$30,000 fine for breaches of new tint regulations – AG reminds

Motorists who breach the newly implemented tint regulations will face a $30,000 fine, Attorney General Anil Nandlall reminded citizens Tuesday night, as he clarified the updated rules and exemption process now in force.

Nandlall said the regulations, made under the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, introduce a new system that allows darker tints than before while eliminating the need for exemptions once vehicles fall within approved limits.

Under the updated rules:

• Front windscreen: No tint permitted except for a visor strip
• Visor strip: 25% visible light transmission (VLT), limited to 6–10 inches depending on size
• Front side windows: Minimum 25% VLT
• Rear side windows and rear windscreen: Minimum 20% VLT

He explained that the higher the VLT percentage, the lighter the tint, while lower percentages indicate darker tint.

“Once you fall within those categories… you don’t need any tint exemption anymore,” he said.

Nandlall stressed that exemptions are now restricted to specific categories, including government officials, emergency services, diplomats, security services, medically certified individuals, and certain high-risk businesses.

However, persons must still apply in writing to the Minister and receive approval before operating outside the legal tint limits.

“You must fall into these categories… and you must apply to the minister to secure the exemption,” he said.

Drivers who exceed the permitted tint levels without an approved exemption will be committing an offence under the law.

“If you breach any of the percentages… you would be committing a criminal offence and be fined $30,000,” Nandlall stated.

The regulations were published in the Official Gazette on January 1, 2026, and have now come into operation.

Nandlall said the changes are meant to simplify the previous system, which required widespread exemption applications, while maintaining enforcement standards.