When it comes to customizing your vehicle, window tinting is a popular choice for many drivers. It not only adds a sleek look to your car but also provides privacy, reduces glare, and helps keep your car cool.
However, when it comes to window tints, one question pops up more often than any other: “Are window tints legal?”
And the answer is both yes and no.
Read on to gain a better understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding window tinting.
Window Tint Darkness
When it comes to deciding if a window tint is legal or not, the first thing to consider is the window tint darkness. This is measured as Visible Light Transmission (VLT), or the percentage of visible light that passes through your tint. The lower the VLT, the darker the tint. For example, a window tint with a VLT of 35% allows only 35% of light in.
Every state has its own specific regulations for window tint darkness. These regulations can vary for the different windows on your vehicle—windshield, front side windows, back side windows, and rear window—and for different vehicle types such as a sedan or an SUV. Working with a window tint professional can ensure that these regulations are met.
Window Tint Reflection
Window tint reflection is another key factor regulated by law. This refers to the amount of light that is reflected off of or away from your window tint. It’s this reflection that helps keep your vehicle cool and reduces glare. However, too much reflection can be a hazard to other drivers.
Similar to window tint darkness, states have specific regulations on how reflective your window tints can be. For the most part, these tints can’t be more reflective than your average car window, but some states have very specific limits on the reflectivity of window tints.
Other Restrictions
While window tint darkness and reflection are regulated across all states, some also have additional rules and limitations regarding window tint. This can include bans on specific tint colors, mandatory stickers on your vehicle that state the window tint meets legal requirements, limits on which windows can be tinted and how, or specific certifications from the tint manufacturer.
Window tinting can be a great way to enhance your vehicle's appearance and comfort, but it's vital to stay within the legal limits. When you have tint installed by a qualified window tinting professional, you can be confident that your vehicle will meet all legal requirements—and look stylish while doing it.
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