U.S. & Canadian Tint Laws

jc21 · 10-27-2006, 04:46 PM

Disclaimer: The author is not responsible for any mistakes or misinformation. The user may use the information at their own risk and the writer is not responsible for problems arrising from the use of this document.

WARNING !!!!!
Window Tint reference are for personal use by individuals, tint business, or for educational use. Government officials are prohibited from using this reference related to the enactment of window tint laws or regulations, changing current window tint laws or regulations without EXPRESS permission of the author, Brad Cuppy - Mail me.

USE AT YOUR OWN RISK !!!!!!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Percentage Numbers represent amount of light transmission.
Example : 35% means 35% light transmission.
Also known as VLT or Visible Light Transmission.
Film - Amount of light that is required to pass through window film.
Example : 35% Film means that the film must pass through at least 35% visible light.

Net - Amount of light that is required to pass both the car window and the tint film.
MPV - A vehicle such as a recreation vehicle such as a pickup truck including GMC Suburbans, Nissan Pathfinders, Extra Cab Trucks

When info is given, it is in the format of :
Windshield / Front Side Windows / Rear Side Windows / Rear-Back Window / Year Passed
Where :
NO - No Film is Allowed
ANY - Any degree of tinting is allowed
AS-1 - On the windshield, there is a mark that says "AS-1" toward the top that defines that the tint cannot go below.
UnDef - Nothing defined in the law.
FMVSS 205 - A regulation that is found in the Code of Federal Regulation. The regulation is found in 49 CFR 571.205
35 % Film - Light that is measured on the film alone
35 % Net - Light that is measured both through the film and car window

Example

4 inches / 35 % Film / 15 % Net / 5 % Net / 1994

A tint brow on the windshield cannot go no lower than 4 inches, 35% film may be applied to the front side windows, 15% light must go through the combined window film and windows for the rear side windows and 5 % light transmission is required on the rear back window and film combined. The year 1994 is the year that the law went into effect.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alabama
6 inches / 35% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1996

Note : MPV Vehicles are exempt behind the front side doors.

Alaska
5 inches / NO / 40% Net / 40% Net / 1994

Note : MPV Vehicles can have any degree of tinting behind the front side doors so long as they comply with FMVSS 205. Mirrored tint is prohibited.

Enforcement Note : Tint regulation does apply to non-Alaska registered vehicles. State Troopers write fix-it tickets which requires "repair" within 5 days and the City of Anchorage will write $150 tickets for the violation.

Arizona
UnDef / 35% Film / ANY / ANY / 198?

Arkansas
UnDef / 25% Net / 25% Net / 10% Net / 1994

Note : MPV's are allowed 10% Net tint on rear side windows

Enforcement Note : Tint law applies only to AR registered vehicles and vehicles from other states that have NO tint law which is now moot since all 50 states have some type of tint law with Wyoming being the last to pass a tint law.

California
NO / NO / ANY / ANY* / 1987 ?

Note : If the rear-back window is tinted, left and right rear-view mirrors are required.

Medical exemption allows for tint or other shading material is allowed on the front side doors if it allows at least 35% of the light to go through, readily is removable and cannot be used at night.

Enforcement Note : Out-of-State cars driven in California are required to be in compliance with the CA Tint law.

Colorado
2 Phase Law:
4 inches or AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / 1989
4 inches or AS-1 / 27% Net / 27% Net / 27% Net / 1989

Note : No mirrored tint is allowed.

Enforcement Note : The fine for being in violation is $50 and the driver is not usually required to fix the windows. Tint shops are not allowed to tint cars beyond state law. State patrol carries light meters along with some local towns but they don't worry about window tinting unless it is very dark such as limo tint (5%).

Connecticut
Complex / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1995

Note : MPV Vehicle windows behind the front side doors are exempt so long as they meet FMVSS 205. The Windshield can have a tint strip at the top. The amount is determined by a complex formula as defined in Sec 14-99g, Subsection C, part 11 as written by an East Coast lawyer.

Delaware
AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / 199?

District of Columbia
NO / NO / 50% Net / 50% Net / 1994

Enforcement Note : Can apply to out-of-state motorist, no out-of-state exemption defined in statute.

Florida
AS-1 / 28% Net / 15% Net / 15% Net / 198?

Note : MPV Vehicles windows behind the front side doors must allow for 6 % Net light transmission.

Enforcement Note : Law enforced by the use of light meters and can apply to out-of-state motorist.

Georgia
NO / 32% Net / 32% Net / 32% Net / 2005

Note : New law went into effect that can be enforced on out of state vehicles as well as Georgia registered vehicles. Penalty is up to $1000 and/or 12 months in jail as a misdemeanor.

On Jun 8, 2004, the Georgia Surpreme Court threw out GA's tint law since it discriminated against GA residents by not applying to non-residents. Look for the non-resident exemption to be repealed next year which would reinstate the tint law.

This can have ramifications for other states who exempt non-residents from their tint laws. Legislation was sponsored in the 2004 session to remove the non-resident exemption but failed to pass.

Guam
ANY / ANY / ANY / ANY / 1978/9

Note : It was illegal to have tint but the tint law was declared unconstitutional as noted in the court decision part.

Hawaii
NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 198x

Enforcement Note : Illegal tint on cars can be a reason to be failed in the state safety inspection.

Idaho
AS-1 / 35% Film / ANY / 35% Film / 1993

Note : Mirrored tint is illegal. Medical exemption ia available. Cars with window tint that are considered illegal can apply for a waiver between June 30, 1992 and Jan 1, 1993.

