Where Are Tinted Windows Illegal? State By State
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Reviewed ByAdam Ramirez, J.D.
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- Understanding Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
- Legal Tint Limits for Different Vehicle Windows
- State-by-State Window Tint Regulations
- Medical Exemptions for Window Tinting
- Penalties for Illegal Window Tinting
- Tips for Complying With Tint Laws
- Impact of Tint Laws on Vehicle Inspections
- Have You Been Ticketed for Illegal Tint?
Summary
- Each state sets its own restrictions on window tint
- Sunnier states usually allow darker windows
- Having too-dark tint may result in tickets and fines
Tinted windows have many benefits, from glare relief to privacy. However, certain car modifications, like overly dark tint, can be dangerous. In low light, this tint can make it harder to see and increase the likelihood of accidents.
Because of these risks, are tinted windows illegal? While they aren’t outright banned in most areas, many jurisdictions restrict the level of tint.
Understanding Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
To understand window tint regulations, it’s important to first get an idea of how the degree of window tint is quantified. This percentage is known as the visible light transmission (VLT), and it’s often expressed as VLT%. Because a smaller VLT% means less sunlight is let in, smaller values correspond to darker windows.
For instance, a 28% tint lets in 28% of visible light. Windows with a 28% tint are darker than those with a 70% tint because the latter windows let in 70% of visible light.
Legal Tint Limits for Different Vehicle Windows
Window tinting laws are significantly more complex than many people realize. For example, the laws in specific states may permit different levels of tint for different windows:
- Front-seat windows are generally required to be much less tinted
- Backseat windows can usually be slightly more tinted
- Rear windows are often allowed the most tint
Windshield tinting laws are a little different than regulations for other windows in the vehicle. In most states, the law stipulates how much of the windshield may be tinted. Commonly, windshields may not be tinted below the windshield’s AS-1 line. This line is usually six inches below the top of the windshield.
State-by-State Window Tint Regulations
Many states have specific designations regarding the reflectivity, color, portion of the windshield affected, and placement of tinted windows on vehicles. Florida window tint laws, for instance, cap reflectivity at 25% on the front side windows and 35% on the rear windows.
Here’s a look at each state’s maximum window tint allowances:
State | Front Side Windows (min VLT) | Rear Side Windows (min VLT) | Rear Window (min VLT) | SUVs, Vans, Trucks | Statute |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Alabama | 32% (±3%) | 32% | 32% | No limit behind driver | |
Alaska | 70% (±3%) | 40% | 40% | No limit behind driver | |
Arizona | 33% VLT, 35% reflectance (±3%) | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Arkansas | 25% | 25% | 10% | 10% on rear side windows behind driver (trucks, buses, trailers, motor homes, multipurpose vehicles) | |
California | Clear film only: 88% film / 70% combined | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Colorado | 27% | 27% | 27% | Same as cars | |
Connecticut | 35% (±3%), 27% reflectance (±3%) | 35% | No limit | No limit behind driver | |
Delaware | 50% (since Aug 17, 2026) | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
District of Columbia | 70% (55% mini-vans) | 50% (35% mini-vans) | 50% (35% mini-vans) | Same as cars | |
Florida | 28% (±3%) | 15% | 15% | 6% rear sides / 6% rear window | |
Georgia | 28% (±3%) | 15% | 15% | No limit behind driver | |
Hawaii | 35% (±6%), film plus glass | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Idaho | 35% VLT, 35% max reflectance (±3%) | 20% | 35% | Same as cars | |
Illinois | 50% if all rear windows are ≥30% VLT, or 35% if all rear windows are ≥35% VLT (5% variance) | No direct limit (≥30% or ≥35% needed to allow front tint) | No direct limit (≥30% or ≥35% needed to allow front tint) | No limit behind driver | |
Indiana | 30% VLT / 25% reflectance limit | No limit | 30% | Same as cars | |
Iowa | 50% (from July 1, 2026) | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Kansas | 35%, nonreflective | 35% | 35% | Same as cars | |
Kentucky | 35% (±3%) | 18% | 18% | Same as cars | |
Louisiana | 25% (since Aug 1, 2025) | 25% | 12% | No limit behind driver | |
Maine | 35%, net of glass and film | No limit with 2 outside mirrors (otherwise 35%) | No limit with 2 outside mirrors (otherwise 35%) | Same as cars | |
Maryland | 35% (added tint) | 35% | 35% | No limit on rear windows | |
Massachusetts | 35% VLT or 35% max reflectance | 35% | 35% | Same as cars | |
Michigan | Banned below top-4 in. strip | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Minnesota | 50% (±3%) | 50% | 50% | Vans & pickup rear exempt | |
Mississippi | 28% | 28% | 28% | No limit behind driver | |
Missouri | 35% (±3%), film plus glass | No limit | No limit | No limit behind driver | |
Montana | 24% VLT, 35% max reflectance | 14% | 14% | Same as cars | |
Nebraska | 35% VLT, 35% max reflectance | 20% | 20% | No limit behind driver | |
Nevada | 35% (±7%), nonreflective | No limit with 2 outside mirrors (200 ft view) | No limit with 2 outside mirrors (200 ft view) | Same as cars | |
New Hampshire | 70% (aftermarket tint) | 35% | 35% | Same as cars | |
