In recent days, car window tinting has once again stirred discussion in the media and on social media. Together with Yerbol Seipilov, President of the Association of Automotive Experts and Auditors “QazAutoStandard,” we examined the new proposals and their possible impact on road safety.

Essential information as of now

According to the current traffic regulations (Order of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated 30.06.2023 No. 534), it is prohibited to use any objects on the vehicle that restrict the driver's view or pose a risk of injury.

Only the following are permitted:

– exterior rear-view mirrors

– windshield wipers

– antennas, heaters built into the glass

– window deflectors

Windshield tinting is not directly prohibited, however, this does not imply that it is permitted without limitations.

The following standards apply:

- Technical Regulations of the CU TR CU 018/2011

- GOST 33670-2015

Light transmission requirements:

- At least 70% for the windshield and front side windows;

– A light protection strip at the top of the windshield is allowed, up to 14 cm;

- The film must not distort white, yellow, red, green and blue colours;

- Mirror coatings are prohibited.

What does the expert say?

As noted by the President of the Association of Automotive Experts and Auditors, "QazAutoStandard" Erbol Seipilov, if front window tinting is to be legalised, it is essential to:

– Develop a system for monitoring the quality of the film;

– Ensure compliance with light transmittance requirements (at least 70%);

– Provide for technical inspection and/or testing at accredited laboratories to confirm compliance.

The expert also notes that the experience of countries with a hot climate shows that glass tinting helps to:

– Reduce exposure to ultraviolet radiation; 

– Protect the body from overheating;

– Reduce interior visibility from the outside, lowering the risk of theft;

– Hold glass fragments together in the event of an accident, reducing injuries.

However, all these advantages are only possible if the legal requirements are strictly followed. 

Violations of light transmission standards reduce visibility and increases the risk of accidents.

Therefore, the expert says that any changes to the rules must be accompanied by a clear system of control and administration by the competent authorities.