Fine for curtains on car windows: what the law says in

Curtains on the side windows of a car are a popular solution for protection from the sun, prying eyes, and even a little insulation of the interior. However, many drivers doubt: Are such accessories allowed according to traffic rules? and is there a fine for them? In 2026, the rules remain strict, but there are nuances that allow you to avoid punishment.

In this article we will look at:

• 📜 What the law says about light transmission of glass and curtains
• 🚔 What are the fines? provided for violation (with current amounts)
• ✅ Exceptions and legal alternatives tinting
• 🔍 Like traffic police inspectors checking windows on the road
• 💡 Practical adviceso as not to run into a fine

Spoiler: curtains on the front side windows are almost always equivalent to tinting, which means that you can get a fine for them. But there are loopholes - read on!

Are the curtains on the windows tinted? Understanding the terms

From a legal point of view, curtains for car windows are equivalent to a tint film if they reduce light transmission. Według GOST 32565-2013 and Technical regulations of the Customs Union, for front side windows the light transmittance coefficient is acceptable at least 70%.

The problem is that most curtains (even mesh or perforated ones) reduce transparency below this threshold. For example:

• 🔳 Plastic curtains (such as “blinds”) - usually let in 30–50% of light.
• 🧵 Fabric curtains - 40–60%, depending on the density of the material.
• 🕳️ Perforated films - can give up to 70%, but only if the holes occupy ≥50% of the area.

Traffic police inspectors don't discriminate, what exactly is installed on the glass - film or removable curtains. Only one thing is important to them: if the light transmission of the front side windows is below 70%, this is a violation.

Fines for window curtains in 2026: amounts and articles

If a traffic police inspector stops you and records a violation of light transmission, then according to Part 3.1 Art. 12.5 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation, you face:

Type of violation	Fine (rub.)	Additional measures
Curtains/tinting on front side windows (light transmittance <70%)	500	Demand to eliminate the violation (remove the curtains)
Curtains on windshield or rear window (except mirror tinting)	1 500	May prohibit operation until elimination
Repeated violation (if not eliminated on time)	1 000–1 500	It is possible to confiscate STS before inspection
Curtains with mirror effect (on any glass)	5 000	Accessory confiscation

Important: a fine will be issued not for the curtains themselves, and for non-compliance with light transmission requirements. That is, if you can prove that your curtains transmit ≥70% of light (for example, using certificate of conformity), the fine can be challenged.

⚠️ Attention! Inspectors often use tinting testers (for example, "Blik" or "Light"). If your curtains are removable, ask to remove them before taking measurements - this can save you from a fine.

When are curtains on windows allowed? Exceptions and legal options

Not all curtains are prohibited. Here are the cases when their use doesn't break the law:

• 🚗 Rear windows — there are no restrictions on light transmission (any curtains can be used).
• ☀️ Sun visors - if they are attached outside (for example, on suction cups) and can be easily removed.
• 🔍 Perforated films with a certificate confirming light transmission ≥70%.
• 🚑 Special transport (ambulance, cash collection) - separate rules apply for them.

Also allowed curtains with magnetsif they:

• Don't close anymore 30% glass area.
• Easy to remove without tools.
• Do not distort the driver's view.

Which curtains will definitely not lead to a fine?

According to judicial practice, inspectors will not fine you for:

1. Fabric curtains on the rear windows (even if they are opaque).

2. Mesh curtains with cells ≥3 mm (light transmission usually ≥75%).

3. Curtains certified as "sun protection" (marked according to GOST).

4. Temporary curtains (for example, for parking) if they are removed while driving.

Advice: If you often use curtains, choose models with certificate of conformity GOST 32565-2013. It can be presented to the inspector as proof of legality.

How do traffic police inspectors check curtains on the road?

The verification usually takes place in two stages:

1. Visual inspection — the inspector assesses how dark the windows are. If the curtains clearly opaque, he can immediately issue a fine.
2. Instrument metering - with the help taumeter (device for testing light transmission). If the indicator is <70%, a violation is recorded.

What to do if you are stopped?

1. Politely ask the inspector to take measurements without curtains (if they are removable).

2. Show the certificate for the curtains (if you have one).

3. Specify which glass caused the complaint (front or rear).

4. If a fine is issued, do not argue on the road - appeal later through the State Services or the court.

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There are times when inspectors wrong fined for curtains on the rear windows. In this case, it is easy to challenge the fine - just show a photo of the car, where you can see that the curtains are installed only from behind.

⚠️ Attention! If the inspector demands to remove the curtains right on the road, you have the right to refuse. He can only issue a fine or issue an order to eliminate the violation within 10 days.

How to avoid a fine for curtains? Practical advice

If you are not ready to part with the curtains, use these recommendations:

• 🔄 Use removable curtains — take them off before the trip or when you see the inspector.
• 📄 Bring your certificate with you for curtains (if they are certified).
• 🚗 Install curtains only on rear windows - it's 100% legal.
• 🔍 Check light transmission in a car service before purchasing curtains.
• 📱 Take a photo of the installation - this will help to challenge the fine if the inspector made a mistake.

Another life hack: some drivers use Velcro curtains, which can be quickly unpinned. The main thing is that they do not leave marks on the glass and do not interfere with the view.

Frequently asked questions about window blinds

Is it possible to use curtains on the front windows if they are transparent?

Yes, but only if they do not reduce light transmission below 70%. Most “transparent” curtains in practice provide a darkening effect of up to 50–60%, so the risk of a fine remains. It is better to choose certified models or use them only when parked.

Which curtains are the safest from a legal point of view?

The most reliable option is curtains for rear windows (no restrictions) or removable sun screens, which are attached externally. Perforated films with a certificate are also legal (for example, LLumar Air Blue or SunTek CS).

Can you deprive your license for having curtains on your windows?

No, deprivation of rights behind the curtains not provided. Maximum fine: 500–5,000 rubles (depending on the type of violation). However, if you ignore the order to eliminate the violation, you may have problems passing the inspection.

How to challenge a fine for curtains?

The fine can be challenged through:

• 📱 Public services (section "Fines") - if the inspector made a mistake in the protocol.
• ⚖️ Court - if you have evidence (certificate, photo, video).
• 📧 Complaint to the traffic police — if the light transmission measurement was carried out with violations.

In your complaint, indicate that the curtains are removable and were not used while driving, or provide a certificate.

Conclusion: Is it worth the risk?

Curtains for car windows are a convenient accessory, but from a legal point of view they equal to tinting. If you don't want to pay fines, follow these simple rules:

• ✅ Use curtains only for rear windows.
• ✅ Choose certified models with confirmed light transmission.
• ✅ Remove curtains before the trip, if they are on the front windows.

If you're willing to take a little risk, removable curtains with magnets or Velcro are a good compromise. The main thing is not to catch the eye of inspectors too often!