British Columbia Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
As of 2026, British Columbia allows no front tint and any darkness on the back side windows on a sedan. Windshield tint: Top 75mm (3 inches) strip only permitted.
British Columbia VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
Top 75mm (3 inches) strip only permitted
Front Side
None
VLT minimum
Back Side
Any
VLT minimum
Rear
Any
VLT minimum
No aftermarket tint on front side windows is permitted in BC. Any darkness on rear side and rear window.
British Columbia VLT Limits (2026, SUV & Truck)
Same VLT limits as a sedan — the difference is in the conditions below.
Windshield
Top 75mm (3 inches) strip only permitted
Front Side
None
VLT minimum
Back Side
Any
VLT minimum
Rear
Any
VLT minimum
No aftermarket tint on front side windows in BC.
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Window tint in British Columbia
British Columbia bans all aftermarket tint on front side windows entirely with no exceptions, which puts it in the most restrictive category anywhere in Canada. Back side and rear windows are completely unrestricted on all vehicle types, so the strategy here is the same as New Jersey or Vermont: go as dark as you want in the back. There is no medical exemption available either, so the front ban is absolute.
How British Columbia compares
Tint ticket costs in British Columbia
First Offense
CAD $109 violation ticket
Repeat Offense
CAD $109+
Medical exemptions in British Columbia
No medical exemptions for front side windows in BC. Front side tint is prohibited regardless of medical condition.
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 British Columbia?
Front side windows need a minimum of no aftermarket tint. Back side windows require any darkness, and the rear window requires any darkness.
Are window tint laws different for SUVs and trucks in British Columbia?
The VLT limits are the same for both body styles. A sedan in British Columbia needs no aftermarket tint on the front side windows, any darkness on the back side windows and any darkness on the rear window. An SUV, van or pickup needs no aftermarket tint on the front side windows, any darkness on the back side windows and any darkness on the rear window. No aftermarket tint on front side windows in BC.
How much is a tint ticket in British Columbia?
A first offense is typically CAD $109 violation ticket. Repeat offenses can cost CAD $109+. 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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