Yes, 35% window tint is legally permissible in the Philippines under specific conditions.
A 35% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) tint is permitted for rear windows only, provided it meets the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Office (LTO) standards. Front windshield and front side windows must maintain at least 70% VLT, as mandated by Republic Act No. 11229 (Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act) and LTO Memorandum Circular No. 2020-2244. Non-compliance risks fines, mandatory removal, or vehicle impoundment. Local governments may impose additional restrictions, particularly in Metro Manila, where stricter enforcement is observed.
Key Regulations for 35% Window Tint in Philippines
- Rear Windows Only: 35% VLT tint is allowed exclusively on rear side and rear windshield windows. Front windows must remain at ≥70% VLT.
- Clearance Certification: Tints must be installed by LTO-accredited shops and accompanied by a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for verification during registration or inspection.
- 2026 Compliance Shift: The LTO is phasing in stricter enforcement protocols, including mandatory roadside VLT testing, to curb illegal tints. Vehicles with non-compliant tints installed after January 2026 may face immediate penalties.