RTO Fine For Using Tinted Glass

Tinted car windows have become a popular choice among vehicle owners for various reasons, such as privacy and protection from strong sunrays. However, not all tints comply with the rules and regulations set forth by the Road Transport Office (RTO). It's crucial for car owners to be aware of these regulations, the consequences, and the additional impact on other aspects, such as your car insurance policy.

What Are the Car Window Tinting Laws in India?

According to the Motor Vehicles Act, it is illegal to use any film or tint on car windows that reduces visibility beyond a certain limit. The law mandates that car windows should allow at least 70% visible light transmission (VLT) for the front and rear windshields and 50% for the side windows. Failure to comply with these laws can result in fines and other penalties, depending on the region where the violation occurs.

What is Tinted Glass?

Tinted glass refers to vehicle windows that have been treated to reduce the amount of light entering the car. This can be achieved through films, sprays, or factory-installed tints. While tinted windows are popular for keeping the car cooler, providing privacy, and blocking UV rays, excessive tinting can obstruct visibility, posing a safety risk for drivers and pedestrians.

Why are Tinted Windows Not Allowed in India?

Tinted windows are prohibited because they can obstruct visibility, making it harder for law enforcement to identify occupants inside the vehicle. This lack of transparency can lead to potential misuse, including criminal activities. The ban on heavily tinted windows also enhances road safety by ensuring drivers have a clear view, especially at night and during adverse weather conditions. It is important to adhere to these rules to avoid fines and ensure a safer driving experience for drivers.

Supreme Court Ruling on Tinted Glass in India

In 2012, the Supreme Court of India passed a landmark judgment prohibiting the use of any film that reduces visibility below the specified VLT levels. The court ruled that even manufacturer-installed tints must comply with these standards. Law enforcement authorities are empowered to issue challans (fines) to vehicles that violate these rules. The decision emphasised public safety and aimed to reduce the use of tinted glass, which can obscure visibility and contribute to accidents and crimes.

Permissible Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Levels for Cars

The law specifies clear VLT limits for vehicles in India. For the front and rear windshields, the minimum VLT should be 70%, meaning at least 70% of outside light should pass through the glass. For the side windows, this limit is 50%. Car owners must ensure that their windows meet these standards to avoid penalties. It is advisable to check with your manufacturer or RTO-approved centres for compliance to prevent issues on the road.

Fines and Penalties for Using Tinted Glass

The fines for violating tinting laws vary by state, but they generally range from INR300 to INR1,000 for first-time offenders. In Delhi, for instance, the fine is INR100 for the first violation and increases for subsequent offences. Repeated violations may result in higher fines or even the vehicle confiscation. It's crucial to stay informed about the specific rules in your area to avoid penalties.

The Purpose of Tinted Car Glass

Before delving into the regulations and fines, it's essential to understand why tinted car windows are popular. Tinted windows offer several benefits, including:

Reduced Glare

Tinted windows help reduce the sun's glare, making it easier for drivers to see the road clearly, especially during sunny days.

Increased Privacy

Tinted windows provide a level of privacy for the occupants of the vehicle, shielding them from prying eyes.

Aesthetic Appeal

Many car owners choose tinted windows for the aesthetic enhancement they offer, giving their vehicle a sleek and sophisticated look.

Temperature Factor

Tinted windows reduce the amount of sunlight that can enter the interior of the car, thus maintaining a cool internal temperature.

Regulations on Tinted Car Glass

While tinted car windows offer various advantages, they must adhere to specific regulations set by the RTO to ensure road safety and security. Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is one such regulation. VLT refers to the amount of visible light that must pass through the car's tinted windows. As per RTO regulations, the front and rear windshields are required to have a VLT of 70%, whereas the side windows are required to have a VLT of 50%. This ensures drivers have a clear view of the road and pedestrians. Why is there regulation on tinted window? The reason lies in a 2012 judgement passed by the Supreme Court of India. The VLT ratio given above was mentioned in this judgement. Before the judgment, tinted windows were majorly being used by criminal elements. To curb this menace, the honourable Supreme Court had passed this judgment. In it, not only did it specify the ratio, but it also disallowed the usage of any tints on the windows of the cars. Also Read: Underage Driving Rules & Fines: A Complete Guide

Consequences of Non-Compliance

The RTO has the power to take action against car owners who do not comply with the regulation laid down by them. For instance, if your car has tinted windows and you are caught by the authorities, they might fine and caution you for the first offence. If you are caught a second time, the fine may increase with additional action being taken by them. If the tinted film is still on your car’s window, and you are again caught by the authorities, you may face serious punishment, such as the suspension of your driver’s licence.

