Car Window Tint Laws in Australia: A Frequently Asked Question
Tinting your car’s windscreen in Queensland can be tricky due to strict legal regulations. While there are benefits like UV protection and glare reduction, you must make sure you comply with local laws to avoid penalties. So, can you actually put a tint film on your front windscreen? Let’s find out.
Legal Restrictions in Queensland
In Queensland, the law permits a light window tint at the top of your windscreen (a sun strip on the top 10%), but the rest of the windshield cannot be tinted beyond a very light factory shade. Specifically, any aftermarket tinting must not reduce the visibility of light through the windscreen beyond what is already allowed by the manufacturer. The allowable tint percentage is also known as VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, or in other words, the amount of light that the film lets in. For side front windows, the VLT is typically 35%, but the windscreen is even more restricted.
This is due to safety concerns, as you must drive with clear visibility under all conditions, day and night. Before tinting car windows, explore window tint laws in Australia. Learn legal limits and practical tips for tinting your windscreen in each state & territory. For those driving into New South Wales, the laws are generally similar, so there’s little risk of needing different tints for interstate trips, but it’s always worth confirming the rules.
For other car windows:
Normally people just want to know what the darkest legal tint is in Australia and how those rules change state by state.
- Front side windows: 35% VLT
- Rear side windows and the rear window: 20% VLT is permitted
Practical Benefits of Windscreen Tinting
While complete windscreen tinting is illegal, having a sun strip at the top of your windscreen can offer some key benefits:
- Glare reduction: This strip helps reduce the intense brightness from the sun, making it easier, less glary and therefore safer for you to drive in very bright conditions, especially early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky.
- UV protection: High-quality tint films can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays, protecting your skin and preventing your car’s interior from fading or cracking.
- Comfort: Applying a window tint can help keep your car cooler in the summer, reducing reliance on air conditioning.
It’s worth noting that properly tinted windows won’t affect wiper operation as long as you maintain your blades so they don’t scratch or abrade your film (on the back window).
Penalties for Non-Compliance
If you choose to ignore the legal limits and go ahead with a full windscreen tint, you could face serious consequences. In Queensland, penalties for illegal tints can include hefty fines and even orders to remove the illegal tinting. It’s always best to stay within the legal limits, not only for your safety but to avoid unnecessary costs.
Comply with State and Territory Laws and Do Not Tint Your Windscreen
Tinting your windscreen beyond a legal sun strip isn’t allowed in Queensland, and strict regulations are in place to ensure road safety. If you tint your front windscreen beyond a level of tint on the top 10% of your front window, you could be risking fines, but also, risking clarity and driving safety.
Sticking to legal tint percentages for your front and side windows will provide the practical benefits of reduced glare and UV protection without the risk of penalties. If you’re ever in doubt, consult with a professional installer who is familiar with Queensland’s tinting regulations. Hint: Call us at 1300 Get Tint by Matt Bull on 0400 700 154 and we’ll set you straight!
