Alberta Window Tint Laws: What’s Legal in 2025

Before you darken your windows, it’s important to understand Alberta window tint laws, what’s allowed and how car tint regulations in Canada differ from province to province. Many Alberta drivers ask: “Is window tint legal in Alberta?” And the answer depends on which windows you want to tint!

At Dustbusters Auto, we help Red Deer drivers stay stylish and compliant. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s legal, what’s not and how to avoid fines or failed inspections.

Alberta Window Tint Laws: What You Need to Know

According to Alberta’s Vehicle Equipment Regulation, here’s what’s allowed:

1. Front Windshield: No Tint Allowed

Alberta does not allow any aftermarket tint on the front windshield. The only legal tint is factory installed glazing.

2. Front Side Windows: Also Not Legal

The windows beside the driver and passenger seat cannot have any tint film. Alberta is one of the strictest provinces in Canada in this category.

3. Rear Side Windows & Rear Window: Any Tint Darkness Is Legal

You can tint your rear windows as dark as you want, including privacy tint, but only if you have both left and right side mirrors. This gives Alberta drivers plenty of flexibility for privacy and UV protection.

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Reflective Tint & Additional Restrictions

Reflective or Mirrored Tint

‘Mirror like’ or highly reflective tint films are not legal in Alberta, regardless of darkness.

Medical Exemptions

Alberta allows medical exemptions through an official application process.

No Tint Certificates Required

Alberta does not require film certificates or stickers as long as your tint complies with the rules.

Penalties for Illegal Window Tint in Alberta

Driving with illegal tint can lead to:

Fines (often $200+ per window)
Orders to remove the tint
Potential insurance or inspection issues

If you’re not sure whether your tint is legal, it’s always best to confirm before you apply film or book with a professional who knows Alberta regulations.

How Alberta Compares to Other Provinces

Car tint regulations in Canada vary widely across the country. For example:

British Columbia

Allows a tinted visor strip along the top of the windshield.
Still prohibits tint on front side windows.

Manitoba

Allows tint on front windows as long as they meet a minimum 50% VLT (visible light transmission).

If you frequently travel between provinces, knowing these differences can help you avoid tickets.

Tips to Stay Legal With Window Tint in Red Deer

To make sure your tint stays on the right side of the law:

Confirm your installer follows Alberta tint laws
Never tint your front windshield or driver and passenger windows
Keep both side mirrors functional if tinting the back glass
Keep documentation for your tint film
Apply for a medical exemption if needed
Choose a professional installer who follows Canadian regulations

Understanding Alberta window tint laws ensures you stay safe, legal and protected on Alberta roads. At Dustbusters Auto, we’re here to help you choose the right shade while keeping your vehicle fully compliant.

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