The Front Windows Have Rules. The Back of the Car Is Different.
In Ontario, the Highway Traffic Act, section 73(3), does not allow coloured or reflective material on the windshield, or on the windows directly left and right of the driver, that substantially obscures the interior when viewed from outside. That is why we go over shades before any window tint is cut.
Checked on October 28, 2026, against the consolidated Act on e-Laws, which showed a currency date of October 23, 2026. This is not legal advice.
Section 73, in the Act's Own Words
Section 73(3): the windshield and front side windows
"No person shall drive on a highway a motor vehicle on which the surface of the windshield or of any window to the direct left or right of the driver's seat has been coated with any coloured spray or other coloured or reflective material that substantially obscures the interior of the motor vehicle when viewed from outside the motor vehicle."
Read the full section on Ontario e-Laws. It is the Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8.
Section 73(2): every window and the driver's view
"No person shall drive a motor vehicle upon a highway where the surface of the windshield or of any window of the vehicle has been coated with any colour spray or other colour coating in such a manner as to obstruct the driver's view of the highway or any intersecting highway."
This one is about what the driver can see out, not what others can see in, and it covers every window.
What that means in practice
The two front side windows and the windshield are where the rules bite. The rear side windows and the back glass are not named in subsection 3, which is why darker film usually goes on the back half of the car. Subsection 2 still means no window can be coated so the driver's view of the road is blocked.
Numbers You Will See Online
Percentage figures
Many websites quote a specific light transmission figure for front side windows, often 70 per cent, and tie it to the provincial vehicle inspection standard. We did not confirm that figure against the primary text when we wrote this page, so we are not stating it as the rule.
Vehicle-date rules
Some sources also mention a rule tied to vehicles built from 2017 onward. We could not confirm that against the primary text either. Check the current rules before you choose a shade, and ask us.
What we do about it
We talk through the front windows with you before any film is cut, and we will not guess at the law for you. If you are unsure, read the Act on e-Laws or ask someone qualified to give legal advice.
Common Questions
Can I tint my windshield in Ontario?
Section 73(3) of the Highway Traffic Act does not allow coloured or reflective material on the windshield that substantially obscures the interior from outside. Ask us before you plan anything for the windshield.
What about the rear side windows and back glass?
Section 73(3) names the windshield and the windows directly left and right of the driver's seat. The rear windows are not named in that subsection. Section 73(2) still applies to every window: a coating must not obstruct the driver's view of the road.
Is there an exact legal percentage?
We could not confirm one against the primary text. Figures circulate online, but check the current rules and ask us before you choose a shade.
Is this legal advice?
No. This page explains what the Act says as we read it on October 28, 2026. For a legal question, read the Act yourself or ask a lawyer.
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