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Most vehicle owners, be it in Calgary or any other place, get their car windows tinted because it provides several advantages. Like UV protection, more privacy, and a stylish appearance. However, car window tinting in Calgary, Alberta, is subject to certain regulatory requirements and isn’t merely a matter of personal preference. You can avoid paying large fines and keep your car in compliance with the law by being aware of these regulations.
If you are planning to tint your vehicle’s windows for the first time, this blog provides a thorough overview of Calgary’s legal requirements for car window tinting.
Window tinting laws generally cater to driver and passenger comfort, safety, and visibility. It has got restrictions because excessively tinted windows can decrease visibility, particularly at night or during bad weather. This can cause accidents affecting the driver, the car, and other people as well. Furthermore, law enforcement officers must be able to see inside vehicles through the glass during security checks.
The Traffic Safety Act’s Vehicle Equipment Regulation in Alberta sets out the maximum amount of window tinting that is legally allowed. The following are important guidelines to be aware of:
Tinting the front windscreen is completely prohibited, with the exception of a clear, transparent film that can minimise glare or filter UV rays. Any tint on the windscreen reduces visibility, rendering it illegal. However, you can get a brow tint that blocks the sun glare but does not limit visibility.
It is not permitted to tint the front windows on the driver’s and passenger’s sides. For vehicles and law police to have the best view possible during investigations, this is a strict regulation. So the front windows need to be clear without any shades.
Window tinting is permissible on both the rear side and back seat windows. However, if the rear windscreen is tinted, the vehicle should have properly working dual side mirrors to provide rear visibility. Or if you have modern cars that have cameras on the rear side, they can work.
Mirrored or reflective films are not allowed since they can glare at other vehicles. This is important because Calgary’s summer sun and winter’s fresh snow reflection can be an issue.
If vehicle owners do not comply with Alberta’s tinting standards, you are bound to pay penalties, face vehicle inspections, or even get orders to remove the illegal tint. For example, if your front windows are tinted, a traffic stop could result in a ticket, and you may be obliged to change your car’s feature back to the compliance state.
This does not mean that you should not try tinting the car windows if you want. Just keep the following advice in mind to stay within the law if you’re thinking about tinting your car’s windows:
Consult a Professional: Reputable tinting firms in Calgary are aware of the provincial legislation and will advise you on legal solutions.
Check the Tint Percentage: Even if no exact percentage restriction is stated, make sure the degree of darkness in the rear windows meets realistic visibility standards.
Verify Product Details: To avoid breaching Alberta’s reflective material restrictions, use non-reflective films for tinting your car’s window.
Keep documentation: Also, vehicle window tinting can be a part of a medical exemption (for passengers or drivers who require UV protection). In this case, keep proper documentation with you in the car to show law enforcement if they stop you to interrogate.
The advantages of tinted windows, however, go beyond the tinting regulations. You can still experience the benefits of:
UV-ray protection
Cool vehicle interiors
Enhanced privacy
Just make sure you follow the regulations to avoid unnecessary hassles during drives.
Although getting your car windows tinted can greatly improve your car’s looks, it’s important to grasp the law to prevent fines. If you are in doubt, you can always get guidance from a professional tinting service like us, in Calgary. You can also refer to Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act. So take advantage of tinted windows and still stay within the law by following these guidelines.
To get your car windows tinted or remove an illegal tint, get in touch with Calgary Window Tinting to have a compliant and fashionable ride. So that you can stay informed, drive securely, and enjoy your trip!
