Are Car Stickers Prohibited? A Legal Guide for Türkiye.
Are car stickers prohibited?
Are car stickers banned? Stickers are not completely banned.
Are car stickers prohibited? However, their use on windows , especially the windshield and the driver's field of vision, is effectively prohibited and punishable.
Small decorative stickers on car bodies generally don't cause problems; however, those that are for advertising or text purposes require legal permission and are often registered on the vehicle's registration certificate.
2. Legal basis: Article 26/3 of the Traffic Law No. 2918
According to the law, it is prohibited to attach or affix advertisements, writings, pictures, signs, symbols, etc. to a vehicle without permission or registration, except for mandatory signs.
This includes large advertising stickers, lettering, and logo wraps .
Example for 2025: The fine for "writing/stickers on car windows" is 993 TL (discounted for upfront payment), and the writing/sticker must be removed.
3. Stickers on the glass
Windscreen and driver's field of vision
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According to TÜVTÜRK, you will fail the inspection if there are any labels, pictures, stickers, or writings that compromise the integrity of the windshield.
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Window tinting guidelines also emphasize that the use of colors/films that impair visibility is prohibited.
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Traffic enforcement also explicitly states that "writing on windows and applying stickers is prohibited."
➜ In practice: Using stickers on the windshield and front side windows carries a very high risk.
Rear window / side windows
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If it significantly impairs visibility or obscures elements such as brake lights, third brake lights, license plates, or turn signals, it may result in fines and inspection issues.
➜ Even if it's a small decorative sticker, it's legally safer to use it on the car body rather than the glass, if possible.
4. Stickers on the bodywork (body)
Decorative small stickers/strips:
It's generally tolerated; the important thing is not to cover the license plate, headlights, taillights, and reflectors .
Advertisement, logo, company name, large-scale branding:
Legally, it falls under the category of advertising/signage; doing so without permission and registration can be considered a violation of Article 26/3 of the Traffic Law, and is subject to fines and removal orders.
5. Inspection (TÜVTÜRK) dimensions
Stickers/advertisements on the windshield can be considered a serious defect during inspection because they compromise the integrity of the glass.
Decorative stickers on car bodies usually pass inspection; however, if advertising lettering exceeding regulatory limits is detected, removal may be requested.
6. Safe "checklist" in practice
If you don't want to take any risks:
Leave the windshield and front side windows completely clear.
Apply the sticker to body surfaces such as the hood, doors, fenders, and bumper .
Never extend the license plate, headlights, taillights, turn signals, reflectors, or third brake light beyond the limit.
For large logos and lettering used for commercial/advertising purposes, ensure they are included in the license and follow the permit process, if possible.
If a fine is issued during a control check, a procedure requiring immediate removal and setting a deadline may be initiated; if not removed within the specified time, the vehicle may be impounded.
Final note: This guide is for general informational purposes only; for a definitive and case-specific legal opinion, it is best to consult with a lawyer or directly with traffic authorities.