Illinois
NO / NO / ANY / ANY* / 1984 ?

Note : If window tint is applied to the rear-back window, a right and left rear-view mirrors are required. Cars before 1982 model year are exempt from IL tint law.

Indiana
30% Film / 30% Film / ANY / 30% Film / 1995

Note : Darker tint is allowed for medical reason only as attested to by medical doctor or eye doctor.

Enforcement Note : Out-of-state motorist can be ticketed for being in violation of IN tint law but are usually left alone. Law enforcement usually enforces the tint law on the front side windows. Most law enforcement do not know that the rear-back window is included in the law. Some local towns will fine motorist $200 for violation as well as requiring them to fix it.

Legislation: HB1282 which will basically outlaw window tint. It would ban any tint that would go beyond Federal Standards which is 70% visible light transmission. Violation would fall under an enhanced penalty of a Class B infraction which has a max fine of $1000.

Iowa
AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / Unknown

Note : A pending bill in the legislature would mandate light transmission on all windows of at least 70% (Basically no aftermarket tint allowed). Puts the federal window tint regulation into state law.

Enforcement Note : Iowa is spotty on enforcement but can enforce the law against out-of-state motorist such as writing a fix-it ticket.

Kansas
AS-1 / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1987

Kentucky
AS-1 / 35% Film / 18% Film / 18% Film / 1988

Note : MPV Vehicles can have 8% Film behind the front side doors.

Louisiana
AS-1 / 40% Net / 25% Net / 12% Net / 199x

Maine
NO / 50% Film / 50% Film / 50% Film / 198x

Enforcement Note : As the law is read, it can be applied to out-of-state cars. A car with tint that is more dark than allowed by the state can fail safety ispection.

Maryland
NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1993

Massachusetts
NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net

Enforcement Note : People with 35% tint have been given tickets for tinting due to light meters reading less than 35% since car glass can have from 70% to 90% window tint.

Michigan
4 inches / 4 inches / ANY / ANY / 198x

Note : Changes to the law has been discussed such as allowing for 35% tint on the front side windows but the State Police would push hard for a complete ban on tint if it got through and they have the political power to do it.

Enforcement Note : Michigan State police will give the 3rd degree look to any car that is not in compliance with MI tint law but will usually leave out-of-state motorist alone.

Minnesota
NO / 50% Film / 50% Film / 50% Film / 198x

Note : Darker tint is allowed with Medical Exemption.

Mississippi
AS-1 / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1989

Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be a reason for failing the yearly state safety inspection.

Missouri
AS-1 / 35% Net / Any / Any / 2002

Enforcement Note : New law removed out-of-state exemption but don't know how the MO State Highway Patrol will deal with that ?

Tint is NO LONGER part of the State Safety Inspection, a plus for MO residents.

Additional Note: Took effect Feb 14, 2002. Original law banned tint on the front side windows but allowed anything behind and then changed in 2001 for 35% NET on ALL windows and in 2002 changed to 35% NET on front side windows but once again, anything behind goes !

Montana
AS-1 / 24% Net / 14% Net / 14% Net / 1991

Note : MPV Vehicles windows behind the front doors are exempt from tint law. Cars before Oct 1, 1991 that were registered in Montana and had tint that would be considered illegal under the law can continue to have any kind of window tint but the registration must indicate a tinted window waiver and the waiver can no longer be applied for. Those who have waviers can continue to use them and when the car is sold, the waiver is good for the next owner.

A permit for dark tint can be applied for if needed for security or medical reasons.

Enforcement Note : Montana Law enforcement is lax on enforcing the tint law but there is a heavy fine if enforced and maybe required to be fixed.

Nebraska
AS-1 / 35% Film / 20% Film / 20% Film / 199x

Nevada
AS-1 / 35% Film / ANY / ANY / 1993

Note : There is a medical exemption for the tint law.

Enforcement Note : Tint law does not apply to 1993 or older model cars that had tint applied before July 1, 1993.

New Hampshire
NO / NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 198x

Enforcement Note : Having illegal tint can mean the failure of the state safety inspection.

New Jersey
NO / NO / ANY / ANY / 198x

Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be the reason for failing state safety inspection.

New Mexico
AS-1 / 20% Net / 20-% Net / 20-% Net / 1997

Note : Local law takes precedence over state law. The most liberal tint law in the country. MPV, trucks, buses can have anything behind the front side windows. Tint done before Jul 1, 1997 is exempt from the law.

New York
NO / NO/ NO/ NO / 1993

Note : Very strict law. Replacement glass that is tinted is allowed if and only if the original windows were tinted as well. Medical exemption is provided for with permission from Commisioner of Motor Vehicles.

North Carolina
AS-1 / 32% Net / 32% Net / 32% Net / 1996

Enforcement Note : Illegal tint is a reson to fail state safety inspection. Out-of-state cars must be in compliance with tint law in the state where registered.

North Dakota
AS-1 / NO / ANY* / ANY* / 1989

Note : If windows behind the front side doors are tinted, a right and left outside rear view mirror is required.

Enforcement Note : The tint law may be applied to non-resident cars as written.

Ohio
5 inches / 50% Film / ANY* / ANY* / 2004

Note : Director of Ohio DPS determines what degree of tint that is legal on motor vehicles in Ohio. The tint law has been known to be enforced on out-of-state cars in some towns.

Revised from 50% on all windows before. Mirrors on both sides are required for the dark tint.

