Can You Get a Ticket for a Cracked Windshield in Calgary?
If you’ve ever driven around Calgary with a small crack on your windshield, you’ve probably wondered—could this actually get me a ticket?
The short answer is yes, it can. Alberta’s vehicle equipment laws are clear about what counts as safe and what’s not when it comes to windshield damage.
At 5 Star Auto Glass, we often hear from Calgary drivers who aren’t sure where the line is between a harmless chip and a ticket-worthy crack. This article breaks down what Alberta’s Vehicle Equipment Regulation says, what types of damage could get you fined, and what to do if you’re pulled over with a cracked windshield.
Keep reading to learn more!
What the Alberta Vehicle Equipment Regulation Says
Under Alberta’s Vehicle Equipment Regulation (Section 80), your windshield must be free from damage that affects your ability to see clearly.
That means any cracks, chips, or scratches that interfere with your view of the road—or could spread and cause further visibility issues—are considered unsafe.
Police and inspection officers have the right to issue a ticket or vehicle inspection notice if the windshield damage poses a safety risk. So while not every chip will get you fined, you can still get a ticket for a cracked windshield in Calgary if the damage impairs your visibility or compromises the structural integrity of your vehicle.
What Types of Damage Can Get You a Ticket?
Here’s where things get more specific.
You might not get pulled over for a tiny rock chip, but some types of damage are more likely to raise flags:
- Cracks in the driver’s line of sight – If the damage is right in front of you or directly affects how you see the road, it’s a ticket risk.
- Large cracks (over 30 cm) – Big cracks can weaken the glass and make it more likely to shatter on impact.
- Spreading or multiple cracks – These can quickly worsen, especially in Calgary’s fluctuating weather.
- Discoloration or starburst cracks – Anything that distorts light and visibility can get you stopped.
Basically, if an officer thinks your windshield damage could obstruct your view or endanger others, you could be fined or required to repair it before driving again.
What to Do If You’re Pulled Over with a Cracked Windshield
If you do get pulled over, stay calm and polite. Most officers will assess the situation first.
In some cases, they might issue a “fix-it ticket”, giving you time to repair or replace the glass before it turns into a fine. If the crack is serious, you might receive a citation right away—typically around $115 or more depending on the severity.
Our best advice is to take action before it reaches that point.
Drive Clear, Drive Safe with 5 Star Auto Glass
Windshield damage often starts small but can quickly become a safety hazard. Calgary’s temperature swings, gravel roads, and winter debris can make even minor chips grow fast. If you want to avoid getting a ticket for a cracked windshield in Calgary, it’s best to get the damage inspected or repaired as soon as possible. Quick chip repairs are affordable, fast, and can save you from having to replace the entire windshield later.
At 5 Star Auto Glass, our team will handle windshield chip repair and replacement for all makes and models—so you can drive with confidence and avoid unnecessary tickets.
