What Are the Tinted Windows Rules in Ontario?

The rules in Ontario differ depending on which window you are tinting.

VLT is a percentage that describes how much light passes through a window. A higher percentage means more light gets through and the tint is lighter. A lower percentage means the tint is darker. Ontario requires front side windows to have at least 70% VLT, meaning only 30% of light can be blocked. Most legal tints appear very light; significant darkening on front windows is generally not legal.

Many vehicles come from the factory with a light tint on rear windows. This is generally within legal limits. Aftermarket tint applied by a shop or peel-and-stick film is where violations typically occur. Shops are required to follow Ontario's rules, but not all do. If you are buying a used vehicle, it is worth measuring the VLT on front windows to ensure any tint applied by a previous owner is compliant.

Police can stop a vehicle if they believe the tint is too dark on the front windows. Officers carry light-measuring tools to check VLT on site. A vehicle with non-compliant tint can be declared unfit to be driven on the road, which results in a mandatory repair order. The fine for non-compliant tint varies but can exceed $200, and the tint must be removed before the vehicle can be driven again.

Drivers with documented medical conditions that require protection from sunlight (such as certain skin conditions or medication-related photosensitivity) may apply for a medical exemption permitting darker front window tint. This exemption requires documentation from a licensed physician and must be carried in the vehicle. The exemption is not automatic and does not apply to the windshield.