New Jersey | Banned on windshield and front side windows (medical exemption only) | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
New Mexico | 20%, nonreflective | 20% | 20% | Same as cars | |
New York | 70% | 70% | No limit with dual side mirrors (otherwise 70%) | No limit behind driver | |
North Carolina | 35% | 35% | 35% | No limit behind driver | |
North Dakota | 35%, glass plus tint | No limit with 2 outside mirrors | No limit with 2 outside mirrors | Same as cars | |
Ohio | 50% (±3%), glass plus film | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Oklahoma | 25% VLT, 25% max reflectance | 25% | 25% | No limit behind driver | |
Oregon | 35% total (film ≥ 50%) | 35% total (film ≥ 50%) | 35% total (film ≥ 50%) | No limit behind driver | |
Pennsylvania | 70% (±3%) | 70% | 70% | Same as cars | |
Rhode Island | 70% | 70% | 70% | Same as cars | |
South Carolina | 27%, film plus glass | 27% | 27% | No limit behind driver (pickups excluded) | |
South Dakota | 35% (±9% enforcement tolerance) | 20% | 20% | Same as cars | |
Tennessee | 35% | 35% | 35% | Same as cars | |
Texas | 25%, film plus glass | No limit | No limit with 2 outside mirrors (200 ft view) | Same as cars | |
Utah | 35% (±5%) | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Vermont | Film banned (medical exemption only) | No limit | No limit | Same as cars | |
Virginia | 50% | 35% | 35% | No limit behind driver | |
Washington | 24% VLT, 35% max reflectance | 24% | 24% | Same as cars | |
West Virginia | 35%, nonreflective, 20% max reflectivity | 35% | 35% | No limit behind driver | |
Wisconsin | 50% (±3%), glass plus film | 35% | 35% | Same as cars | |
Wyoming | 28%, nonreflective, 20% max reflectance | 28% | 28% | Same as cars |
Source: SalesThumb
Looking for more details?
The table above shows the main tint limits, but many states include additional rules and exemptions. For full details, use the interactive map below to explore your state’s tint laws:
Check Tint Laws in Your State
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Medical Exemptions for Window Tinting
Most states allow drivers with certain medical conditions to apply for a window tint exemption. If you have a medical condition that causes severe sensitivity to light, you may be able to qualify. These are some examples:
- Lupus
- Solar urticaria
- Albinism
- Erythropoietic protoporphyria
- Xeroderma pigmentosum
Each state has its own exemption process, but generally, you must at least have a doctor’s note to verify the necessity of darker windows on your vehicle. Under California window tint laws, for example, that note must come from a dermatologist.
Penalties for Illegal Window Tinting
Illegal window tint may not be as serious as a DUI or other major traffic offense, but it still comes with consequences. Often, drivers caught with too-dark windows will be issued a ticket and a fine.
Some jurisdictions will instead give you a “fix-it ticket.” This ticket requires you to resolve the issue and provide proof you’ve done so. In many states, illegal window tint is treated as an equipment violation, which can lead to escalating penalties if ignored.
If you receive a ticket, you may also find that your average car insurance cost per month increases.
Tips for Complying With Tint Laws
To avoid accidentally violating tint laws, follow these helpful tips:
- Check your state laws before getting windows tinted or when moving to another state
- Always have your tint done by a professional
- Be cautious when purchasing a vehicle with existing tinting on the windows, especially if you’re buying a car from another state
- If you think your existing tint may be illegal, ask a professional to check
Visiting a professional, licensed installer is critical .These installers use highly accurate tools to verify that the tint falls within the legal allowances.
Impact of Tint Laws on Vehicle Inspections
If your state has required vehicle inspections, it’s essential to pay attention to tint laws. A car with too-dark tint will likely fail inspection, making it impossible to renew your registration until you fix the issue. Without registration, you may not be able to drive the car legally, obtain insurance on it, or sell the car to another party.
Have You Been Ticketed for Illegal Tint?
Are tinted windows illegal in your jurisdiction? If you’ve unexpectedly received a ticket for window tint, a free consultation lawyer may be able to help you decide on your next steps.
Not sure how to find a lawyer? Let us help. ConsumerShield matches people like you with experienced lawyers nearby. Fill out our contact form for a free case review today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Dark windows can increase the risk of car accidents by obstructing the driver’s vision. If the tint is reflective, it may also be distracting for other drivers. If you’re involved in an accident with a car with dark tinting, it may be a good idea to consult with an attorney.
The best course of action is to take your car to a licensed installer to remove the tint. While you may be able to purchase tools to remove tinting on your own, you may accidentally cause damage to the vehicle while doing so.
As of May 2025, 18 different states have laws on the books that restrict the colors that can be used for tinted windows. The most commonly restricted colors are red, amber, and yellow, although some states also limit green and black tinting.
Lower VLT values mean that less light gets through, which means that the tint is darker or more effective in blocking light. Depending on your state’s laws, you may be limited in how low of a VLT is permissible for your vehicle.
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