Summary
- New York allows very little tint on front side windows
- Illegal tint may lead to fines and failed inspections
- A lawyer may be able to help you fight a window tint ticket
Whether you crave the natural beauty found in the upstate region or the neon bustle of New York City, New York has something for everyone. However, many people don’t realize it also has some of the country’s strictest laws on window tint.
In New York, a routine traffic stop can quickly become complicated if you have illegal tint on your windows. Here’s a closer look at what you need to know about New York window tint laws.
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Window Tint Darkness Limits in New York
Window tint darkness is usually expressed as a percentage of visible light transmission (VLT). Higher VLT values mean more light passes through the window (and therefore indicate a lighter tint).
Like many states, New York has slightly different regulations for cars and larger vehicles like vans. These are the window tint regulations for sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint may be on the top six inches—the rest must be at least 70% VLT
- Front Side Windows: Must be at least 70% VLT
- Back Side Windows: Must be at least 70% VLT
- Rear Window: Any tint (as long as dual rearview mirrors are used)
These are the limits for vans and SUVs:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint may be on the top six inches—the rest must be at least 70% VLT
- Front Side Windows: Must be at least 70% VLT
- Back Side Windows: Any tint
- Rear Window: Any tint
New York allows far less tint on front side windows than most states do. Although there are outliers, a significant portion of states require these windows to be between 30% and 35% VLT.
Window Tint Reflection Limits in New York
New York does not allow tint that is mirrored or reflective in any way.
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Other Tint Regulations in New York
New York requires you to have a compliance sticker indicating that your vehicle’s tint is legal. Notably, there must be a sticker on each tinted window.
New York window tint laws don’t explicitly ban any particular color of tint.
Exemptions and Special Cases
New York window tint laws allow exemptions for those with medical conditions that cause serious photosensitivity. However, you must first apply and be approved for this exemption.
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Penalties for Illegal Tint in New York
In most cases, a violation of window tint laws will result in a fine of about $150 to $200. Repeat offenders may be charged fines of up to $500. If you receive a ticket, you may be responsible for court costs and other associated expenses.
Need Legal Help With Tint Violations?
Whether you need the best car accident lawyer New York City has or you want legal advice for dealing with a window tint ticket, ConsumerShield is ready to help. We match you with qualified attorneys near you. Fill out our contact form for a free case review!
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Other new-york Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
-
No. Because these are not moving violations, New York will not add points to your license.
-
Generally, no. You may be pulled over and ticketed, but you shouldn’t be arrested for a tint violation alone.
