Window tinting has become a popular choice among vehicle owners in New York, providing benefits such as enhanced privacy, reduced glare, and protection against harmful UV rays. However, understanding the legal framework surrounding window tinting is crucial for compliance and safety. This report aims to provide a detailed overview of New York's window tint laws, including the regulations on visible light transmission (VLT), reflection limits, medical exemptions, and the consequences of non-compliance.
1. Overview of New York Tint Laws
New York first enacted window tint laws in 1991, with significant amendments introduced in 2017. These laws are designed to ensure that drivers maintain adequate visibility while balancing the need for privacy and protection from sunlight. The primary measurement used to determine the legality of window tint is the Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which indicates the percentage of light that can pass through the tinted window.
2. Legal Tint Darkness Requirements
2.1 Passenger Vehicles (Sedans and Coupes)
For passenger vehicles, the following VLT requirements apply:
- Windshield: The top six inches can be tinted with any darkness using non-reflective tint. The remaining portion must allow more than 70% of light to pass through.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light to pass through.
- Rear Window: Any darkness is permitted, provided the vehicle has dual side mirrors.
2.2 SUVs and Vans
The regulations for SUVs and vans are slightly different:
- Windshield: Similar to sedans, the top six inches can be tinted with any darkness, while the rest must allow more than 70% of light.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness is permitted.
- Rear Window: Any darkness is permitted.
3. Tint Reflection Regulations
In addition to darkness, New York tint laws also restrict the level of reflection in window tints. The following guidelines apply:
- Front Side Windows: No mirrored or metallic appearance is allowed.
- Back Side Windows: No mirrored or metallic appearance is allowed.
These restrictions are in place to prevent glare that could impair the visibility of other drivers on the road, thereby enhancing overall road safety.
4. Medical Exemptions
New York law provides for medical exemptions for individuals who have specific medical conditions that require protection from sunlight. Qualifying conditions include:
- Albinism
- Chronic actinic dermatitis
- Dermatomyositis
- Lupus erythematosus
- Porphyria
- Xeroderma pigmentosum
- Severe photosensitivity due to other medical conditions.
To obtain a medical exemption, individuals must complete the Application for Tinted Window Exemption (MV-80W), which requires a physician's signature. This exemption allows for darker tints than typically permitted under standard regulations.
5. Compliance and Certification
5.1 Certification and Stickers
While manufacturers of window tint film in New York are not required to certify their products, vehicle owners must place a tint certification sticker on each tinted window. This sticker should be located between the window glass and the tint film, serving as a legal identification of the tint's compliance with state laws.
5.2 Annual Inspections
All vehicles registered in New York must undergo annual safety inspections, which now include a check for compliance with window tint laws. Inspectors use light transmittance meters to measure the VLT of each tinted window. If the tint is found to be illegal, the vehicle will fail the inspection, and the owner must rectify the issue before the vehicle can be registered.
6. Consequences of Non-Compliance
Violating New York's tint laws can lead to several consequences, including:
- Fines: The base fine for illegal window tint can be up to $150. Repeated offenses may result in fines increasing to $500.
- Cost of Tint Removal: Vehicle owners may be required to remove illegal tint, incurring additional costs.
- Impact on Insurance: Having illegal tint may affect insurance premiums and coverage.
- Points on Driving Record: Violations can lead to points on the driver's record, potentially affecting driving privileges.
- Negative Impact on Resale Value: Vehicles with illegal tint may have reduced resale value due to compliance issues.
7. Conclusion
Understanding New York's window tint laws is essential for vehicle owners who wish to enhance their driving experience while remaining compliant with state regulations. The laws are designed to balance the benefits of window tinting—such as privacy, UV protection, and glare reduction—with the need for safety on the roads. By adhering to the specified VLT limits, reflection restrictions, and certification requirements, vehicle owners can avoid fines and ensure their vehicles pass annual inspections.
As laws and regulations can change, it is advisable for vehicle owners to stay informed about any updates to New York's tint laws. Consulting with local DMV offices or professional tinting services can provide clarity and ensure compliance with the latest regulations.
References
- Auto Lovers Window Tinting. (n.d.). Auto Tint Law in New York State - Auto Lovers Window Tinting. https://www.autoloverstinting.com/auto-tint-law-in-new-york-state/
- Forever Tint. (n.d.). Legal Tint Exemption - New York - Forever Tint. https://forevertint.com/legal-tint-exemption-new-york/
- Loupe Detailing. (n.d.). What Are the Window Tint Laws in New York? https://loupedetailing.com/blog/new-york-window-tint-law/
- National Tinting Laws. (n.d.). New York Window Tint Laws (2024 Update) - National Tinting Laws. https://www.nationaltintinglaws.com/new-york-window-tint-laws/
- Tint Wiz. (n.d.). Vehicle Window Tint Laws By State [Updated 2025] - Tint Wiz. https://tintwiz.com/window-tint-laws-by-state
- Window Film Pros. (n.d.). New York Tint Laws - Great 2024 Update. https://windowfilmpros.com/window-tint-laws/new-york-tint-laws/