TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Transportation on Tuesday proposed new regulations limiting window tinting on new vehicles, expected to take effect in the first quarter of next year.
Considering Taiwan’s geography, climate, and driving habits, many vehicles have heat-insulating film to reduce heat, block UV rays, or minimize glare, per CNA. The ministry said the revisions aim to ensure drivers have clear visibility and an unobstructed field of view to maintain traffic safety.
Under the draft amendment, new vehicles with heat-insulating film must comply with ministry-approved standards. The front windshield must allow at least 70% visible light transmission, except for a 15 cm strip from the top edge.
Front side windows must allow at least 40% visible light transmission. Compliance with window tinting will be included in subsequent periodic vehicle inspections.
For taxis, in addition to the front windshield and front side window requirements, the rear side windows and rear windshield must also use approved heat-insulating film with at least 40% visible light transmission.
The ministry announced the draft revision on Dec. 12 with a 30-day public notice period. Hu Ti-chi (胡迪琦), director-general of the Department of Public Transportation and Supervision, told CNA that due to legislative procedures and supporting measures, the rules are expected to be enforced in the first quarter of next year.
Hu added that the amendments will target newly registered vehicles, with no retroactive effect on vehicles already registered. Penalties are set in Article 39 of the Road Traffic Safety Regulations, which stipulate that vehicles failing to meet the requirements will not be eligible for registration.
