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How Much Is a Window Tint Ticket and Is Insurance Affected?

author-photoWritten by Preston Micalizio
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Preston Micalizio

Preston Micalizio writes insurance content for SmartFinancial. He brings three years of professional experience writing ...

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editor-photoEdited by Dan Marticio
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Dan Marticio

Dan Marticio is the content manager at SmartFinancial and has written 150+ articles across multiple insurance verticals....

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Updated October 17, 2024

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A window tint ticket typically won’t directly affect your car insurance rates, but this will depend on the insurer. However, if the fine goes unpaid and is sent to collections, it could impact your credit score and, in some states, indirectly raise your insurance premiums. Additionally, window tints, while useful for reducing glare and UV exposure, are regulated in every state due to their potential to limit visibility, and violating these regulations can result in fines of $200 or more.[1]

Keep reading to learn more about window tint regulations, how a ticket can impact you and how to handle one.

Key Takeaways

  • The measurement of window tinting allowed is determined by the visible light that passes through the window, and different states regulate how tinted your windows can be for each window.
  • If an unpaid window tint ticket goes to collections, it can negatively affect your credit score and may subsequently lead to an increase in your car insurance premium.
  • Tinted window violations won’t add points to your driving record but may impact insurance rates if you get too many tickets without addressing your tint levels.
  • A tinted window ticket can be dismissed if you show evidence the tint was removed or lessened to be within legal limits.
  • Some states may allow for a medical exception for higher than normally legal window tint, usually requiring a doctor’s note.

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How Is Window Tint Measured?

The level of tinting on a window is determined by how much light can pass through the tint, which is referred to as visible light transmission (VLT). The higher the VLT, the less light that can pass through the window. Auto professionals and law enforcement calculate the VLT using a specialized tint meter, which provides a percentage reading of the light that can pass through.

State laws decide the legality of window tint, with different states determining the acceptable legal VLT levels. State window tinting laws will also distinguish between the level of reflectivity allowed and the permitted VLT levels for each side of your car, with different VLT limits often applied for the front-facing windshield, rear windows and side windows. For example, Arizona allows for any percentage of tinting on a car’s rear window, but the neighboring state of New Mexico only allows for 20% VLT in the same spot.[2]

Here’s a quick breakdown of the different VLT levels and types allowed, alongside other restrictions for each state and Washington D.C. as of 2023:[2] Keep in mind that an AS-1 line is the line you see at the top of your windshield.[3]

State

Tint Length on Windshield

Tint VLT for Front Side / Back Side / Rear Windows

Restricted Colors

Alabama

6 inches

32% / 32% / 32%

  

Alaska

5 inches

70% / 40% / 40%

Red, yellow, amber

Arizona

To top of AS-1 line

33% / Any / Any

Red, amber

Arkansas

5 inches

25% / 25% / 10%

  

California

4 inches

70% / Any / Any

Red, amber, blue

Colorado

4 inches

27% / 27% / 27%

Red, amber

Connecticut

To top of AS-1 line

35% / 35% / Any

  

Delaware

To top of AS-1 line

70% / Any / Any

  

Florida

To top of AS-1 line

28% / 15% / 15%

  

Georgia

6 inches

32% / 32% / 32%

Red, amber

Hawaii

No inch requirement; only up to 30% tint

35% / 35% / 35%

  

Idaho

To top of AS-1 line

35% / 20% / 35%

  

Illinois

6 inches

35% / 35% / 35%

  

Indiana

To top of AS-1 line

30% / 30% / 30%

  

Iowa

To top of AS-1 line

70% / Any / Any

  

Kansas

To top of AS-1 line

35% / 35% / 35%

Red, amber, yellow

Kentucky

To top of AS-1 line

35% / 18% / 18%

  

Louisiana

To top of AS-1 line

40% / 25% / 12%

  

Maine

4 inches

35% / Any / Any

  

Maryland

5 inches

35% / 35% / 35%

Red, amber, yellow

Massachusetts

6 inches

35% / 35% / 35%

  

Michigan

4 inches

Any % but only 4 inches from top of window / Any / Any

  

Minnesota

Not allowed

50% / 50% / 50%

  

