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If you've ever parked your car under the sun in Malaysia or wanted a bit of privacy while driving, you must've thought about tinting your windows
Sometimes, it's annoying that you can't even drive because the steering wheel is too hot, especially when you're already baking from the heat in your car.
Plus, you don't really appreciate people getting a clear view of your car's interior whenever you're out and about.
Whether it's the heat or the glare, tinting your car windows can bring a lot of benefits. However, it's important to know that the Road and Transport Department (JPJ) has strict rules on tinting your car.
First of all, you need to know that JPJ doesn't measure tint by how dark it is, but through something called Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
VLT is a unit of measurement that tells you the percentage of light that is able to pass through your window.
For instance:
- 70% VLT: 70% of light passes through, fairly clear
- 30% VLT: 30% of light passes through, slightly darker
- 5% VLT: 5% of light passes through, very dark
So, the higher the percentage, the lighter the tint will be and vice versa.
This means that although the tint looks dark, it can still be in compliance with JPJ's regulations, as long as the VLT percentage is within the specified number.
So, how dark can your windows be tinted in Malaysia?
Here's JPJ's latest guidelines for window tinting and their minimum VLT requirement:
| Window | Minimum VLT Requirement | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Front Windscreen | 70% VLT | Very light tint, must allow most light through |
| Front Side Windows (Driver & Passenger) | 50% VLT | Moderate tint, still fairly visible from outside |
| Rear Windows (Back & Rear Windscreen) | No limit | Can be as dark as you want |
These requirements are important and enforced so you'll still have clear visibility, especially at night or during heavy downpours.
If you still want darker front windows, you can also apply for special approval from JPJ
This is typically allowed if you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint or for security reasons if you're a high-risk individual.
Tinting your car windows is a great upgrade that can significantly improve your comfort while driving
Just remember to adhere to JPJ's latest guidelines or you'll end up with hefty fines:
- First time offenders: up to RM2,000 fine or up to six months of jail, or both.
- Repeat offenders: up to RM6,000 fine or up to 12 months of jail, or both.
For more #lifestyle stories:
- All You Need To Know About Replacing A Damaged Or Lost Vehicle Grant
- "How To Transfer Car Ownership At JPJ" — Here Are 5 Important Documents To Bring Along
- How To Apply For An International Driving Permit (IDP) In Malaysia
- Here's A List Of Countries You Can Drive In With A Valid Malaysian Driving Licence
