Introduction
With Malaysia’s scorching heat and growing concerns over privacy and UV exposure, more drivers are turning to car window tinting. While tinting offers comfort and protection, it’s important to know where the law draws the line. In 2025, JPJ (Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan) continues to enforce strict rules on how dark your car windows can be tinted—especially on the front windscreen and side windows. But how much is too much? And can you actually get fined for it?
Understanding the Law: JPJ Tinting Regulations in 2025
In Malaysia, car window tinting is governed by specific guidelines issued by the Road Transport Department (JPJ). These regulations, still enforced in 2025, are in place to ensure road safety while allowing drivers some flexibility in customizing their vehicles. The key requirement in tinting compliance is based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT)—a measure of how much visible light passes through the tinted glass.
As of 2025, the JPJ regulations remain:
Front windscreen: Must allow at least 70% light to pass through.
Front side windows (driver and front passenger): Must allow at least 50% light transmission.
Rear side windows and rear windscreen: No VLT limit (you can go as dark as you like).
These standards balance privacy, comfort, and safety. The most crucial part is that the driver must have a clear view of the road, especially during night-time or in poor weather conditions.
Yes, You Can Get Fined for Non-Compliant Tints in 2025
The short answer is yes—you can get fined in 2025 if your car windows are tinted darker than the JPJ regulations allow. The enforcement is handled by JPJ officers during random checks or roadblocks, and they often use a VLT meter to measure how much light passes through the tint.
If your car fails the test, you may be penalized under Rule 17, Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Rules 1959. Penalties may include:
A fine of up to RM2,000
Or imprisonment for up to six months
Or both, for first-time offenders
Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties, and authorities can even require you to remove the illegal tint on the spot or at a later date with proof of compliance.
Common Scenarios That Trigger Tint Checks in 2025
JPJ Roadblocks – Especially during Ops Tint 2025, which may be conducted multiple times a year.
Police Checks – Especially during nationwide crime prevention initiatives.
Complaint-Based Investigations – If someone reports your vehicle for misuse.
Routine Inspections – When renewing your road tax or during Puspakom checks.
It’s worth noting that enforcement has remained consistent in 2025, with an increasing use of portable VLT meters to ensure accuracy and fairness.
Reasons for Strict Tint Laws in 2025
While many Malaysians appreciate darker tints for privacy and heat protection, JPJ’s main concern in 2025 continues to be driver visibility and public safety. Overly dark front windows:
Impair the driver’s ability to see clearly at night or in the rain
Make it harder for traffic enforcement officers to see who is inside the vehicle
Obstruct visual communication with other drivers
Can be used to hide criminal activity inside the vehicle
The rise in carjackings and misuse of dark tints in criminal cases in recent years has reinforced JPJ’s stand on strict enforcement in 2025.
Special Approval for Darker Tints (Updated for 2025)
If you need darker tints for medical or safety reasons, JPJ continues to provide an application system in 2025. However, the process has been digitized for greater convenience.
To apply:
Fill in the updated JPJ e-Tint application form on the MyJPJ app or website
Upload supporting medical documentation
Pay the processing fee (RM50 for private vehicle requests in 2025)
Await digital approval and download the electronic certificate
This certificate must be kept digitally or printed in the vehicle at all times in case of inspection.
Tint Shops and 2025 Compliance
Not all car tint shops are up to date with 2025 compliance requirements, so it’s important to be vigilant. While most reputable shops now provide digital VLT verification reports, some still rely on older methods.
As a vehicle owner in 2025, you should:
Ask for VLT documentation and a printout or digital report
Use certified dealers that partner with JPJ-approved tint film suppliers
Keep a copy of the tint warranty and VLT certificate in your glovebox or e-wallet
This helps protect you from unnecessary fines or disputes during roadside checks.
Tips to Stay JPJ-Compliant in 2025
Front Windscreen: Min. 70% VLT
Front Side Windows: Min. 50% VLT
Rear Windows: No Limit (use wisely)
Installations: Use certified and reputable tint installers
Proof: Store VLT reports, warranty, and any JPJ approval certificates
In 2025, JPJ is expected to continue regular Ops Tint enforcement, especially during festive seasons and road safety campaigns—so compliance is not just smart, it’s necessary.
Conclusion
In 2025, the answer is clear—yes, you can definitely get fined for having dark tints that do not comply with JPJ’s legal limits. While tinting your vehicle offers many benefits like heat reduction, UV protection, and enhanced privacy, it must still meet the minimum VLT (Visible Light Transmission) requirements. Being informed and working with reputable tint providers can save you from unnecessary fines, inconvenience, or even the risk of losing insurance claims. If you plan to upgrade your tint this year, make sure you’re not just going for style or comfort—go for compliance too.
FAQ
Front windscreen must allow at least 70% light through, front side windows 50%, while rear windows and rear windscreen have no limit.
Yes. You can apply for special approval through JPJ with valid medical documentation. In 2025, this can be done online via the MyJPJ app or JPJ portal.
You could face a fine up to RM2,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both for a first offense.
Not always. Some shops may label tints as JPJ-compliant, but combined with factory glass, the VLT may still drop below legal levels. Always check with a VLT meter after installation.