Mississippi

To top of AS-1 line

28% / 28% / 28%

  

Missouri

To top of AS-1 line

35% / Any / Any

  

Montana

To top of AS-1 line

24% / 14% / 14%

  

Nebraska

5 inches or to top of AS-1 line, whichever is first

35% / 20% / 20%

Red, amber, yellow

Nevada

To top of AS-1 line

35% / Any / Any

  

New Hampshire

6 inches

Not allowed / 35% / 35%

  

New Jersey

Not allowed

Not allowed / Any / Any

  

New Mexico

5 inches or to top of AS-1 line, whichever is first

20% / 20% / 20%

  

New York

6 inches

70% / 70% / Any

  

North Carolina

To top of AS-1 line

35% / 35% / 35%

Red, amber, yellow

North Dakota

Only up to 30% tint

50% / Any / Any

  

Ohio

Only up to 30% tint

50% / Any / Any

  

Oklahoma

5 inches or to top of AS-1 line, whichever is first

25% / 25% / 25%

  

Oregon

6 inches

35% / 35% / 35%

Red, green, yellow, black, amber

Pennsylvania

Not allowed

70% / 70% / 70%

  

Rhode Island

To top of AS-1 line

70% / 70% / 70%

  

South Carolina

To top of AS-1 line

27% / 27% / 27%

Red, amber, yellow

South Dakota

To top of AS-1 line

35% / 20% / 20%

  

Tennessee

To top of AS-1 line

35% / 35% / 35%

  

Texas

5 inches or to top of AS-1 line, whichever is first

25% / 25% / Any

Red, amber, blue

Utah

To top of AS-1 line

43% / Any / Any

  

Vermont

To top of AS-1 line

Not allowed / Any / Any

  

Virginia

To top of AS-1 line

50% / 35% / 35%

Red, amber, yellow

Washington

6 inches

24% / 24% / 24%

Red, green, yellow, black, amber

Washington D.C.

5 inches or to top of AS-1 line, whichever is first

70% / 50% or 35% for multi-purpose vehicles / 50% or 35% for multi-purpose vehicles

  

West Virginia

5 inches

35% / 35% / 35%

Red, amber, yellow

Wisconsin

To top of AS-1 line

50% / 35% / 35%

  

Wyoming

5 inches or to top of AS-1 line, whichever is first

28% / 28% / 28%

  

In addition, some states also have laws surrounding how reflective your tint can be, whether it can be metallic, and if you need dual side mirrors if you have back-tinted windows.[3] Take note that each state’s regulations can change each year, so check with your local laws or a local attorney to ensure your window tints meet legal requirements where you live.

What Is a Window Tint Ticket?

A tinted window ticket is a non-moving minor traffic violation, typically only resulting in a fine. Unlike a moving violation, like running a red light, a single window tint ticket typically won’t add points to your driving record.

Fortunately, you may only receive a verbal warning to have the tint film replaced or removed with no additional penalties or a “fix-it-ticket,” requiring you to correct the tint by a specific date to avoid or reduce a fine.

What Happens if You Get Pulled Over for Window Tint?

If you get pulled over, law enforcement may test the VLT levels of your window, and you may end up with a tinted window violation if your windows exceed the maximum VLT for the state or break some other regulation.

In addition, keep in mind that not all states provide exceptions for out-of-state drivers if their car has illegal window tinting according to local laws, so you could still end up with a ticket while traveling even if you meet your home state’s VLT requirements.[4] You could also be slapped with a window tint ticket if you’re pulled over for other reasons, such as speeding, and the officer decides to check your VLT.

How Much Is a Window Tint Ticket?

The fine for a window tint ticket will vary by state and will often depend on how many tickets you’ve received for window tints. For example, in California, you’ll often only receive a $25 fine for your first ticket, while an additional ticket could be around $200 in fines and potentially increase with each ticket you receive afterward before fixing the issue.[5]

Are There Medical Necessity Exemptions to Window Tint Laws?

Due to the protection that window tinting can offer from the sun, window tint laws occasionally allow for exemptions if medically necessary. Benson Varghese, a criminal defense attorney and founder of Varghese Summersett, notes, “If you have a medical condition that requires darker tints, you can apply for a medical exemption. I’ve had clients who suffer from conditions, like lupus or skin cancer get exemptions, but you need to have proper documentation from a doctor.”

