Tint Laws (Windshield) by State in United States
Windshield tinting regulations in the United States vary by state, with each state determining how much tint is permissible on the front windshield. Generally, these laws aim to balance privacy, comfort, and visibility, while ensuring safety for drivers and law enforcement officers. Below is an overview of the windshield tint laws for each state, including the allowable tint percentage and the maximum tinting level, usually measured from the top of the windshield or the manufacturer's as-1 line.
Overview of Windshield Tint Laws
Windshield tint laws are designed to ensure visibility and road safety while allowing drivers to benefit from sun protection. Many states regulate tinting based on a specific number of inches from the top of the windshield, while others set limits to the manufacturer’s as-1 line, which is the line marking the top of the shaded area of the windshield. Tinting that exceeds these limits can result in fines or vehicle inspections, so it’s essential to be aware of local regulations.
States with the Most Lenient Windshield Tinting Laws
Several states have relatively lenient windshield tint laws, allowing drivers to tint their windshields up to or beyond the manufacturer's as-1 line:
Arizona - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Colorado - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Idaho - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Indiana - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Kansas - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Kentucky - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Louisiana - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Mississippi - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Missouri - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Montana - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Nevada - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
North Carolina - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
South Carolina - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
South Dakota - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Tennessee - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Texas - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Utah - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Vermont - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Virginia - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Wisconsin - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
States with Specific Restrictions on Windshield Tinting
Some states impose specific limits on the amount of tint allowed on windshields, measured in inches. Here are some states with specific restrictions:
Alabama - 6 inches
Alaska - 5 inches
Arkansas - 5 inches
Florida - Non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Georgia - 6 inches
Maryland - 5 inches
New Hampshire - 6 inches
New York - 6 inches
Washington - 6 inches
West Virginia - 5 inches
States with More Restrictive Windshield Tinting Regulations
Some states have stricter restrictions, including a prohibition on tinting or limiting the degree of tint allowed on the windshield:
California - 4 inches
Connecticut - Non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Delaware - Non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Hawaii - Must allow 70% of light
Illinois - 6 inches
Iowa - Tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Michigan - 4 inches
Maine - 4 inches
Massachusetts - 6 inches
North Dakota - No more than 70% tint
Ohio - No more than 70% tint
Pennsylvania - None allowed
New Jersey - No tint allowed
Conclusion
While windshield tinting laws vary by state, most states allow some form of tinting, but with specific regulations governing the extent of the tint. The key to staying compliant is to know your state's rules, which could include limits on the number of inches or restrictions on the level of light that must pass through the windshield. It is always recommended to consult local regulations before making any changes to your vehicle’s tinting.
