Not the same everywhere
The car market has shifted toward nontraditional import channels as shortages persist. Vehicles sold in many regions must carry either an official OTTS vehicle type approval or a privately issued SBKTS safety certificate based on investigative results before registration.
In engineering, most machines conform to the UN Rules. A key question now is how tint levels are treated across different markets.
Not the same everywhere
There are no complaints about cars bought in Kazakhstan and Armenia. Both countries adhere to a shared technical regulation that allows a minimum light transmission of 70 percent for the windshield and front side windows. A narrow light transmission strip up to 14 centimeters wide is permissible in the upper part of the windshield for passenger cars.
This approach is common in many places. Yet it does not apply universally.
For instance, Uzbekistan follows the 70 percent rule, while the United Arab Emirates takes a different stance despite its sunny climate. Dubai has become a key destination for new and used cars this year. In 2017, tinting requirements were relaxed there to permit 50 percent light transmission in the front rather than 70 percent.
Many vehicles, including some new ones, arrive with this tint pattern. The expectation is that any issues will be addressed during the technical inspection before vehicle registration.
European countries tend to maintain stricter standards than Russia. In the United States, Japan, and China the 70 percent rule is common, but a mirrorlike reflective coating is not prohibited in those regions. Russia prohibits such coatings as well as the so-called chameleon tint.
If caught, punished
After a taumar check, traffic police can issue a 500 ruble fine and require tint correction on the spot. If the driver resists, a written order to stop the administrative offense is issued, giving ten days to remove the tint or cease driving.
Noncompliance is treated as disobedience, carrying a potential fine of up to 4,000 rubles or an administrative detention of up to 15 days. The greater risk lies in reduced visibility at night or on dark roads, which can create dangerous conditions for all road users.
In light of these concerns, the Government of the Russian Federation has shown reluctance to lower the light transmission limit from 70 percent to 50 percent, a level seen in some Emirates. The argument centers on heat as a factor in road safety, though modern air conditioning and daytime visibility remain central to safety.
The proposal to reduce the limit faded from active consideration amid private discussions. As a result, buyers looking at distant car sources must weigh the tint issue carefully before purchase.
TINT REGULATIONS IN SOME COUNTRIES
- Armenia. Since 2015: 75 percent for the windshield, 70 percent for the front.
- Azerbaijan. Windshield 75 percent, front 70 percent, rear 60 percent.
- India. Any tinting beyond factory levels has been banned since 2012.
- Kazakhstan. In 2017 it became illegal to tint the windshield and front side windows; rear tinting is allowed.
- Europe. Most countries, including the United Kingdom, set 75 percent for the windshield and 70 percent for the front, with rear windows unconstrained. France in 2016 banned tinting of the entire front section based on accident analyses; the Netherlands followed a similar approach.
- Austria. Only the windshield remains clear in practice.
- Uzbekistan. Tinting beyond factory was briefly allowed after a long ban, with front light transmission at least 70 percent and no rear restrictions.
- United States. The general rule mirrors Russia at 70 percent for the front, with some states granting local exemptions.
- Turkey. Any tint outside factory levels has been banned since 2017.
Details on GOST standards, tinting methods, and the process for checking light transmission are provided in this publication. The material can be read in the Telegram channel Behind the Wheel under official attribution.
Requires 7,000 tires in popular sizes
Ensuring public order and reliable medical response depends on a steady tire supply for essential vehicles. A collaborative fund established by Behind the Wheel and the Popular Front is raising money to purchase tires for the Police, emergency services of the LPR and DPR, ambulances, humanitarian aid vehicles, and military equipment. Contributions can be made through the dedicated collection page as part of broader support efforts.