Do I Need to Remove Window Tint for 2021 Vehicle Inspection?

[ElleDella]

No, vehicle inspection mainly checks for changes in the car's appearance and color, as well as significant alterations to the interior space (such as adding or removing seats to convert it for cargo transport). Other modifications are generally not interfered with. Introduction to Vehicle Inspection: Vehicle inspection refers to a mandatory test for all vehicles that have obtained official license plates and registration certificates. It is equivalent to an annual physical examination for the vehicle according to the "Technical Conditions for Motor Vehicle Operation Safety." Relevant Policies: Vehicle inspection is regulated in documents such as the "Implementation Regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law." Before the inspection, some preparatory work is required (such as knowing relevant information, making online appointments, understanding the process, and being aware of vehicle-related issues) to ensure a smooth and successful inspection. There are initial and regular inspections, along with some related policies.

[Derrick]

Last year when I went for the annual inspection, I was also worried about this issue and specifically asked several testing stations. It depends on how transparent your tint film is. Regulations require the front windshield and front side windows to have a light transmittance of over 70%, otherwise it definitely won’t pass the inspection. Many dark tint films nowadays don’t meet the transmittance requirement for sun shading, and they get exposed as soon as the testing device checks them. If your film is noticeably dark or has bubbles or damage, it’s best to remove and replace it beforehand. Rear window films are less strictly regulated, but you can’t be careless with the front ones. I personally bought a portable light transmittance meter to test my car and found that the driver’s side film only had 60% transmittance, so I immediately removed it and replaced it with a compliant film. During the inspection, it passed in one go, saving a lot of hassle. Everyone, when applying tint films, remember to choose light-colored, high-transmittance ones.

[William]

Regarding window tinting and annual inspections, the key factor is whether the light transmittance meets national standards. Traffic regulations clearly stipulate that the front windshield and front side windows must have a light transmittance of ≥70%, otherwise the inspection will be rejected outright. You can easily check this at home: during the day, if you can clearly see the outline of the steering wheel and dashboard from outside the car, it generally meets the standard. I've seen people take chances by not removing the tint, only to be held up at the inspection station, frantically peeling off the film and even scratching the glass. It's better to address this in advance—compliant films aren't expensive. Dark tints on rear windows are usually fine, but be cautious with the front windows. Also, avoid overly reflective or flashy patterned films, as these may also affect inspection approval. To be safe, it's best to consult your local vehicle management office for specific requirements beforehand.

[LeBrooklyn]

Vehicle annual inspection requirements for window films are primarily based on safety standards. The driver's line of sight area, including the front windshield and the driver's side window, must have a film light transmittance exceeding 70%, which is a strict regulation enforced by the national standard implemented in 2021. The reason is simple: overly dark films pose safety hazards when driving at night, especially during rainy days when rearview mirrors become difficult to see, increasing the risk of accidents. During inspections, staff will use professional instruments to measure the transmittance, making it impossible to cheat. If your film is a dark sun-blocking type installed four or five years ago, it will likely fail the inspection. It's advisable to remove such films before the inspection rather than taking chances. Nowadays, reputable brands offer high-transmittance films that provide both sun protection and compliance, costing only a few hundred yuan. Safety should always come first—don’t cut corners to save small amounts of money at the risk of potential hazards.