Oklahoma
Before 1996 Model Year :
AS-1 or 5 inches / 25% Net / 10% Net* / 10% Net* / 1995

1996 Model Year and after :
AS-1 or 5 inches / 25% Net / 25% Net / 25% Net / 1995

Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt from the tint law. Outside right and left rear view mirrors are required if tint is darker than 25% net for pre-1996 vehicles. Law enforcement and government owned vehicles are exempt.

Oregon
6 inches / 50% Film & 35% Net / 50% Film & 35% Net / 50% Film & 35% Net / 1996

Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt as long as they are in compliance with FMVSS 205.

Government and Law Enforcement vehicles are exempt from the tint law. If ordinary people are required to obey this law, it should definitely apply to government and law enforcement vehicles.

Enforcement Note : Tint Law may be applied to out-of-state vehicles.

Pennsylvania
NO / NO / NO / NO / 1996 for 1998 model year and after NO / NO / ANY / ANY before 1998 Model Year

Enforcement Note : Illegal tint on cars can be a reason to be failed in the state safety inspection which was struck down in court.

Rhode Island
NO / NO / NO / NO / 1993

Note : MPV's are exempt on windows behind the front side windows but the windows must comply to FMVSS 205 which is usually 30% VLT.

Government and Law Enforcement vehicles are exempt from the tint law. If ordinary people are required to obey this law, it should definitely apply to government and law enforcement vehicles.

South Carolina
UnDef / 27% Net / ANY / *27% Net / 1993

Special Note : If the rear-back window was tinted darker than 27% VLT before 1/1/93, it continues to be legal as long as it is the original tint. There was also a bill to require 50% VLT on front side windows and rear-back effective 1/1/99. If the Rear-back window was done before 1/1/99, it must have at least 27% VLT. It never got out of committee but with many sponsors, it can be counted on to be back.

South Dakota
Undef / 26% Net / ANY / 11% Net / 1991 ?

Note : The defined numbers include an enforcement tolerance of 9%. The numbers are the absolute darkest that is allowed. Violation is a Class 2 Misdemeanor.

Tennessee
NO / 35% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 198x

Note : MPV's and SUV's can have darker tint behind the front side doors such as extended cab trucks.

Texas
Before 1988 Model Year:
AS-1 / 35% Film / 20% Film / 20% Film / 1988

1988 Model Year and after :
AS-1 / 35% Film / 35% Film / 20% Film / 1988

Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be the reason for failing state safety inspection. State DPS carry light meters especially around the Mexican Border.

Utah
NO / 43% Net / ANY / ANY / 2002

Note : Previous laws allowed only 28% tint behind and prior, nonthing was allowed on the front side windows and anything behind.

Enforcement Note : Illegal tint can be a reason to fail safety inspection. The tint law can be enforced on out-of-state cars. Violation is a Class C misdemeanor.

Vermont
AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / 198x

Enforcement Note : Tint law can be applied to out-of-state registered cars. The fine is $120.50 with no points.

Virginia
AS-1 / 43% Net / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1993

Enforcement Note : Tint law may technically be applied to out-of-state registered cars. There is HB 1563 which would make the law apply to VA registered cars only. The bill did not pass. VA State Police opinion on out-of-state cars with tint that does not comply with VA law.

Washington
6 inches / 32% Film / 32% Film / 32% Film / 1989

Note : MPV Windows behind the front side doors are exempt.

Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-Washington registered vehicles.

West Virginia
AS1 or 5 inches/ 35% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1991 ?

Wisconsin
NO / 50% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1996

Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt. The new tint regulation is defined under the Tran-305 administrative rule.

Enforcement Note : Tint regulation applies to non-Wisconsin registered vehicles but out-of-state motorist are normally left alone for tint.

Additional Notes : 2 demerit points are assessed for tinted window violation. Revisions to the regulation is being considered this fall and comments can be sent to B. Bird at the Wisconsin DOT. One of the proposed revisions is exempting out-of-state cars that are temporarily in Wisconsin such as tourist.

Wyoming
AS-1 / 28% Net / 28% Net / 28% Net / 1997

Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt. There is a medical exemption which allows for window film as dark as 25% light transmission.

I came across a newspaper article located at Laramie County Community College. The article which mentions the new law.

Alberta
15cm / NO / ANY / ANY / ????

British Columbia
7.5 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / ????

Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-residents.

Manitoba
15 cm / 45% Net / 30% Net / 30% Net / 19??

New Brunswick
NO / NO / ANY / ANY / 19??

New Foundland
15 cm / Vague / ANY / ANY / 19??

Northwest Territories
NO / NO / ?? / ?? / 19??

Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-residents.

Nova Scotia
NO / NO / NO / NO / 19??

Ontario
Vague / Vague / ANY / ANY / 198x

Note : Has vague law. Law simply says that the windshield and front side windows cannot be tinted to the extent that people and contents inside cannot easily be identified from the outside.

Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-residents.

Prince Edward Island
15 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / 19??

Quebec
15 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / ????

Enforcement Note : Tint law may apply to non-residents.

Saskatchewan
15 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / 19??

Source: http://home.pcisys.net/~bpc/auto_law/tint/

**atruhondagrl** · 10-28-2006, 09:58 AM

This was a great find. I feel that the information has broad enough coverage that it should be stickied. As far as the info contained in it is concerned, should anyone know of a legal update to this law, could you please post it with the judicial code and/or jurisdiction presiding over it (state/county/parish/municiple/etc). Thank you.

Also, here is a graph showing all the state laws for those folks who don't want to read through all of that :

http://www.tintdude.com/laws.html

I've also included a PDF format of a similar chart

si_civic · 10-28-2006, 10:07 AM

Great find! I will try to find more stats about British Columbia. Back rear windows and rear window are unlimited. You can't have your side windows TINTED AT ALL.. no matter what. Not even 75%. The police say "it's a safety hazard... if you were passed out in the car, and the doors were locked, the side window is the only way in.... having tint prevents the side window from breaking properly."

