Understanding Ontario
Published on August 12, 2025 by Toronto Tint Studio

For many Toronto car owners, window tinting is a popular aesthetic and functional upgrade. However, it's crucial to understand that not all tint levels are legal in Ontario. Driving with non-compliant window tint can lead to fines and inconvenience. At Toronto Tint Studio, we prioritize both style and legality, ensuring your vehicle meets all provincial regulations.
The Basics of Ontario's Window Tint Laws
The primary regulation governing window tint in Ontario is found in the Highway Traffic Act. The key points to remember are:
- Front Side Windows: These are the windows beside the driver and front passenger. They must have a minimum of 70% Visible Light Transmission (VLT). This means that at least 70% of outside light must be able to pass through the window. Any tint that makes these windows darker than 70% VLT is illegal.
- Rear Side Windows and Rear Window: There are no restrictions on the darkness of tint for the windows behind the front seats, including the rear side windows and the back window. You can tint these as dark as you prefer.
- Windshield: It is illegal to apply any tint to the windshield below the AS-1 line (a mark usually found on the glass) or more than 70mm from the top of the windshield, whichever is greater. The entire windshield must allow at least 70% VLT.
Why These Laws Exist
Window tint laws are primarily in place for safety reasons:
- Visibility for Drivers: Ensuring drivers have clear visibility, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions.
- Visibility for Law Enforcement: Allowing police officers to see into a vehicle for their safety during traffic stops.
Consequences of Illegal Tint
If your vehicle's window tint does not comply with Ontario's regulations, you could face:
- Fines: You may be issued a ticket with a monetary fine.
- Order to Remove Tint: You could be ordered to remove the illegal tint, which incurs additional costs and inconvenience.
- Insurance Issues: In some cases, non-compliant tint could potentially affect insurance claims if it's deemed to have contributed to an accident.
How Toronto Tint Studio Ensures Compliance
At Toronto Tint Studio, our certified technicians are experts in Ontario's tint laws. We use professional VLT meters to measure tint levels accurately and advise you on the best options that meet your aesthetic desires while remaining fully legal. We offer a range of high-quality films, including ceramic window tint and carbon film, that provide excellent performance within legal limits.
Don't risk fines or compromise safety. Trust Toronto Tint Studio for legal, high-quality, and professionally installed car window tinting. Contact us today to discuss your tinting needs!