The Car Window Tint Law In USA | Update Law

Window Tinting Laws in All 50 States

Window tinting laws vary by state, but generally fall into one of three categories: no front window tint allowed; rear windows must allow more than 50% visible light to pass through, or both front and back windows can have a certain amount of tint. In most states, the law allows for greater darkness when driving with headlights on at night.

A common misconception is that it's illegal to drive with your car windows down in any manner if you have darkly-tinted glass. 

In fact, some states only restrict how dark your window can be when it blocks a driver's view from either the outside or inside of the vehicle. So whether you want to roll up all your windows in order to keep out bugs while cruising down the highway, prevent people from looking in (and hearing what you're blasting through your sound system), or simply want to avoid getting pulled over by the police, you can legally lower your windows to any degree that still allows you the desired amount of tinting.

Your state may have different window tinting laws than other states. If you're looking to get your car windows tinter (or even doing it yourself), make sure that the law is clear in where and when they can be applied before getting them done! "You might want to double-check with us first- we'll help guide you through any questions or concerns."

Terminology

These are the terms you need to know in order to interpret the various state laws and limits.

VLT%: Visible light transmission is the measurement used to assess automotive window tints. This is the percent of visible light that gets through either the film (film VLT%) or window plus film net VLT%. The lower the VLT%, the darker the tint.
Front-side window tint level: This is the amount of tint (VLT%) you’re allowed on your driver and front passenger windows. This is frequently a higher value than for the rear, which allows the driver of the vehicle to be seen from outside.
Rear-side window tint level: This is the amount of tint (VLT%) you’re allowed on your rear side windows. This value is sometimes different for passenger cars and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs).
Rear window tint level: This is the amount of tint (VLT%) you’re allowed on your rear window. This value is typically the same as for the rear side windows, but some states are more restrictive.
Windshield: Your windshield cannot be tinted in any state, but some states allow you to add a sticker to the top of the windshield, usually in the area of the manufacturer’s sun shield.
Color: The state laws on tint color vary from no restrictions at all to restrictions on the use of certain colors or reflective/mirrored finishes.
AS-1 Line: This is the line extending from the letters AS-1, found on most motor vehicle windshields, running parallel to the top of the windshield.

The Fine Print

Exceptions

If you're a person who suffers from certain medical conditions, such as being light-sensitive and must carry an illness with them at all times for prescription purposes; there is still hope. Some states make exceptions to their normal tint laws- providing these people can prove they need the darkness (or sensitivity) and provide documentation of said condition showing proof that it has been approved by both their doctor AND state law makers which usually includes letters stating this type accommodation was granted upon request or ADA certification if applicable).

Interpretation

It can be hard to know what exactly is legal when it comes to window tinting. But there are some straightforward laws, like “non-reflective" which means that the film won’t reflect light in a way that makes your car visible at night or on poorly lit roads--and then again others use terms such as "excessive" for unclear reasons so just stay safe by following any guidelines provided with an agency before starting any work!One important thing to keep in mind is that most vehicles have a certain amount of light transmission blockage straight from the factory, which measures between 70-80%. This needs to be considered when you’re adding custom tint so your ride stays within legal limits!