The Government of Guyana will begin enforcing new vehicle tint rules on January 1, 2026, following the enactment of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic (Tint) Regulations 2025, according to a statement issued by Oneidge Walrond, Minister of Home Affairs.
In a press release dated December 29, 2025, Walrond said the new regulations replace what was effectively a near-total ban on tinted windows, under which vehicles were only permitted to carry tint with an exemption and a minimum visible light transmission (VLT) of 65 per cent. Despite the clarity of the law, he noted that more than 70 per cent of vehicles on Guyana’s roads were operating outside the legal limit, making reform necessary to reflect modern realities while safeguarding public safety.
Under the new rules, all vehicles will be allowed to carry some level of tint without the need for an exemption, provided they meet clearly defined standards. From January 1, 2026, no tint will be permitted on the front windscreen, except for a visor not exceeding six inches measured from the top of the windscreen. Front side windows for the driver and front passenger must have a minimum of 25 per cent VLT, while rear side windows and the rear windscreen must have a minimum of 20 per cent VLT. The use of mirrored or reflective tint is prohibited.
Walrond said the regulations also establish a modern enforcement regime using approved tint meters, aimed at removing ambiguity and supporting fair and consistent enforcement nationwide.
The regulations introduce updated fines of GY$30,000 for offences related to the installation or use of non-compliant tint. The fines apply to both vehicle operators and businesses engaged in applying tint contrary to the law. According to the minister, the penalties were calibrated to serve as a deterrent without being punitive or excessive, and the government will closely monitor compliance, enforcement patterns, and public impact during the implementation phase. Further adjustments, including possible increases to fines, may be considered if necessary.
To support a fair transition, a three-month amnesty period will take effect from the commencement of the regulations. During this time, the Guyana Police Force will establish voluntary tint testing sites across the country, allowing vehicle owners to test their vehicles and make adjustments without penalty. Information on the locations and operation of the testing sites is expected to be released shortly. Full enforcement will begin at the conclusion of the amnesty period.
The regulations also provide for exemptions for specific categories of vehicles and individuals. These include vehicles used by the President and Prime Minister, designated senior government officials, the Police Force, Defence Force, Fire Service and Prison Service, emergency services such as ambulances, diplomatic and consular missions, licensed private security agencies, individuals with certified medical conditions requiring reduced exposure to sunlight, and businesses engaged in high-risk cash handling or security-sensitive operations.
Applications for exemptions must be submitted through the prescribed system to the Minister of Home Affairs, who may issue or refuse an exemption certificate. Medical exemptions must be supported by certification from a registered medical practitioner, and all approved exemptions will be recorded in a digital national tint registry.
Walrond encouraged motorists to take full advantage of the amnesty period and ensure compliance with the new standards, citing the broader goal of safer roads, stronger public trust, and enhanced public safety as Guyana continues its national development.
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