Makes a lot of sense, but cmon.

**atruhondagrl** · 10-28-2006, 10:15 AM

I agree. The cops here claim saftey hazard here as well. They say they can't see what people in the car are doing when they approach the window. Here's my complaint though, how many thugs are riding around in two door coupes? Everytime I venture down to Philly or NYC, I see the folks that usually get profiled cruising around in 4dr sedans and SUVs. Really now. Give me a break. The SUVs all seem to come with friggin' limo tint. But it's okay because thats factory tint? Please.

It's like loud as sin Harley's. It's stock so they can. But lord have mercy should a Honda with a fart can flabber by. They throw on the lights and sirens like someone just robbed a 7/11.

**2fast4u2** · 10-28-2006, 10:18 AM

Nice post jc21! Definately sticky material. +rep :)

I see what Wisconsin law is: NO / 50% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1996

Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt. The new tint regulation is defined under the Tran-305 administrative rule.

Enforcement Note : Tint regulation applies to non-Wisconsin registered vehicles but out-of-state motorist are normally left alone for tint.

Additional Notes : 2 demerit points are assessed for tinted window violation. Revisions to the regulation is being considered this fall and comments can be sent to B. Bird at the Wisconsin DOT. One of the proposed revisions is exempting out-of-state cars that are temporarily in Wisconsin such as tourist.

I'll just tell them I'm a tourist.

TRY2HNG · 11-24-2006, 12:06 AM

Just a FYI for maine tint laws.... I live in southern Maine and the posted law applies to cars only!!! If you own a x-cab truck, SUV or van the front side windows fall under the State Law. But all the rear and back windows can be as dark as you want. This was put into place due to the number of new vehicles with dark tint from the factory on rear windows. Either way if you have tint you must show a certificate from a licenced tint shop for state inspection..

Civic_Si · 11-26-2006, 12:58 PM

You're only allowed to tint the back if you've got a passenger side mirror in BC

DJFriar · 01-03-2007, 05:14 AM

I don't think the texas info is accurate:

Texas
Before 1988 Model Year:
AS-1 / 35% Film / 20% Film / 20% Film / 1988

1988 Model Year and after :
AS-1 / 35% Film / 35% Film / 20% Film / 1988

Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be the reason for failing state safety inspection. State DPS carry light meters especially around the Mexican Border.

Multiple inspection places have said the rear glass can be up to 0% and that front side glass can be up to 25%. I know a trooper can pull you over for less than 35%, but it will pass inspection up to 25%. When I had my truck tinted, the tint place said they have to put a little sticker in the drivers window that is visible from outside the car that is only visible if the tint is legal. My fronts were done at 28% cause that was the closest to 25 he could get. The rears were done to 9%.

Also, my Sedan Si came with 35% all around, and I'm making them redo it, and they haven't said anything.

Lastly, TintDude.com shows the following for Texas:

TX 25% 25% ANY% AS1 OR 5" NET

cojaro · 03-07-2007, 03:14 PM

What I read in the TN laws (the government site, state laws et al. It was a bitch to navigate through) The front windshield can have 70% (which is partically nothing) and the strip on the front windshield can be as dark as 5%.

***jpik2003*** · 04-08-2007, 03:14 AM

Damn IL tint laws. Why can't we be more like FL.

nothingfancy · 04-23-2007, 04:24 AM

notice how California is like the most restrictive ><
sucks...

rcracin13 · 04-26-2007, 11:42 AM

not as restrictive as new york. that shit says no/no/no/no. that has definitely changed though.

ap07civic · 05-26-2007, 01:26 AM

I live in Newfoundland , Canada ,and my coupe had tints that are well over the legal limit... but the police here just dont care , so if u live in NL, dont worry about it (lol) :)

spoofy · 07-29-2007, 10:17 PM

cali is so strict

ElMartilloGordo · 08-28-2007, 05:31 PM

http://www.tintcenter.com/laws/NY/

***GETxERxDONE*** · 08-28-2007, 06:51 PM

cool, but the legal brow in Alabama is 5" not 6. so says the place i got my tint done.

tolgaSI · 09-10-2007, 04:46 AM

crap! Is there a place on earth where car modification, whether is engine or not, is legal!?

Chrisrc86 · 09-10-2007, 10:22 AM

Does anyone know the details on Tail light tint in georgia?
Ive been hearing its ok as long as its not too dark.
I see people with it all the time, but never seen anyone pulled over with it.

jjohan35 · 09-12-2007, 01:46 AM

I believe the California restrictions are inaccurate as well. Cop told me 70% front side windows, 4 inch windshield, and any color for rear windshield and rear doors.

10-28-2006, 10:15 AM	#4 (permalink)
atruhondagrl Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 21,330 iTrader: 13 / 100%	I agree. The cops here claim saftey hazard here as well. They say they can't see what people in the car are doing when they approach the window. Here's my complaint though, how many thugs are riding around in two door coupes? Everytime I venture down to Philly or NYC, I see the folks that usually get profiled cruising around in 4dr sedans and SUVs. Really now. Give me a break. The SUVs all seem to come with friggin' limo tint. But it's okay because thats factory tint? Please. It's like loud as sin Harley's. It's stock so they can. But lord have mercy should a Honda with a fart can flabber by. They throw on the lights and sirens like someone just robbed a 7/11. __________________ “The things you own end up owning you.” Visit my mini-city.

