly used in Greater Atlanta, Cobb and Fulton Counties and is often used by Auto Emissions Testing in Metro Atlanta. The LTI 20/20 has been in use by law enforcement community since 1980.
They are all accurate, easy to get and relatively inexpensive. They are all handheld, battery powered and fit in your glove box. They have two measurement protocols; light transmittance and, if you have more than one window, infrared solar energy or I.R.S.E. The I.R.S.E. test measures the temperature of the window or the transmittance of solar energy. The I.R.S.E. test system includes a variable shading film (5-75%) that is automatically applied over the window under test. When the test begins the I.R.S.E receives constant RF signals, which simulate sunlight. Because there is no sunlight, it allows for a more accurate measurement. A S.G.TL rating combined with I.R.S.E. reported results for each window, it is possible to accurately determine the percentage that each window is tinted.
Legal Exceptions to Georgia Tint Law
On occasion, a person might need a medical exemption for window tinting. In Georgia, the Crimson Foundation is able to grant medical exceptions. An individual can call them (706) 321-7449 ahead of time and ask if they have a medical condition that would allow them to tint their windows, and if so, will send a representative to the direct place of the tinting, United Tinting, Inc. Those exceptions are granted on a case-by-case basis .
It can take up to two hours for a verification, so it is recommended that the appointment be set up two hours in advance to allow that time.
The state record will show up after you receive the Georgia Certificate of Exemption. If for any reason you do not receive a Georgia Certificate of Exemption or get it on file with the Georgia Department of Public Safety for your county, please contact the Crimson Foundation concerning what the Georgia Department of Public Safety will accept as adequate proof.
How Georgia Tint Laws Compare with Surrounding States
Georgia’s tint laws are especially important to be aware of when crossing state lines, as many residents travel to Tennessee, Florida, Alabama, and South Carolina relatively often. For example, those who work and live in the state may choose to drive home to see friends and family on the weekends. Here are the tint laws for Georgia and its neighboring states.
- Alabama allows for a maximum of 35 percent darkness or VLT for sedans, vans, and SUVs. Those who wish to dip below this amount must obtain a medical exemption, which is rarely given.
- Tennessee allows automotive windows to be tinted to 35 percent darkness, which means that only 35 percent of the visible light can reach homeowners. Heavier tinting is permitted on rear and side windows because officials categorize these windows as non-essential. Furthermore, those receiving a medical exemption for overlaying a tint of any darkness can obtain an exemption sticker for their vehicle.
- South Carolina, like Georgia, allows for a maximum of 32 percent darkness on the front windshield and a maximum of 35 percent of darkness on the rear and side windows. Because this state also thinks that there is a low risk of Africanized honeybees in the region, it makes no exception for beekeepers while they are driving. In addition, owners do not need to have their tint verified by the police or a medical professional.
- Florida allows all windows to be tinted to a maximum of 28 percent. Some have argued that the tint laws in this state are too strict (especially when compared to other states), but others think that they are appropriate because of the high amount of sun exposure that the Florida population frequently receives.
- Tennessee and Georgia are similar in that both states have no exemption for beekeepers, and some who appointed by the governor must approve exceptions for those receiving medical exemptions.
A Guide to Selecting Legal Tint in Georgia
When selecting legal window tint, it is important to consider factors such as visibility, heat reduction, and privacy. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice: Choose A Shade That Provides Sufficient Visibility: For the best results, it is recommended to choose a tint shade that allows at least 32% to 38% visible light transmittance on all windows (with the exception of the front windshield). This shade will allow for enough visibility when driving at night or in inclement weather conditions. Choose A Shade That Reduces Glare: Glare occurs when light is reflected off an object and into your eyes, making it difficult to see properly. A darker tint shade will help reduce glare, increasing visibility and making your driving experience safer. Choose A Shade That Offers Heat Reduction: Legal tint shades block out a portion of the sun’s infrared (heat) rays. While there are many different shades available , those in the 32%-38% range offer the best balance between visibility and heat reduction. This makes them the most cost effective option available. Choose A Shade That Enhances Privacy: The primary reason for choosing decorative and blacked out tint shades is privacy. Both shades offer enhanced privacy, and will not detract from the appearance of your vehicle. For an even greater level of privacy, choose a window film that reflects incoming light, such as those with metallic properties. Choose Professional Installation: Installing window film on your own can be difficult and time consuming. it’s recommended to have a professional install the tint for you. Note that tinted windows must be free of bubbles and discoloration for the tint to be legal. Check with local tint shops for pricing and services offered in your area.