Window Tinting Laws for Your Car in Queensland
Queensland window tint laws do not allow tint on the front windshield | Front side windows may have 35% VLT tint | All windows behind driver may have 20% VLT.
Window tint laws, for a vehicle, in Queensland (QLD) are very precise and easy to comprehend and do not leave much room for interpretation. Front windshield tint is allowed only on top 10% of the window, or above the highest point swept by windshield wipers. There are no colour restrictions. This does not prohibit installing clear and transparent frost glazing or UV shields. Front side windows may have up to 35% VLT tint. This includes windows in front or immediate left or right of the driver seat. All windows behind driver seat including back side windows and rear windshield may be tinted with at most 20% VLT.
Queensland Window Tint FAQ
What is VLT?
VLT stands for visible light transmission and determines how much light is blocked from passing through. For example 35% VLT would block 65% of light from coming through.
Is reflective tint allowed in Queensland?
Queensland tint laws do not permit using tint film with more than 10% reflectance. No distortion or bubbling is permitted either. For safety of other drivers we strongly suggest avoiding using any tint film with higher than normal glare.
Which vehicles can have rear windows tinted in Queensland?
Vehicles designed to carry goods, vehicle for which their construction doesn’t allow it, or vehicles in which there is no need to see through windows behind driver while driving may have any tint darkness on all windows behind driver. This includes trucks, vans, hearses, limousines, buses, utility or other similar vehicles. It does not include SUVs.
Can windows inside vehicles be tinted?
According to Queensland tint laws, any windows in the interior of the vehicle must legally have over 70% VLT if factory made, or over 35% VLT with aftermarket tinting.
Does window tint in Queensland require certificates or stickers?
There are no special certificate or sticker requirements for tint film in Queensland state.
Are side mirrors required in Queensland?
Side rear view mirrors (also called side wings) are required if any window behind driver is tinted below 35% VLT.

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Sources & References
You can verify all information about legal Queensland window tinting on the following:
- Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads – Minor Modifications (page 5) https://australiatintlaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Queensland-Window-Tint-Laws.pdf
- Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads – Vehicle standards guidelines – Installation of non-standard tinting materials on Light Vehicles https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Safety/Vehicle-standards-and-modifications/Vehicle-standards/Vehicle-standards-guidelines
Fines For Illegal Tint: Your Guide to Queensland’s Window Tinting Laws
Queensland drivers, listen up! Illegal Tint is cause for concern. Cruising with a sleek, tinted ride is undeniably cool, but navigating Queensland’s window tinting laws can feel like driving through a legal maze. Fear not, because Only Tints, your Gold Coast window tinting experts, are here to shed light on the rules and keep you cruising fine-free.
First things first, understand the legalities. The golden rule: all window tinting must comply with Queensland’s Road Transport Regulations 2017. That means, for the front windscreen, the tint can’t extend below the wiper blade sweep line or cover more than 10% of the glass (whichever is lower). The front driver and passenger side windows also have a minimum light transmittance requirement of 35% (T35).
Examples of Fines Issued for Illegal Window Tinting in Qld
A hefty $332 fine awaits those caught with illegal tint. Remember the Ipswich driver who copped this penalty for a 27% light transmittance? Don’t let that be you!
Then there was this driver who was fined by the Queensland Police Service for having illegal window tint, and also provides information about the legal requirements for window tinting in Queensland. Some of the important points are that the tint on the windscreen must not extend below the wiper blades, and the tint on the front windows must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.
But how do you avoid such a fate? Simple: choose a reputable tinting service like Only Tints. We’re the Gold Coast’s window tinting aficionados, using only high-quality, compliant films and adhering strictly to Queensland regulations. We even provide certificates of compliance for your peace of mind.
Here’s an extra tip: don’t rely on DIY kits or dodgy operators. Not only are you risking a fine, but poor-quality tint can affect visibility, putting you and others on the road at risk. Remember, safety first, style second!
So, Gold Coast cruisers, keep your rides cool and legal with Only Tints. We’ll ensure your windows turn heads, not cop fines. Cruise on over for a free quote and let us make your car the envy of the road, the legal way.
Stay Informed: The Window Tinting Laws According to RACQ
Here is a breakdown of the Qld window tinting laws according to RACQ.
Tinting your car windows can add a touch of style and privacy, but in Queensland, there are strict rules about how dark they can be. This RACQ article outlines the regulations you need to know to avoid fines and keep your driving safe.
The nitty-gritty:
- Windscreen: No tinting is allowed below the wiper blade sweep line or on the top 10% of the glass, whichever is lower. A narrow tint strip is permitted along the top.
- Front driver and passenger side windows: These must allow at least 35% of light to pass through (known as VLT or Visible Light Transmission).
- Rear windows: You have more freedom here, but the maximum VLT is still 35%.
- Other restrictions: Reflective tinting is generally not allowed, and the film must not interfere with any driver-aid systems.
Why the rules?
Window tinting can limit your visibility, especially at night. The Queensland laws are designed to ensure driver safety and prevent accidents.
Staying compliant:
- Choose a reputable tinting shop that uses quality films and adheres to the regulations. They can provide a certificate of compliance for your records.
- Check your windows yourself using a VLT meter. These are readily available online or at some auto parts stores.
The bottom line
Getting your car windows tinted can be a great way to enhance its look and protect yourself from the sun. Just make sure you follow the Queensland laws to avoid fines and stay safe on the road.
Additional tips
- Consider the practicalities of tinting. Darker tints can make it harder to see at night and may not be suitable for all driving conditions.
- Be aware that some medical conditions may require you to have untinted windows for visibility reasons.