10-27-2006, 04:46 PM	#1 (permalink)
jc21 Senior Member Join Date: May 2006 Location: Chicago/Lincoln Park Age: 23 Posts: 1,220 I Like Cheese iTrader: 2 / 100%	Disclaimer: The author is not responsible for any mistakes or misinformation. The user may use the information at their own risk and the writer is not responsible for problems arrising from the use of this document. WARNING !!!!! Window Tint reference are for personal use by individuals, tint business, or for educational use. Government officials are prohibited from using this reference related to the enactment of window tint laws or regulations, changing current window tint laws or regulations without EXPRESS permission of the author, Brad Cuppy - Mail me. USE AT YOUR OWN RISK !!!!!! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Percentage Numbers represent amount of light transmission. Example : 35% means 35% light transmission. Also known as VLT or Visible Light Transmission. Film - Amount of light that is required to pass through window film. Example : 35% Film means that the film must pass through at least 35% visible light. Net - Amount of light that is required to pass both the car window and the tint film. MPV - A vehicle such as a recreation vehicle such as a pickup truck including GMC Suburbans, Nissan Pathfinders, Extra Cab Trucks When info is given, it is in the format of : Windshield / Front Side Windows / Rear Side Windows / Rear-Back Window / Year Passed Where : NO - No Film is Allowed ANY - Any degree of tinting is allowed AS-1 - On the windshield, there is a mark that says "AS-1" toward the top that defines that the tint cannot go below. UnDef - Nothing defined in the law. FMVSS 205 - A regulation that is found in the Code of Federal Regulation. The regulation is found in 49 CFR 571.205 35 % Film - Light that is measured on the film alone 35 % Net - Light that is measured both through the film and car window Example 4 inches / 35 % Film / 15 % Net / 5 % Net / 1994 A tint brow on the windshield cannot go no lower than 4 inches, 35% film may be applied to the front side windows, 15% light must go through the combined window film and windows for the rear side windows and 5 % light transmission is required on the rear back window and film combined. The year 1994 is the year that the law went into effect. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alabama 6 inches / 35% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1996 Note : MPV Vehicles are exempt behind the front side doors. Alaska 5 inches / NO / 40% Net / 40% Net / 1994 Note : MPV Vehicles can have any degree of tinting behind the front side doors so long as they comply with FMVSS 205. Mirrored tint is prohibited. Enforcement Note : Tint regulation does apply to non-Alaska registered vehicles. State Troopers write fix-it tickets which requires "repair" within 5 days and the City of Anchorage will write $150 tickets for the violation. Arizona UnDef / 35% Film / ANY / ANY / 198? Arkansas UnDef / 25% Net / 25% Net / 10% Net / 1994 Note : MPV's are allowed 10% Net tint on rear side windows Enforcement Note : Tint law applies only to AR registered vehicles and vehicles from other states that have NO tint law which is now moot since all 50 states have some type of tint law with Wyoming being the last to pass a tint law. California NO / NO / ANY / ANY* / 1987 ? Note : If the rear-back window is tinted, left and right rear-view mirrors are required. Medical exemption allows for tint or other shading material is allowed on the front side doors if it allows at least 35% of the light to go through, readily is removable and cannot be used at night. Enforcement Note : Out-of-State cars driven in California are required to be in compliance with the CA Tint law. Colorado 2 Phase Law: 4 inches or AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / 1989 4 inches or AS-1 / 27% Net / 27% Net / 27% Net / 1989 Note : No mirrored tint is allowed. Enforcement Note : The fine for being in violation is $50 and the driver is not usually required to fix the windows. Tint shops are not allowed to tint cars beyond state law. State patrol carries light meters along with some local towns but they don't worry about window tinting unless it is very dark such as limo tint (5%). Connecticut Complex / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1995 Note : MPV Vehicle windows behind the front side doors are exempt so long as they meet FMVSS 205. The Windshield can have a tint strip at the top. The amount is determined by a complex formula as defined in Sec 14-99g, Subsection C, part 11 as written by an East Coast lawyer. Delaware AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / 199? District of Columbia NO / NO / 50% Net / 50% Net / 1994 Enforcement Note : Can apply to out-of-state motorist, no out-of-state exemption defined in statute. Florida AS-1 / 28% Net / 15% Net / 15% Net / 198? Note : MPV Vehicles windows behind the front side doors must allow for 6 % Net light transmission. Enforcement Note : Law enforced by the use of light meters and can apply to out-of-state motorist. Georgia NO / 32% Net / 32% Net / 32% Net / 2005 Note : New law went into effect that can be enforced on out of state vehicles as well as Georgia registered vehicles. Penalty is up to $1000 and/or 12 months in jail as a misdemeanor. On Jun 8, 2004, the Georgia Surpreme Court threw out GA's tint law since it discriminated against GA residents by not applying to non-residents. Look for the non-resident exemption to be repealed next year which would reinstate the tint law. This can have ramifications for other states who exempt non-residents from their tint laws. Legislation was sponsored in the 2004 session to remove the non-resident exemption but failed to pass. Guam ANY / ANY / ANY / ANY / 1978/9 Note : It was illegal to have tint but the tint law was declared unconstitutional as noted in the court decision part. Hawaii NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 198x Enforcement Note : Illegal tint on cars can be a reason to be failed in the state safety inspection. Idaho AS-1 / 35% Film / ANY / 35% Film / 1993 Note : Mirrored tint is illegal. Medical exemption ia available. Cars with window tint that are considered illegal can apply for a waiver between June 30, 1992 and Jan 1, 1993. Illinois NO / NO / ANY / ANY* / 1984 ? Note : If window tint is applied to the rear-back window, a right and left rear-view mirrors are required. Cars before 1982 model year are exempt from IL tint law. Indiana 30% Film / 30% Film / ANY / 30% Film / 1995 Note : Darker tint is allowed for medical reason only as attested to by medical doctor or eye doctor. Enforcement Note : Out-of-state motorist can be ticketed for being in violation of IN tint law but are usually left alone. Law enforcement usually enforces the tint law on the front side windows. Most law enforcement do not know that the rear-back window is included in the law. Some local towns will fine motorist $200 for violation as well as requiring them to fix it. Legislation: HB1282 which will basically outlaw window tint. It would ban any tint that would go beyond Federal Standards which is 70% visible light transmission. Violation would fall under an enhanced penalty of a Class B infraction which has a max fine of $1000. Iowa AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / Unknown Note : A pending bill in the legislature would mandate light transmission on all windows of at least 70% (Basically no aftermarket tint allowed). Puts the federal window tint regulation into state law. Enforcement Note : Iowa is spotty on enforcement but can enforce the law against out-of-state motorist such as writing a fix-it ticket. Kansas AS-1 / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1987 Kentucky AS-1 / 35% Film / 18% Film / 18% Film / 1988 Note : MPV Vehicles can have 8% Film behind the front side doors. Louisiana AS-1 / 40% Net / 25% Net / 12% Net / 199x Maine NO / 50% Film / 50% Film / 50% Film / 198x Enforcement Note : As the law is read, it can be applied to out-of-state cars. A car with tint that is more dark than allowed by the state can fail safety ispection. Maryland NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1993 Massachusetts NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net Enforcement Note : People with 35% tint have been given tickets for tinting due to light meters reading less than 35% since car glass can have from 70% to 90% window tint. Michigan 4 inches / 4 inches / ANY / ANY / 198x Note : Changes to the law has been discussed such as allowing for 35% tint on the front side windows but the State Police would push hard for a complete ban on tint if it got through and they have the political power to do it. Enforcement Note : Michigan State police will give the 3rd degree look to any car that is not in compliance with MI tint law but will usually leave out-of-state motorist alone. Minnesota NO / 50% Film / 50% Film / 50% Film / 198x Note : Darker tint is allowed with Medical Exemption. Mississippi