This guide covers ordinary passenger cars with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of no more than 4.5 tonnes. GVM is the vehicle’s maximum loaded weight rating. Factory-glass approvals, imported cars, special-purpose vehicles and heavy vehicles need separate checks.
The measured result matters
For front side windows, excluding the windscreen, regulation 42(5) allows film when the glass meets the 70% light-transmission requirement before coating and the finished window transmits at least 35%. Rear side windows and the back window behind the normal driving position may be coated to at least 20% with a compliant rear-vision mirror on each side. Glazing coated to reduce light transmission must not exceed 10% reflectance. The 35% and 20% limits apply to the glass and film together, not just the film. Vehicle and Traffic (Vehicle Standards) Regulations 2024, regulations 3 and 42(4)–(6), (9)
Mirrors are a separate requirement
Both side mirrors are required whenever any side or rear glazing is below 70% transmission. The driver must be able to see the road and following or overtaking vehicles clearly in them. This condition is broader than just fitting 20% rear tint. Regulation 32(1), (3)(c)
Windscreen and existing privacy glass
The regulation sets a 70% windscreen baseline and prohibits coatings that reduce transmission, apart from the specified upper area: the larger of the area above the highest wiper-swept point and the upper 10%. The applicable Australian Design Rules (ADRs), which set vehicle standards, still need checking. Regulations 12, 14–15 and 42(1)–(3)
The Department's linked bulletin distinguishes glass tinted during manufacture from added film, and says applying film brings the relevant window transmission requirements into play. Its privacy-glass discussion is not an automatic exemption for any dark window. If existing glass is already below the proposed minimum, obtain a vehicle-specific answer before adding film. Applied Film / Window Tint, version 1, December 2018, page 1
Before ordering
- Have the existing glass and finished installation measured, recording the meter used.
- Identify front, rear-side and back panes separately.
- Confirm both mirrors work and preserve a clear rearward view.
- Ask for reflectance information and vehicle classification evidence.
- Obtain specialist confirmation for factory privacy glass or proposed windscreen work.
The current regulation commenced on 25 June 2024. The still-linked bulletin is from December 2018 and cites older regulation numbering. Its measurement-adjustment discussion is not used here to recommend darker tint. No visitor or medical exemption is established. Goods-vehicle rules are outside this passenger-car guide. This is general source-based information, not legal advice or a compliance certificate.