Tinting your car windows can block up to 99.9% of the harmful UV rays that enter your car. This helps to keep your car cooler and reduces your risk of skin cancer and eye damage.
This could make it tempting to have your car windows tinted very dark. But this isn’t the smartest approach. When choosing your tint, you need to consider legal window tint percentages.
This guide will help you understand car window tint percentages by state and the consequences for ignoring the legal limit.
What Is the Law?
Before you start looking at tints, you need to look up the laws in your state. For most states, the law varies based on the window you’re talking about. Some states express the limit by the amount of light that is blocked, while others outline the amount of light allowed through.
Specific Window Tint Laws
You’ll find that the front windshield is the most limited. The vast majority of states limit any real tinting to the top four inches.
As a general rule of thumb, the side windows can be tinted to allow 35% of visible light through. But this percentage varies more or less from state to state.
Some states don’t allow tinting at all for the front windows. Several states are less restrictive for the rear passenger and back windows.
If you’re unsure of how to interpret your state’s tinting laws, you can seek out a professional window tinting service. They are well versed on the local laws and can help guide you towards a legally acceptable tint.
Type of Vehicle
You’ll also notice that some states outline different laws for the type of vehicle. For most drivers, this will be irrelevant. However, if you plan to drive a vehicle that qualifies, then you’ll want to know these special exception laws.
Color and Reflectivity
Another thing to consider is the shade of tint that you choose and its level of reflectivity. Some states limit the colors you can choose, and others restrict how reflective the tint can be. Reflective tint will have a mirror-like finish that could direct sunlight into the eyes of other drivers.
What Happens If You Go Darker?
While nothing is stopping you from tinting your windows darker than what’s legally allowed, you’re putting yourself at risk. You can get pulled over by a police officer.
The penalties can vary from state to state, but possible common consequences include:
- Immediate removal of tint
- A ticket issued
- Points on your license
- Fines
- Tint replacement and confirmation by a police officer
Follow the Legal Window Tint Percentages
As you can see, there’s no one right answer for legal window tint percentages. The smartest thing you can do is look up your local and state laws. This will ensure you get each of your vehicle’s windows tinted within the legal limit.
If you’re unsure, it’s better to seek the advice of a professional window tinting service. This will protect you from the possibility of getting pulled over and facing the required removal of your tint and fines.
Browse our other auto articles for more helpful advice.
