Legal tint limit in Ontario
4 minute read Published on Aug 29, 2024 by BrokerLink Communications
Window tinting is a common practice in Ontario and other provinces. However, Ontario window tint laws determine how dark of tint your windows can have and which ones you can’t tint. It’s important to understand the legal tint limit in Ontario to prevent costly fines and vehicle modifications. After all, if you paid to tint your windows, you wouldn’t want to go back and remove the tint for breaking the law. What’s legal and what’s not in Ontario? Find out more about this by reviewing Ontario window tint laws.
Tint darkness varies depending on where you live. However, in Ontario, you are subject to certain rules and regulations because it keeps you and other drivers on the road safe. That’s why you can’t make your tint darkness so black that no one can see into your vehicle. Are you thinking of tinting your windows in Ontario? If you are, you have to follow the legal tint darkness, which BrokerLink will get into this blog.
Ontario window tinting laws
The tint limit on a motor vehicle in Ontario will vary depending on the part you are tinting. Are tinted windows legal? In short, the answer is yes. However, the window tint limit will vary depending on the part of your vehicle you are planning on tinting. Here’s what you need to know about window tinting laws in Ontario:
Windshield
If you plan to tint your front window or windshield, you should be aware that aftermarket tinting is not allowed. This is the process of adding a window after you purchase a motor vehicle. However, you can add a 30% VLT(Visible Light Transmittance) on top of 7.5 centimetres. VLT is how much light is let into your vehicle.
So why can’t you tint your front windshield? The main reason is for the police to have a clear view of your vehicle. Here are some aspects that police take into account:
- Ensuring front-seat passengers are wearing seatbelts.
- Being able to see the driver isn’t texting while operating the motor vehicle.
- Preventing criminals from evading the law and conducting criminal activity.
- Allowing the driver to make eye contact with cyclists, pedestrians, and other drivers.
Front side windows
Tinted front side windows may be allowed under specific circumstances. The Ontario Highway Safety Act suggests windows to the left or right of the driver’s seat should not block the ability to see into the vehicle from the outside. Not having these windows tinted is recommended. However, you might be able to have 30% VLT.
Rear-side and back-side windows
There aren’t any restrictions on tinting your back or rear windows. You can tint them however you prefer. However, the left and right external rear view mirrors have to be visible to see the blind spots on your car.
Window tinting is legal in Ontario but has its limitations. With this in mind, you should be careful when tinting your windows. Getting certain vehicle modifications runs the risk of invalidating car insurance. That means you are driving your vehicle illegally without insurance and won’t have coverage if you get into an accident. Despite tinted windows having restrictions, getting a window tint has many benefits as well, which we will get into shortly.
Why do people get tinted windows
Window tinting is popular for a plethora of reasons. As long as the window tint you get is legal in Ontario, you can reap the many benefits window tinting has to offer. Here’s why many choose tinted windows in Ontario:
The look
Sometimes, tinting your windows can give your vehicle a more modern and sleek appearance. Even a subtle window tint can make an impact. Even though it might seem like a small thing to change, tinted windows can breathe life into your vehicle once again.
Safe from the sun
Whether you consistently carry passengers or don’t want to bother installing baby blinds for your little ones, tinted windows can block the sun’s harmful UV rays. Alongside putting on sunscreen, riding in a vehicle with tinted windows reduces your chances of developing skin cancer from constant sun exposure.
Clearer windows
This might sound contradictory, but getting your car windows tinted makes it easier to see. It’s a pain when you’re driving at night, and condensation starts forming on your rear window, making it hard to see behind you. However, tinting your car windows can help prevent windows from fogging up.
Protects your belongings
Although tinting your rear windows is the only thing that’s completely legal in Ontario, you should still consider it. Leaving your belongings in plain sight increases the chances of your car getting broken into. However, tinting your car windows while following Ontario tint laws can help you protect what’s rightfully yours.
In most cases, you cannot get an aftermarket window tint. After all, you have to comply with vehicle inspection regulations to avoid having an insurance claim denied if you get into an accident. However, as long as you follow the Ontario window tint laws, you can reap these benefits and many more.
Contact BrokerLink today!
Although front window tinting and aftermarket tinting are fairly restricted in Ontario, you can still tint your rear window(s). This will allow you to benefit from the things we mentioned earlier. That’s why our advice is to enjoy your tinted windows but take caution before making any massive vehicle modifications.
Whether you have tinted windows or not, you need car insurance. However, not all policies are mandatory in Ontario, and finding the right one for you can be overwhelming. That’s why the BrokerLink team offers all of these policies for your needs:
- Third-party liability coverage
- Accident benefits coverage
- Direct compensation - property damage coverage
- Uninsured automobile coverage
- Collision coverage
- Comprehensive coverage
- Accident forgiveness coverage
Choosing a car insurance policy for your vehicle with window tints doesn’t have to be stressful. All you need is a team that understands insurance. BrokerLink is well-connected with insurance providers across the country. Contact us today to find a policy that suits your budget and needs!