Learn the Basic Laws About Car Window Tints
Car window tinting can enhance privacy, reduce glare, and provide protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, before you rush to get your vehicle’s windows tinted, it’s essential to be aware of the laws and regulations surrounding this practice.
Darkness and Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
One of the primary regulations governing vehicle window tinting is the level of darkness, often referred to as Visible Light Transmission (VLT). VLT measures the percentage of visible light that passes through both the tinted film and the car’s window. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the tint.
Vehicle window tinting laws vary from state to state and even from country to country. Typically, they dictate the maximum allowable VLT percentage for different windows of a vehicle, including the windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window. For example, many states in the U.S. allow darker tint on rear windows but require higher VLT percentages for front side windows and windshields to ensure adequate visibility for drivers.
Reflectivity
In addition to darkness and VLT, many vehicle window tinting laws also regulate the reflectivity of tinted windows. Reflectivity refers to the amount of external light that is reflected off the window. Excessive reflectivity can be distracting to other drivers and pose safety risks, especially at night.
To comply with the law, window tint films must meet specific reflectivity limits set by local regulations. This ensures that tinted windows do not create blinding glare for other drivers or interfere with their ability to see the road clearly.
Medical Exemptions and Special Circumstances
While there are general laws and regulations regarding vehicle window tinting, some jurisdictions allow for medical exemptions or special circumstances. Individuals with medical conditions that require protection from excessive sunlight or UV rays may be permitted to have darker tint on their windows with the appropriate documentation from a healthcare provider.
Additionally, certain vehicles, such as armored cars or law enforcement vehicles, may have exemptions or different tinting rules due to their specific requirements. It’s essential to research and understand any special circumstances or exemptions that may apply in your region.
Auto Glass Experts is an expert at car window tinting. If you have any questions, you can always call me at (225) 254-9377. And if you want to talk more about car window tints, you can find us in Baton Rouge, LA.