New South Wales Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
As of 2026, New South Wales allows 35% VLT on front and 20% on the back side windows on a sedan. Windshield tint: No aftermarket tint. Top 10% strip (above wiper reach) permitted.
New South Wales VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
None allowed
Front Side
35%
VLT minimum
Back Side
20%
VLT minimum
Rear
20%
VLT minimum
NSW prohibits all reflective tint. Combined NET VLT (glass + film) is measured.
New South Wales VLT Limits (2026, SUV & Truck)
Same VLT limits as a sedan — the difference is in the conditions below.
Windshield
None allowed
Front Side
35%
VLT minimum
Back Side
20%
VLT minimum
Rear
20%
VLT minimum
NSW prohibits all reflective tint. Commercial-classified vehicles may have any tint behind driver.
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Window tint in New South Wales
New South Wales measures combined net VLT which includes the factory glass, meaning the actual film you can use is less dark than the 35% number implies. Sedan rear windows are limited to 20% which is fairly dark and workable, and commercial vehicles behind the driver can go unrestricted. Reflective tints are completely off the table in NSW, so stick to standard non-reflective film.
How New South Wales compares
| State | Front | Back | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | 35% | 20% | 20% |
| Victoria | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Queensland | 35% | 20% | 20% |
| South Australia | 35% | 20% | 20% |
| Western Australia | 35% | 20% | 20% |
Tint ticket costs in New South Wales
First Offense
AUD $349 + 3 demerit points
Repeat Offense
AUD $349+ per offense
Medical exemptions in New South Wales
Available via RMS application. Ophthalmologist must certify condition. Allows darker tint on specific windows. Must carry approval letter.
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Tint laws change frequently. Always verify current regulations with a certified installer or your local DMV before making any decisions. Car Editor is not responsible for any fines, penalties, or legal issues resulting from the use of this information.
Nearby States
Driving across state lines? Check neighboring tint laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal window tint in New South Wales?
Front side windows need a minimum of 35% VLT. Back side windows require 20% VLT, and the rear window requires 20% VLT.
Are window tint laws different for SUVs and trucks in New South Wales?
The VLT limits are the same for both body styles. A sedan in New South Wales needs 35% VLT on the front side windows, 20% VLT on the back side windows and 20% VLT on the rear window. An SUV, van or pickup needs 35% VLT on the front side windows, 20% VLT on the back side windows and 20% VLT on the rear window. NSW prohibits all reflective tint. Commercial-classified vehicles may have any tint behind driver.
How much is a tint ticket in New South Wales?
A first offense is typically AUD $349 + 3 demerit points. Repeat offenses can cost AUD $349+ per offense. Fix-it tickets are available, giving you time to remove or replace the film.
What is combined VLT and why does it matter?
Your car's factory glass already blocks some light (usually around 70-80% VLT). When you add tint film, the combined VLT is lower than the film alone. For example, 35% film on 75% factory glass gives you about 26% combined VLT. The calculator above does this math for you.
Can I preview tint on my car before installing?
Yes. Car Editor's AI tint simulator lets you upload a photo of your car and see any tint level applied to it in seconds. You can try different VLT percentages on your actual vehicle before committing.
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