Guyana to enforce 35 per cent vehicle tint rule in traffic law overhaul

The Government of Guyana is moving to introduce a national tint policy that will require all vehicles to maintain a minimum light penetration of 35 per cent.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, confirmed the development, noting that the new standard forms part of a wider overhaul of the country’s traffic laws. The reforms will also include higher fines and an expanded range of offences eligible for e-ticketing, all aimed at improving road safety.

Speaking on his weekly programme, Issues in the News, Nandlall said the updated tint system is intended to create fairness, consistency and clarity, addressing long-standing public confusion around tint regulations. He added that the 35 per cent requirement aligns with the tint level used by vehicle manufacturers.

Waivers for darker tints will be limited to a narrow group, including diplomats, certain government officials and specially designated protected persons. These exemptions will be granted strictly by the minister responsible.

Although the tint policy has sparked ongoing public debate, Nandlall insisted that the rule itself is simple. “You may disagree with the measure, but that is the measure. The measure is not unclear,” he said.

The attorney general linked the policy to the government’s broader effort to tackle dangerous driving and reduce road fatalities. He highlighted the early impact of the recently introduced e-ticketing system, which he said has already helped curb speeding and improve seatbelt compliance.

“I have no doubt that when the statistics are properly analysed, one will see a reduction in vehicular accidents… because of the approach we have taken,” he added.

As part of the reform package, the government is preparing amendments to increase penalties for speeding and other serious traffic violations, expand the list of offences that can be ticketed electronically and update statutory provisions governing driver’s licence categories, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles. (DPI)