Posted on 11/24/22

Are These Tints Legally Prohibited

Are These Tints Legally Prohibited

Tinted windows aren't just for cars and vans. They can also be used to reduce glare and cool interiors during hot summer days. The law in about fifteen states does not allow window tint to be used in vehicles, especially in the driver's areas. However, laws vary widely. Different communities have different laws that reflect their sensibilities to window tinting. Sometimes, the differences are minimal.

The question of jurisdiction

A jurisdiction might have a different heavy tint allowance than another. The City of Chicago, for example, is not in line with Illinois's window tinting laws. The state law allows more tint than Chicago.

Visible Light Transmission

It's all about the percentage of visible light transmission (VLT) with window tint. Some jurisdictions prohibit window tint with any VLT. This can make it difficult to argue because the tint could obstruct your vision while driving. Window tint can be argued about as obstructing driver vision. Next, regulations must be applied to the window tint of both the driver and passenger. Most jurisdictions prohibit window tints exceeding 50 percent of VLT in the driver's and passenger's windows. It might be restricted to the same amount in the back window and second-row seats.

Vans

Vans, on the other hand, are sometimes regulated in a different way. Vans can have different window tinting. While the window tint may be the same for the windshield, drivers' and passengers' windows, the rest of the windows are possibly to be blacked out. This is not surprising considering panel vans are often equipped with just three windows at the front.

Window tint that acts as a mirror reflection can be prohibited by law. Most jurisdictions allow only twenty percent reflective tint on vehicles. Twenty percent reflection is considered a fairly dark tint. However, if you are more interested in reflective tints than regular tints, there may be restrictions.

Color Tint

Although it seems that window tint color is not important in law, some jurisdictions prohibit the use of any tint on vehicles. For example, Colorado prohibits red. You might also be restricted in other colors, so be aware. You may be issued a ticket without any reason. The reflective tint color is often treated in the same manner as the tint color.

Car Manufacturers Do Not Have to Certificate

Although car manufacturers are rarely required to sign off on compliance with any law, aftermarket window tinters might have to do so in certain jurisdictions. The certificate must be visible on the driver's car window. It is recommended that the certification be visible even if it's not required by law. If they suggest it, you can avoid the hassle of appearing in court by posting the certification on your driver's windows.

It's important to understand the laws in your area. Window tint can also be an important part of some states.