Window Tint Laws Alberta 2026: What's Legal and What's Not
Before you tint your windows, you need to understand Alberta's laws. Getting it wrong can mean tickets, failed inspections, and expensive removal.
This guide covers everything Calgary drivers need to know about legal window tinting in 2026 — including what's actually enforced versus what's technically illegal.
The Law in Plain English
Front windshield & front side windows: 70% VLT minimum (let 70% of light through)
Rear side windows & back windshield: No restrictions — go as dark as you want
Source: Alberta Traffic Safety Act, Vehicle Equipment Regulation
Understanding VLT (Visible Light Transmission) in Alberta
VLT is the percentage of light that passes through your window. Higher percentage = more light = lighter tint.
| VLT % | Appearance | Legal Status (Front Windows) |
|---|---|---|
| 70%+ | Nearly clear (factory glass) | ✅ Legal |
| 50% | Light tint, subtle difference | ❌ Illegal |
| 35% | Medium tint, noticeable | ❌ Illegal |
| 20% | Dark, hard to see in | ❌ Illegal |
| 5% | Limo tint, near-blackout | ❌ Illegal (only rear) |
Factory glass typically measures 70-74% VLT. Adding any tint mathematically drops it below 70%.
What About the Windshield in Calgary?
The windshield has the same 70% VLT requirement for the main viewing area. However:
- Glare strip (visor band) — A tinted strip at the top of the windshield is legal if it's above the AS-1 line (usually 4-5 inches)
- UV-blocking clear film — Transparent films that block UV without reducing VLT are acceptable
- Tinted windshield — Any visible tint on the main windshield area is illegal
The Reality: Enforcement in Calgary
Here's what actually happens on Calgary streets:
Rarely Enforced:
- • Light front tint (50-70% VLT)
- • "Matching" front to factory rear tint
- • Ceramic tint at legal limits
Actively Enforced:
- • Very dark front windows (20-35%)
- • Tinted windshields
- • Any tint during traffic stops for other violations
- • Vehicle inspections (out-of-province, selling)
Inspection Warning
If you move to Alberta from another province, your vehicle must pass an Out-of-Province Inspection. Illegal tint fails this inspection. Similarly, when selling a vehicle, buyers may require it to pass a safety inspection — failed tint means removal before sale.
Legal Options for Maximum Effect
Want the benefits of tint while staying legal? Here's what we recommend:
1. Maximum Legal Rear Tint
Install 5-20% dark tint on rear side windows and back windshield (completely legal). This provides privacy, UV protection, and heat rejection where it's allowed.
2. High-Performance Ceramic on Front (70% VLT)
Ceramic tint at 70% VLT (nearly clear) blocks 99% of UV rays and rejects significant heat while staying legal. You won't see the tint visually, but you'll feel the difference in summer heat.
3. UV-Blocking Windshield Film
Clear windshield protection film blocks UV without reducing visibility. Protects against skin damage, interior fading, and adds impact resistance.
Medical Exemption Process in Alberta
If you have a documented medical condition requiring protection from light, you can apply for an exemption:
- Obtain a letter from your physician documenting the medical necessity
- Visit an Alberta Registries office with the letter and your vehicle registration
- Pay the application fee (approximately $20)
- Receive a Window Tint Exemption sticker to display on your vehicle
- Have your tint installed (exemption typically allows up to 50% VLT front windows)
Exemptions are granted for conditions like photosensitivity, lupus, certain skin cancers, and post-surgical requirements.
The Ticket Risk in Calgary
If you're ticketed for illegal tint:
- Fine: $115-$250+ depending on severity
- Order to remove: Officer may require proof of removal within set timeframe
- Multiple tickets: Continued violations = increasing fines
- No demerit points: It's a vehicle violation, not a moving violation
Our Recommendation
Stay Legal, Maximize Benefits
We recommend dark ceramic tint for rear windows (maximum privacy and heat rejection) combined with 70% ceramic tint on front windows (UV protection without visibility concerns). This setup is 100% legal and delivers most of the benefits you're looking for.
Contact us for a tinting consultation. We'll help you understand your options and achieve the look you want within Alberta's legal requirements.
Disclaimer: Laws can change. This information is current as of January 2026. Always verify with Alberta Transportation for the most current regulations.
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