AS-1 / 35% Net / 35% Net / 35% Net / 1989 Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be a reason for failing the yearly state safety inspection. Missouri AS-1 / 35% Net / Any / Any / 2002 Enforcement Note : New law removed out-of-state exemption but don't know how the MO State Highway Patrol will deal with that ? Tint is NO LONGER part of the State Safety Inspection, a plus for MO residents. Additional Note: Took effect Feb 14, 2002. Original law banned tint on the front side windows but allowed anything behind and then changed in 2001 for 35% NET on ALL windows and in 2002 changed to 35% NET on front side windows but once again, anything behind goes ! Montana AS-1 / 24% Net / 14% Net / 14% Net / 1991 Note : MPV Vehicles windows behind the front doors are exempt from tint law. Cars before Oct 1, 1991 that were registered in Montana and had tint that would be considered illegal under the law can continue to have any kind of window tint but the registration must indicate a tinted window waiver and the waiver can no longer be applied for. Those who have waviers can continue to use them and when the car is sold, the waiver is good for the next owner. A permit for dark tint can be applied for if needed for security or medical reasons. Enforcement Note : Montana Law enforcement is lax on enforcing the tint law but there is a heavy fine if enforced and maybe required to be fixed. Nebraska AS-1 / 35% Film / 20% Film / 20% Film / 199x Nevada AS-1 / 35% Film / ANY / ANY / 1993 Note : There is a medical exemption for the tint law. Enforcement Note : Tint law does not apply to 1993 or older model cars that had tint applied before July 1, 1993. New Hampshire NO / NO / 35% Net / 35% Net / 198x Enforcement Note : Having illegal tint can mean the failure of the state safety inspection. New Jersey NO / NO / ANY / ANY / 198x Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be the reason for failing state safety inspection. New Mexico AS-1 / 20% Net / 20-% Net / 20-% Net / 1997 Note : Local law takes precedence over state law. The most liberal tint law in the country. MPV, trucks, buses can have anything behind the front side windows. Tint done before Jul 1, 1997 is exempt from the law. New York NO / NO/ NO/ NO / 1993 Note : Very strict law. Replacement glass that is tinted is allowed if and only if the original windows were tinted as well. Medical exemption is provided for with permission from Commisioner of Motor Vehicles. North Carolina AS-1 / 32% Net / 32% Net / 32% Net / 1996 Enforcement Note : Illegal tint is a reson to fail state safety inspection. Out-of-state cars must be in compliance with tint law in the state where registered. North Dakota AS-1 / NO / ANY* / ANY* / 1989 Note : If windows behind the front side doors are tinted, a right and left outside rear view mirror is required. Enforcement Note : The tint law may be applied to non-resident cars as written. Ohio 5 inches / 50% Film / ANY* / ANY* / 2004 Note : Director of Ohio DPS determines what degree of tint that is legal on motor vehicles in Ohio. The tint law has been known to be enforced on out-of-state cars in some towns. Revised from 50% on all windows before. Mirrors on both sides are required for the dark tint. Oklahoma Before 1996 Model Year : AS-1 or 5 inches / 25% Net / 10% Net* / 10% Net* / 1995 1996 Model Year and after : AS-1 or 5 inches / 25% Net / 25% Net / 25% Net / 1995 Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt from the tint law. Outside right and left rear view mirrors are required if tint is darker than 25% net for pre-1996 vehicles. Law enforcement and government owned vehicles are exempt. Oregon 6 inches / 50% Film & 35% Net / 50% Film & 35% Net / 50% Film & 35% Net / 1996 Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt as long as they are in compliance with FMVSS 205. Government and Law Enforcement vehicles are exempt from the tint law. If ordinary people are required to obey this law, it should definitely apply to government and law enforcement vehicles. Enforcement Note : Tint Law may be applied to out-of-state vehicles. Pennsylvania NO / NO / NO / NO / 1996 for 1998 model year and after NO / NO / ANY / ANY before 1998 Model Year Enforcement Note : Illegal tint on cars can be a reason to be failed in the state safety inspection which was struck down in court. Rhode Island NO / NO / NO / NO / 1993 Note : MPV's are exempt on windows behind the front side windows but the windows must comply to FMVSS 205 which is usually 30% VLT. Government and Law Enforcement vehicles are exempt from the tint law. If ordinary people are required to obey this law, it should definitely apply to government and law enforcement vehicles. South Carolina UnDef / 27% Net / ANY / *27% Net / 1993 Special Note : If the rear-back window was tinted darker than 27% VLT before 1/1/93, it continues to be legal as long as it is the original tint. There was also a bill to require 50% VLT on front side windows and rear-back effective 1/1/99. If the Rear-back window was done before 1/1/99, it must have at least 27% VLT. It never got out of committee but with many sponsors, it can be counted on to be back. South Dakota Undef / 26% Net / ANY / 11% Net / 1991 ? Note : The defined numbers include an enforcement tolerance of 9%. The numbers are the absolute darkest that is allowed. Violation is a Class 2 Misdemeanor. Tennessee NO / 35% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 198x Note : MPV's and SUV's can have darker tint behind the front side doors such as extended cab trucks. Texas Before 1988 Model Year: AS-1 / 35% Film / 20% Film / 20% Film / 1988 1988 Model Year and after : AS-1 / 35% Film / 35% Film / 20% Film / 1988 Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be the reason for failing state safety inspection. State DPS carry light meters especially around the Mexican Border. Utah NO / 43% Net / ANY / ANY / 2002 Note : Previous laws allowed only 28% tint behind and prior, nonthing was allowed on the front side windows and anything behind. Enforcement Note : Illegal tint can be a reason to fail safety inspection. The tint law can be enforced on out-of-state cars. Violation is a Class C misdemeanor. Vermont AS-1 / NO / ANY / ANY / 198x Enforcement Note : Tint law can be applied to out-of-state registered cars. The fine is $120.50 with no points. Virginia AS-1 / 43% Net / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1993 Enforcement Note : Tint law may technically be applied to out-of-state registered cars. There is HB 1563 which would make the law apply to VA registered cars only. The bill did not pass. VA State Police opinion on out-of-state cars with tint that does not comply with VA law. Washington 6 inches / 32% Film / 32% Film / 32% Film / 1989 Note : MPV Windows behind the front side doors are exempt. Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-Washington registered vehicles. West Virginia AS1 or 5 inches/ 35% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1991 ? Wisconsin NO / 50% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1996 Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt. The new tint regulation is defined under the Tran-305 administrative rule. Enforcement Note : Tint regulation applies to non-Wisconsin registered vehicles but out-of-state motorist are normally left alone for tint. Additional Notes : 2 demerit points are assessed for tinted window violation. Revisions to the regulation is being considered this fall and comments can be sent to B. Bird at the Wisconsin DOT. One of the proposed revisions is exempting out-of-state cars that are temporarily in Wisconsin such as tourist. Wyoming AS-1 / 28% Net / 28% Net / 28% Net / 1997 Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt. There is a medical exemption which allows for window film as dark as 25% light transmission. I came across a newspaper article located at Laramie County Community College. The article which mentions the new law. Alberta 15cm / NO / ANY / ANY / ???? British Columbia 7.5 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / ???? Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-residents. Manitoba 15 cm / 45% Net / 30% Net / 30% Net / 19?? New Brunswick NO / NO / ANY / ANY / 19?? New Foundland 15 cm / Vague / ANY / ANY / 19?? Northwest Territories NO / NO / ?? / ?? / 19?? Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-residents. Nova Scotia NO / NO / NO / NO / 19?? Ontario Vague / Vague / ANY / ANY / 198x Note : Has vague law. Law simply says that the windshield and front side windows cannot be tinted to the extent that people and contents inside cannot easily be identified from the outside. Enforcement Note : Tint law applies to non-residents. Prince Edward Island 15 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / 19?? Quebec 15 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / ???? Enforcement Note : Tint law may apply to non-residents. Saskatchewan 15 cm / NO / ANY / ANY / 19?? Source: http://home.pcisys.net/~bpc/auto_law/tint/

