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Improper Window Tint in Georgia
If you have received a ticket for illegal window tint in Georgia, it is important to understand the specific laws about window tinting. Keep reading to learn more about Georgia's laws on illegal window tinting and how they may impact you if you are given a ticket for improper window tinting.
What is Improper Window Tint in Georgia?
In Georgia, it is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle:
- Which has material and glazing applied or affixed to the front windshield, which material and glazing when so applied or affixed reduce light transmission through the windshield; or
- Which has material and glazing applied or affixed to the rear windshield or the side or door windows, which material and glazing when so applied or affixed reduce light transmission through the windshield or window to less than 32 percent, plus or minus 3 percent, or increase light reflectance to more than 20 percent.
How Dark Can Your Windows Be?
Window tint is measured by “visible light transmission.” Visible light transmission refers to how much visible light can come through the vehicle’s window and the applied window tint film. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint.
Under Georgia law, you can only tint the top six inches of your windshield, and the tint must be non-reflective. The visible light transmission at the top six inches of the windshield must be 32% or higher. Also, the rear windshield and the door windows can be tinted, but they must allow more than 32% of light into the vehicle.
In addition to window tint darkness, there is window tint reflection. Window tint reflection reflects incoming light to prevent a vehicle from getting hot. The tint reflection on the rear windshield and the door windows must not reflect more than 20% of light.
Labels demonstrating that the vehicle’s tinted windows meet Georgia specifications are no longer required.
What About Colored Tint?
You can get colored tint. However, O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73.1 prohibits any tint that is red or amber.
Is Side Mirror Tinting Allowed?
Yes. Georgia law does not prohibit tinting of a vehicle’s side mirrors.
Penalties
A person that receives a ticket for illegal window tinting will be guilty of a misdemeanor, and the consequences can be severe. More specifically, consequences for a misdemeanor illegal window tinting ticket could include a fine of up to $1,000.00 or up to 12 months in prison.
Defenses: Medical Exemption
If you receive a ticket for illegal tinting, you may be able to defend against the ticket if you have a medical exemption to have darker tinting. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73.1, to receive a medical exemption you must apply to the Department of Public Safety stating your medical reasons for needing the window tinting. The application must include a written statement from a doctor stating that the darker window tinting is necessary and why it is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much is a tint violation ticket in Georgia?
A: A person can be fined up to $1,000.00 for a window tint violation.
Q: Can you be pulled over for window tint in Georgia?
A: A person can be pulled over for illegal window tinting in Georgia.
Q: What is the code for tinted windows in Georgia?
A: The code concerning window tinting in Georgia is O.C.G.A. § 40-8-73.1.
Why You Need a Lawyer for an Improper Window Tint Violation
Although an illegal window tinting ticket may not seem significant, it can have long-term consequences. Accumulating points on your driving record can lead to license suspensions, increased insurance rates, and limited driving privileges. Having a lawyer on your side can help lessen these consequences by exploring options to reduce or dismiss the charges against you.
Questions? Give me a call.
If you or your loved one receives a ticket for improper window tint, I am here to help. I have over a decade of experience representing people charged with traffic violations, and I will make sure you receive the best defense possible. If you need legal help, give me a call today!
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Kevin Fisher
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