Window Tint Laws in Georgia

Window tint is a popular vehicle modification in Georgia, which makes sense considering how hot the state can get in the summer. However, there are strict legal limits on how dark your window tint can be that you should keep in mind. 

Going beyond what the law allows can result in a traffic citation and could also raise questions about your ability to see clearly in the event of a car accident. Continue reading this blog post to learn about where Georgia draws the line on window tint.

Georgia’s window tint laws are found in O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73.1. The law uses a measurement called visible light transmission (VLT), which refers to the percentage of light that passes through the window. A lower VLT percentage means a darker tint.

The legal limits in Georgia also differ depending on the type of vehicle and the window in question.

Tint Requirements Based on Vehicle Type

For sedans and passenger cars, the requirements are:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top six inches only
  • Front side windows: Must allow more than 32% of light in
  • Rear side windows: Must allow more than 32% of light in
  • Rear window: Must allow more than 32% of light in

Meanwhile, for SUVs and vans, the limits are as follows:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top six inches only
  • Front side windows: Must allow more than 32% of light in
  • Rear side windows: Any darkness level is permitted
  • Rear window: Any darkness level is permitted

Georgia law also restricts tint reflectiveness in that both sedans and SUVs are limited to tint that is no more than 20% reflective on any window. 

Are There Any Exceptions to Georgia’s Window Tint Laws?

Yes, Georgia provides a medical exemption for drivers who need a darker tint due to a qualifying health condition. If you have a medical need for additional UV protection, such as a condition like lupus, your doctor can provide documentation to support an exemption.

However, you must keep proof of your medical exemption in the vehicle at all times. If you are pulled over, law enforcement will ask to see it. Driving with tint that exceeds the legal limit without valid documentation may be treated as a violation.

How Can Window Tint Affect a Personal Injury Claim?

This is where tint laws intersect with personal injury law in a way many drivers do not consider. If you are involved in a car accident and your windows are tinted beyond the legal limit, the other side may argue that your visibility was impaired at the time of the crash.

Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence law under O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33. This means that your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any compensation at all. 

Illegal window tint alone may not determine the outcome, but it could become one factor that works against you during your case. 

Contact Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

Georgia’s window tint laws are specific, and the consequences of ignoring them go beyond a simple traffic ticket. Staying within the legal limits keeps you in compliance with state law and removes one potential issue from the table if you are ever involved in an accident.

If you’ve recently been involved in a crash and have any questions about what you should do next, a personal injury lawyer can help. Contact Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an Atlanta car accident attorney.

We proudly serve clients throughout Fulton County and the greater Atlanta metro area in Georgia, with offices in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville, Smyrna, Roswell, and Mableton.

Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
201 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW Suite 312, Atlanta, GA 30314
Open 24/7
(770) 900-9000

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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Sandy Springs
5555 Glenridge Con, Suite 975, Sandy Springs, GA 30342
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(678) 990-7024

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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Lawrenceville
265 Culver St S. Suite A. Lawrenceville, GA 30046
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(678) 626-5067 

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Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Mableton
5701 Mableton Pkwy SW Suite 108, Mableton, GA 30126
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(706) 480-5487

Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Smyrna
2400 Herodian Way Ste#220, Smyrna, GA 30080
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(678) 922-4497

Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Roswell
110 Mansell Cir #111, Roswell, GA 30075
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(678) 582-8466

About Robert M. Hammers Jr.

Robert M. Hammers, Jr. is the managing partner at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta. Committed to justice, he represents individuals harmed by negligence, focusing on personal injury litigation.

With over 50 jury trials and $100 million in verdicts and settlements, Rob is known for his strategic thinking and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients. He serves on the Executive Committee for the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice Board of Governors, and the Plaintiff Leadership Committee in complex multi-district and toxic tort litigations, where he advocates for injured individuals and shapes legal strategies.

Robert is also recognized on Justia for his excellence in personal injury law, further highlighting his reputation and commitment to client advocacy.

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About Robert M. Hammers Jr.