10-28-2006, 10:07 AM	#3 (permalink)
si_civic Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: B.C. ,Canada Age: 30 Posts: 4,592 A/Cst.D.F.Abate iTrader: 10 / 100%	Great find! I will try to find more stats about British Columbia. Back rear windows and rear window are unlimited. You can't have your side windows TINTED AT ALL.. no matter what. Not even 75%. The police say "it's a safety hazard... if you were passed out in the car, and the doors were locked, the side window is the only way in.... having tint prevents the side window from breaking properly." Makes a lot of sense, but cmon.

10-28-2006, 10:18 AM	#5 (permalink)
2fast4u2 Ninja Admin Join Date: Jun 2005 Posts: 12,515 8thcivic.com member #15 iTrader: 9 / 100%	Nice post jc21! Definately sticky material. +rep :) I see what Wisconsin law is: NO / 50% Film / 35% Film / 35% Film / 1996 Note : MPV windows behind the front side doors are exempt. The new tint regulation is defined under the Tran-305 administrative rule. Enforcement Note : Tint regulation applies to non-Wisconsin registered vehicles but out-of-state motorist are normally left alone for tint. Additional Notes : 2 demerit points are assessed for tinted window violation. Revisions to the regulation is being considered this fall and comments can be sent to B. Bird at the Wisconsin DOT. One of the proposed revisions is exempting out-of-state cars that are temporarily in Wisconsin such as tourist. I'll just tell them I'm a tourist.

