Is Window Tinting Legal in Calgary? Laws & Regulations Explained

Window tinting is an excellent way to reduce glare, block harmful UV rays, and enhance privacy in your vehicle. However, not all tints are legal in Calgary and Alberta. The province has some of the strictest window tinting laws in Canada, and failing to comply could result in fines and penalties.

If you're considering XPEL Prime XR or CS window tint for your car, it’s crucial to understand which tint levels are legal and what the potential risks are. This guide will explain:

✅ Alberta’s window tinting laws

✅ Legal tint percentages for each window

✅ Fines and penalties for illegal tint

✅ Best legal window tinting options

Alberta Window Tinting Laws: What’s Allowed?

Alberta has strict regulations on how much tint can be applied to different windows. Below is a detailed breakdown of what’s legal and illegal in Calgary and throughout the province.

1. Windshield Tinting Laws

🚫 Illegal to apply any tint to the windshield, except for a small tinted sun strip along the top.

✅ Legal: A non-reflective tint strip along the top up to 15 cm (6 inches) wide.

💡 Why? The law ensures clear visibility for the driver and prevents vision impairment in low-light conditions.

2. Front Side Windows (Driver & Passenger)

🚫 Illegal to tint the driver and front passenger side windows in Alberta.

💡 Why? Police officers need clear visibility into vehicles for safety, and tinted front windows can reduce nighttime visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.

3. Rear Side Windows

✅ Legal to tint rear passenger windows with any level of darkness.

💡 No restrictions! You can apply dark or limo tints on the rear side windows.

4. Rear Windshield

✅ Legal to tint the rear windshield with any level of darkness.

⚠ Important Note: If your rear windshield is heavily tinted, your vehicle must have dual side mirrors for proper visibility.

What Are the Penalties for Illegal Window Tint in Alberta?

Failing to comply with Alberta’s window tinting laws can result in fines and even orders to remove the illegal tint.

🚨 Fines for Illegal Tint in Alberta:

• Front Side Windows – Up to $115 per window

• Windshield Tint – Up to $115 fine

• Obstructed View Due to Tint – Can result in vehicle inspection orders

Police officers can stop you at any time and issue a fine. They may also require you to remove the illegal tint immediately.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid unnecessary fines by choosing legal tint options from certified installers like Calgary Ceramic Coatings.

Why Does Alberta Have Strict Window Tinting Laws?

Alberta enforces strict tinting laws for the following safety reasons:

1. Visibility for Drivers

Dark tints can reduce visibility, especially at night or during rain/snow, increasing the risk of accidents.

2. Law Enforcement & Road Safety

Police officers must be able to see inside vehicles for safety reasons, especially during traffic stops.

3. Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrians and cyclists need to make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Tinted front windows can make this difficult.

Legal Window Tinting Options in Calgary

Even though front window tinting is illegal, you can still enhance comfort, UV protection, and privacy using legal window films.

1. XPEL Prime CS – Affordable Legal Window Tint

✔ Dyed tint for privacy and glare reduction

✔ Blocks 99% of UV rays

✔ Affordable & stylish

✔ Legal for rear windows & windshield sun strip

2. XPEL Prime XR – Advanced Nano-Ceramic Tint

✔ Nano-ceramic technology with superior heat rejection

✔ Blocks up to 88% of infrared heat

✔ No interference with GPS, radio, or electronics

✔ Legal for rear windows & windshield sun strip

3. XPEL Clear UV Protection Film – 100% Legal Alternative

Want UV protection on your front windows without breaking the law? XPEL Clear Film is the perfect solution.

✔ Provides 99% UV protection

✔ Reduces interior fading & heat buildup

✔ 100% transparent & legal on all windows

💡 Great for drivers who want to protect their front windows while staying compliant.

Can You Get a Medical Exemption for Window Tint in Alberta?

🚫 No. Alberta does not allow medical exemptions for front window tinting.

Even if you have light sensitivity, skin conditions, or migraines, there is no exemption to Alberta’s front window tint ban.

💡 Alternative: Consider installing XPEL Clear Film to protect against UV rays while staying fully legal.

Conclusion

Alberta has some of the strictest window tint laws in Canada, but you can still legally tint your rear windows and use a windshield sun strip to reduce glare.

At Calgary Ceramic Coatings, we offer XPEL Prime XR, CS, and Clear UV tinting options to help you stay comfortable, protected, and compliant.

✅ Book a consultation today to find the best legal window tinting solution for your vehicle!

FAQs

Is front window tint legal in Calgary?

No, Alberta law prohibits tinting on front driver and passenger windows.

Can I tint my windshield in Alberta?

Only a top sun strip is allowed. Full windshield tint is illegal.

What is the legal tint for back windows in Alberta?

There are no restrictions—you can have any level of tint on the rear windows and rear windshield.

What happens if I get caught with illegal tint?

You may receive a $115 fine per window and be required to remove the tint immediately.

Is clear UV tint legal in Alberta?

Yes! XPEL clear film blocks UV rays while remaining 100% legal on all windows.