Ways To Avoid Non-Compliance

To avoid RTO fines for tinted car glass, vehicle owners should:

Know the Regulations

Familiarize yourself with the specific regulations regarding tinted car windows, the main regulation being the visible light transmission (VLT) ratio. If your car has a tinted film on the window, it is important that the film be removed to comply with the RTO regulation.

Company fitted tinted windows

The RTO, while abiding by the Supreme Court judgment, has allowed car manufacturers to produce tinted glass which can be used in the car. The glass produced has to be approved by the government and has to match the VLT ratio as well.

How to Remove Tinting From Your Car?

If your car windows have tints that violate the legal limits, removing the tint is essential to avoid fines. The process involves using heat to soften the adhesive on the tint film, making it easier to peel off. You can either visit a professional service or attempt to do it yourself with a heat gun or a hair dryer. After removing the tint, you’ll need to clean the windows thoroughly to remove any leftover adhesive. Once the tint is removed, ensure your car windows meet the VLT requirements to avoid future issues.

Relation Between Tinted Windows And Insurance

While your comprehensive vehicle insurance does cover the windows of your car and the damage caused it, if the windows are found to have tinted film on it, the coverage might become void. As tinted windows have been disallowed, having one on your windows might affect your claim. The punishment also carries a possibility of licence suspension, which might severely impact your chances of filing a proper claim. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under motor insurance policy.*

Do Tinted Glasses Have an Impact on Car Insurance?

While tinted windows do not directly impact your car insurance 3rd party policy, they can lead to complications if the tint is found to be beyond the legal capacity. In case of an accident, if it's proven that illegal tinting contributed to reduced visibility or was against the law, it may affect insurance claims. To avoid potential disputes, ensure that your car complies with the tinting laws, which will also protect you from penalties and ensure smoother claim processing.

Impact of Tinted Glass on Insurance Claims

Illegal tinted windows may complicate your car insurance claims process. If an accident occurs and it’s found that the tinted windows hindered visibility, leading to the accident, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company may reject the claim. While this is less of a concern when you compare car insurance policies, ensuring legal compliance helps avoid these risks. Additionally, claims related to vehicle damage caused by or exacerbated by illegal tints could be scrutinised more thoroughly by insurers.

What Are The Alternatives To Sun Films For Cars?

Since sun films are banned in India, car owners can explore other options to reduce heat and glare. These include using mesh sunshades, sun-reflective curtains, or UV-resistant car glass that complies with Indian laws. These alternatives offer protection from the sun without violating the tinting regulations. Always ensure that any modification complies with the VLT levels to avoid fines and challenges with insurance claims.

How to Pay Tinted Glass Challan Online?

Paying for your tinted glass challan is a simple process. You can visit the official website of the transport department of your respective state or use the government’s e-challan portal. Enter your vehicle number and black film challan details, and complete the payment via net banking, debit, or credit card. Ensure you keep a copy of the receipt for future reference to avoid any legal complications or repeated fines. Also Read: How to Check And Pay Traffic E-Challan Online

Conclusion

Tinted car glass can provide a range of benefits to vehicle owners, but these advantages should not come at the expense of road safety and compliance with RTO regulations. To avoid fines, legal consequences, and risks associated with non-compliant tints, it's crucial for car owners to be aware of and adhere to the specific tint regulations. By doing so, vehicle owners can enjoy the advantages of tinted windows while ensuring the safety and well-being of all road users. Along with complying with this RTO regulation, you should also comply with the rule of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1989 which mentions that a third-party insurance, such as third-party bike insurance, is mandatory for vehicles on Indian roads. Also Read: Jumping the Red Light: Fines and Payment Methods

FAQs

What is the permissible limit for tinted glass in cars?

The permissible VLT limit for front and rear windshields is 70%, while for side windows, it’s 50%.

Can I be fined if my car has factory-fitted tinted glass?

Yes, if the factory-fitted tint doesn’t meet the legal VLT requirements, you can still be fined.

How can I contest a challan issued for tinted glass?

You can contest the car black film challan by providing proof that your vehicle meets the legal VLT requirements or appealing through legal channels.

What happens if I don’t pay the tinted glass challan?

Failing to pay the car window sun shade challan can result in additional fines, legal action, or even vehicle seizure.

Are there any exemptions for using tinted glass in India?

Exemptions are rare, but certain VIPs, like government officials, may be allowed to use tinted glass under specific circumstances. *Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.