11-24-2006, 12:06 AM	#6 (permalink)
TRY2HNG Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Southern Maine Coast Age: 35 Posts: 123 iTrader: 1 / 100%	Just a FYI for maine tint laws.... I live in southern Maine and the posted law applies to cars only!!! If you own a x-cab truck, SUV or van the front side windows fall under the State Law. But all the rear and back windows can be as dark as you want. This was put into place due to the number of new vehicles with dark tint from the factory on rear windows. Either way if you have tint you must show a certificate from a licenced tint shop for state inspection..

11-26-2006, 12:58 PM	#7 (permalink)
Civic_Si Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Victoria, BC, CANADA! Posts: 296 iTrader: 0 / 0%	You're only allowed to tint the back if you've got a passenger side mirror in BC

01-03-2007, 05:14 AM	#8 (permalink)
DJFriar Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Little Elm, TX Age: 27 Posts: 57 iTrader: 0 / 0%	I don't think the texas info is accurate: Texas Before 1988 Model Year: AS-1 / 35% Film / 20% Film / 20% Film / 1988 1988 Model Year and after : AS-1 / 35% Film / 35% Film / 20% Film / 1988 Enforcement Note : Illegal window tint can be the reason for failing state safety inspection. State DPS carry light meters especially around the Mexican Border. Multiple inspection places have said the rear glass can be up to 0% and that front side glass can be up to 25%. I know a trooper can pull you over for less than 35%, but it will pass inspection up to 25%. When I had my truck tinted, the tint place said they have to put a little sticker in the drivers window that is visible from outside the car that is only visible if the tint is legal. My fronts were done at 28% cause that was the closest to 25 he could get. The rears were done to 9%. Also, my Sedan Si came with 35% all around, and I'm making them redo it, and they haven't said anything. Lastly, TintDude.com shows the following for Texas: TX 25% 25% ANY% AS1 OR 5" NET

03-07-2007, 03:14 PM	#9 (permalink)
cojaro Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Memphis Age: 20 Posts: 1,215 iTrader: 1 / 100%	What I read in the TN laws (the government site, state laws et al. It was a bitch to navigate through) The front windshield can have 70% (which is partically nothing) and the strip on the front windshield can be as dark as 5%.

04-08-2007, 03:14 AM	#10 (permalink)
*jpik2003* RAWRRR Join Date: May 2006 Location: Chicago Age: 20 Posts: 4,326 Jack iTrader: 0 / 0%	Damn IL tint laws. Why can't we be more like FL.

04-23-2007, 04:24 AM	#11 (permalink)
nothingfancy Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Fremont Posts: 124 Mark Chen iTrader: 0 / 0%	notice how California is like the most restrictive >< sucks...

04-26-2007, 11:42 AM	#12 (permalink)
rcracin13 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Queens, NYC Age: 20 Posts: 851 iTrader: 3 / 100%	not as restrictive as new york. that shit says no/no/no/no. that has definitely changed though.

05-26-2007, 01:26 AM	#13 (permalink)
ap07civic Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Posts: 66 iTrader: 0 / 0%	I live in Newfoundland , Canada ,and my coupe had tints that are well over the legal limit... but the police here just dont care , so if u live in NL, dont worry about it (lol) :)

07-29-2007, 10:17 PM	#14 (permalink)
spoofy Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: socal Posts: 117 iTrader: 2 / 100%	cali is so strict

08-28-2007, 05:31 PM	#15 (permalink)
ElMartilloGordo Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Bronx, NY Posts: 140 Gilbert Ortiz iTrader: 0 / 0%	http://www.tintcenter.com/laws/NY/

08-28-2007, 06:51 PM	#16 (permalink)
*GETxERxDONE* Student of Photography Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Birmingham, Alabama Age: 21 Posts: 6,415 Nichuma Ben Gabriel Ha Levi iTrader: 2 / 100%	cool, but the legal brow in Alabama is 5" not 6. so says the place i got my tint done.

09-10-2007, 04:46 AM	#17 (permalink)
tolgaSI Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 342 iTrader: 0 / 0%	crap! Is there a place on earth where car modification, whether is engine or not, is legal!?

09-10-2007, 10:22 AM	#18 (permalink)
Chrisrc86 Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Cumming, GA Age: 21 Posts: 50 Chris iTrader: 0 / 0%	Does anyone know the details on Tail light tint in georgia? Ive been hearing its ok as long as its not too dark. I see people with it all the time, but never seen anyone pulled over with it.

09-12-2007, 01:46 AM	#19 (permalink)
jjohan35 Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Posts: 107 iTrader: 0 / 0%	I believe the California restrictions are inaccurate as well. Cop told me 70% front side windows, 4 inch windshield, and any color for rear windshield and rear doors.

09-12-2007, 08:55 AM	#20 (permalink)
ElMartilloGordo Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Bronx, NY Posts: 140 Gilbert Ortiz iTrader: