Updated on 27-03-2025
Tinted glass is a popular addition to cars in India because it protects car interiors from external environmental factors. However, there are strict rules surrounding the use of tinted glass in vehicles in India, and violating them can result in fines and penalties.
In this article, we will essentially explore in detail the rules and regulations surrounding tinted glass in India, the fines and penalties for adding them to vehicles, and how tinted glasses can affect car insurance. We will also provide you with some of the popularly known tips on how to remove the tinted film from your car.
What are the Car Window Tinting Laws in India?
The government regulates the car window tinting laws in India under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) of 1989. The Rule 100 (2) states that-
- The visible light transmission or VLT for a car has to be under 70% for the front windshield and rear window.
- The VLT for side windows is limited to less than 50%.
In a landmark judgment of the Supreme Court of India that came in 2012, any material that covers car windows, irrespective of its visible light transmission levels, was prohibited.
Black Film in Car Window Penalty: What is the Fine for Tinted Glass in a Car?
One cannot use tinted glass as per Indian law, and a fine of Rs 100 is imposed for the first offence of using car glass film not approved by the RTO.
- Repeat offences lead to harsher consequences, and in 2019, 1.32 lakh cars were fined Rs 2.64 crores for violating this law.
- The RTO has laid down several rules and regulations that every law-abiding individual must actively follow to drive cars legally on Indian roads. Violating these rules (especially for repeat offences) can always potentially result in fines and penalties. Thus, it is vital to follow RTO rules to avoid penalties and maintain legal status while driving on Indian roads.
- Before using window tinting, it is essential to be aware of the applicable legalities. The RTO-approved sun control film for car prices may vary as different manufacturers and car décor shops offer various options in terms of quality. It would be wise to know the rules before spending money and getting caught in legal issues.
- Using high-quality sun control films that comply with the RTO’s rules can help reduce heat and glare and provide privacy without breaking any laws.
As a car owner, it is essential to ensure that you comply with the law to avoid being penalised and facing legal consequences while driving on Indian roads. Being informed and following the rules can help ensure a safe and hassle-free driving experience for everyone on the road.>
Why Are Tinted Windows Not Allowed in India?
- Manufacturers of sun shades for vehicles are urging the Indian Transport Ministry to lift the Supreme Court ban on tinted glasses in vehicles.
- In 2012, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India strictly banned the use of tinted films in vehicles due to several cases of crimes committed against women inside vehicles with tinted windows.
- Currently, only car windows that the manufacturers have tinted are allowed.
- While some popularly known manufacturers of tinted films have presented new technology that allows for greater visibility, Transport Ministry officials are not willing to compromise on their stand against tinted glasses
- The Transport Ministry will only allow such glasses for security purposes, subject to permission from the Home Ministry and the police.
- Poor visibility is another primary reason behind the ban on tinted glass for vehicles
Does Sun Film for Cars Impact Car Insurance?
Car owners often wonder whether having tinted windows can affect their car insurance premiums or claims. If the tinted film on the windows exceeds the limits specified by the RTO, car owners may face difficulties claiming motor insurance.
It is important to note that tinted windows do not affect the process of buying a comprehensive car insurance policy. However, when it comes to making claims, non-compliant tinted glasses can lead to claim denial.
Despite the previous directive of the Supreme Court and the traffic police's efforts to prevent the use of tinted vehicles, cars and buses with dark glasses are still visible. As a result, the Union Road Ministry has written to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) to prevent owners of vehicles with windows and windscreens darker than the permissible limit from claiming insurance. The aim is to crack down on vehicles with tinted windows to reduce crime.
Many believe that the regulation will be beneficial from a safety perspective, and vehicle owners will take the guidelines on tint more seriously. On the contrary, many others believe this move may not be useful because some car owners may remove the film of their vehicles after an accident to claim insurance.
Traffic police believe that the directive will make their job easier, but they need the infrastructure to check the exact percentage of light transmission of factory-fitted tint on vehicles.
How to Remove Tinted Film from Your Car?
There are various methods available to remove window tints from your car. The first method involves using a hairdryer or a heat gun to melt the glue, which makes it easier to peel the tint away. After melting the glue with the heat, you can use a clean towel to rub away the adhesive and then wash the windows with cleaner.
- Another method is to use a fabric steamer to melt the glue and remove the tint. This method also allows you to clean the upholstery of your car.
- The next method is the solar peel. You will require a spray bottle containing soapy water, a couple of black plastic garbage bags, another spray bottle of ammonia, and a tarp. You need to spray soapy water on the outside and quickly cover it with one of the bags. You can then spray ammonia on the inside of the window, cover it with the second bag, and allow it to bake in the sunlight for at least 20 minutes before removing the bags.
- The fourth method involves using old newspapers to remove the tint. You can wet the tint film with hot, soapy water and cover it with newspaper. One can proceed to meticulously remove the tint by utilising long strokes. If the film doesn't come off easily, you can soak it for another half hour.
- The final method is to peel the film away using a razor blade. After peeling the film, you need to remove the leftover glue.
What Are the Alternatives to Sun Films for Cars?
Detachable sun shades made of mesh are an affordable and safe option for blocking UV rays, light, and heat while reducing visibility from outside the car. They come with vacuum suction to attach to the glass but can be inconvenient to remove and put back when rolling down the windows.
Retractable drop shades are a more sophisticated option and roll up and down with the window glass, providing a premium feel to the cabin. Clear films are the best option for minimising light and heat, and 3M’s CR-70 is a good option as it allows complete visibility without being too dark. Indian law permits manufacturer-fitted films, and better than having nothing to protect the car’s interiors.
A new solution introduced in the Indian market is Dark Green UV Cut Glass. This reduces the thermal load inside the cabin and eliminates more than 82% of UV radiation while complying with Indian regulations. This is RTO-approved, making it a viable alternative to other options.
While several options are available in the market, it is always important to consider the cost, convenience, and legality before making a choice.
FAQs on Car Window Tinting in India
- Is car window tinting legal in India?
No, car window tinting is not legal in India and is regulated by certain visibility measures.
- Can I use transparent films for UV protection?
No, any film or coating available in the market is prohibited.
- Can I use curtains or blinds for my vehicle?
Curtains and blinds are allowed for cars only when it is not moving.
- Is car tinting allowed for medical reasons?
As of now, the Supreme Court has not granted any exemptions for car tinting based on medical reasons.
- How to check if my car complies with VLT rules?
You can consult the manufacturer or your car insurance policy provider or test VLT with equipment available at authorised centres.
Conclusion
Tinted glass is a popular addition to cars in India. However, strict regulations surround the usage of tinted glass in India, and violating them can result in fines and penalties. According to Indian laws, car windows must have minimum visibility for front, rear, and side windows, as well as windshields.
Any modifications that reduce visibility below this level are considered illegal. While some popularly known manufacturers of tinted films have presented new technology that allows for greater visibility, the Transport Ministry is determined to prioritise national security and women’s safety. As a result, the only car windows currently allowed to be tinted are those the manufacturers have tinted.
It is important to be aware of the applicable legalities before opting for window tinting. Violating the RTO's rules and regulations can land you in a legal tangle. Hence it is vital to follow these rules to maintain legal status while driving on Indian roads.
Furthermore, non-compliant tinted glasses can lead to claim denial in case of a car insurance policy claim, so it is important to ensure that you choose tinted windows in compliance with the law.