Other conditions that might allow for a medical exemption can include:[5]

  • Albinism
  • Bloom Syndrome
  • Cockayne Syndrome
  • Erythropoietic Protoporphyria
  • Solar Urticaria
  • Xeroderma Pigmentosum

Keep in mind that not all states offer the same exemptions, and you should verify if you can get an exemption in your state before making any modifications to your window tint. California, for instance, doesn’t offer any medical exemptions for window tint laws. Instead, the state allows a special sun-screening device to be installed on the front side windows only while the affected person is in the vehicle with a signed doctor’s note.[5]

Can Window Tint Tickets Impact Your Insurance?

Getting a single window tint ticket is unlikely to impact your insurance rates, but insurers may increase your premium if you allow tint-based tickets to pile up. “Insurance companies are more concerned with moving violations or accidents," Varghese said. "But if you get enough non-moving violations, like tint tickets, it could signal to your insurance company that you’re not following vehicle regulations, and they might raise your rates.”

Additionally, if you leave your window tint tickets unpaid, these tickets can be sent to collections and affect your credit score. In states where insurers consider credit scores when setting premiums, a lower credit score due to unpaid tickets can lead to higher insurance rates.

Can You Get a Window Tint Ticket Dismissed?

If you get a window tint ticket, don’t fret — dismissing the ticket by rectifying the issue before your assigned court date is often possible. You can typically fix a window tint ticket by taking it to a professional tint shop or removing it yourself. However, you should be careful not to accidentally crack your windows if you remove your tint without a specialist. 

You may need evidence, such as a receipt showing that the tint was removed or faded to meet minimum requirements or photos of your car’s window after the tint was removed. Some states, such as Oregon, may also allow the ticket to be dismissed if you provide evidence that the tint was medically necessary, usually with an accompanying affidavit, prescription or letter from your doctor.[6] Keep in mind that even if you fix the issue, it may not result in the ticket being dismissed entirely but will likely help prevent getting future window tint tickets.

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FAQs

Does insurance cover window tint?

Yes, windows tinted by the manufacturer will likely be covered by comprehensive insurance if a covered peril damages the windows, while collision coverage will likely cover their replacement if damaged in a crash. Windows that are tinted after the purchase may be considered a modification, potentially requiring additional custom parts and equipment (CPE) insurance to cover their repair or replacement.

Why do people tint car windows?

Car owners frequently tint their vehicle’s windows to protect against the sun’s UV rays, heat and light glare or for aesthetic reasons. They may also prefer the increased privacy tinted windows can offer.

Can you get a window tint ticket dismissed?

You can often get a window tint ticket dismissed if you eliminate or reduce the tint before the court date on your ticket. Some states may also allow for dismissal if you can prove a passenger or driver in the car at the time of the ticket was medically exempt, usually with a doctor’s note or equivalent proof.

Do I need to inform my insurance carrier if I get my car windows tinted?

Yes, if you tint your car’s windows after its purchase, you should likely inform your insurance company about the modification and verify it won’t affect your policy or premium. While window tinting is often only a minor modification and might not affect your insurance at all, it may be useful to note an aftermarket tint to your insurer if you need to make a claim involving your windows in the future.

Sources

  1. FindLaw. “Window Tint Laws: The Basics.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2024.
  2. TintWiz. “Vehicle Window Tint Laws By State.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2024.
  3. Car Tint Law. “What Is Windshield's AS-1 Line.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2024.
  4. AP Tinting. “Do Window Tint Laws Carry Over from State to State?” Accessed Oct. 14, 2024.
  5. Jet Black Tint. “Vehicle Window Tint Law Medical Exemption.” Accessed Oct. 15, 2024.
  6. OregonLaws. “Illegal Window Tinting.” Accessed Oct. 14, 2024.
About the Author
Preston Micalizio
Preston Micalizio
Auto Insurance Expert

Preston Micalizio writes insurance content for SmartFinancial. He brings three years of professional experience writing in various industries, from higher education to e-commerce. He strives to engage with the audience, provide accurate reporting and make complex subjects easily digestible.

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