While tinted windows add a certain type of flare to any vehicle, they aren’t just for show. Window tints can keep your car cooler in the summer and reduce glare, all while giving you some extra privacy. But before you tint your windows, it’s crucial to understand and follow North Carolina’s tint laws to avoid fines and ensure safe driving practices.
Our goal here is to help you navigate these tint regulations in North Carolina so that you can enjoy the benefits of tinted windows while staying compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.
North Carolina Tint Law Basics
Legal Tint Limits
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Percentage
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is how much light your car windows let in and is a leading factor when it comes to the legality of tints.
In North Carolina, different windows and vehicle types have specific VLT limits. For passenger vehicles, your front side windows must let in more than 35% of light, and the same runs true for the rear windows
As for SUVs and vans, the front side windows also need to meet the 35% VLT requirement, but you have more freedom with the rear side and back windows.
Windshield Tinting Rules
When it comes to windshields, the rules are far stricter.
North Carolina allows for a non-reflective tint strip along the top of the windshield. This strip cannot go below the AS-1 line or more than five inches from the top, whichever comes first.
The purpose of this strip is to help reduce sun glare without compromising your visibility.
Medical Exemptions
Eligibility Criteria
If you have a medical condition that makes you sensitive to sunlight, like lupus or photosensitivity, you might qualify for a medical exemption to the tint laws. For this, you’ll need a full-fledged certification from your doctor explaining the medical necessity for these darker tints.
Application Process
To get a medical exemption, send your doctor’s note to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Once approved, you’ll receive a medical exemption sticker that must be displayed on your vehicle at all times.
Tint Reflectivity and Color Restrictions
Reflective Tint
Allowed Reflectivity Levels
Reflective tint can help reduce heat and glare, but North Carolina limits how reflective your window tint can be for a multitude of reasons.
For both front and rear side windows, the reflectivity must not exceed 20%. This ensures that the tint doesn’t overly reflect light, which could be hazardous to other drivers and cause a distraction.
Prohibited Tint Colors
North Carolina also doesn’t allow certain colors of tint on your car, van, or truck windows.
To be specific, red, yellow, and amber tints are prohibited because they can distort visibility and create severe safety hazards. If you do decide to choose colored tints, please do so within the legal color range to stay safe and compliant with NC laws.
Enforcement and Penalties
Inspection and Compliance
Inspection Requirements
Vehicles in North Carolina must undergo regular safety inspections, which include checking the window tint and how much light is allowed through.
During the inspection, officials will measure the VLT percentage and check for compliance with North Carolina reflectivity and color restrictions.
Compliance Certificates
If your vehicle passes the tint inspection, you’ll receive a compliance certificate.
It is important to keep this certificate in your vehicle as proof of compliance, especially if you’re ever pulled over by law enforcement and there is any sort of disagreement. If this happens to be the case, your certification will help you in your predicament.
Fines and Penalties
Violation Consequences
Failing to comply with tint laws can result in some seriously annoying fines.
First-time offenders may face a fine of up to $50.
Now, repeat violations can see themselves running into much higher fines and potentially having their car registration revoked, that is until the tint is corrected and can be proven to have been corrected.
Ensuring your tint is within legal limits can save you from these costly penalties as well as the nuisance of your car being taken off the road until it is fixed.
Practical Tips for Vehicle Owners
Choosing the Right Tint
Factors to Consider
When picking window tint, think about what you need; more privacy, better UV protection, or just a cooler car in the summer.
It’s a good idea to pick a tint that fits your needs and stays within the boundaries of the law. If you ever have any doubts, you can always refer to the North Carolina window tint company you decide to use for your tint installation for advice, as they will certainly know the laws and best practices for the state.
Professional Installation
As we just stated, opting for professional installation of window tint ensures it meets any and all NC state laws.
Professionals have the right tools and knowledge to apply the proper tint evenly and correctly. Look for a reputable service provider with positive reviews and verified experience in installing legal window tints and you’ll certainly be in good hands.
Maintaining Your Tint
Care and Maintenance Tips
Now, when it comes to keeping your window tint looking as good as the day it was put on and functioning well, proper care is essential.
Use soft cloths and mild cleaning solutions to clean your tinted windows. It is best to avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the tint as well. Regular maintenance will keep your tint looking good and functioning effectively.
Closing Things Up
Understanding and following North Carolina’s tint laws isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about keeping yourself and others safe on the road.
Whether you’re looking to reduce glare, keep your car cool, or add some privacy, knowing the legal limits will help you make the best choice if you elect to install tints. And if you have a medical condition that requires darker tint, remember to apply for an exemption, there is no reason not to take advantage of those programs offered by the state.
Always go with professional installation to make sure everything’s done right, and take good care of your tint to keep it looking great. It’s always a good idea to ask the tinting provider for best care practices, as different brands have different properties.
If you stay informed and compliant, you’ll most certainly enjoy the benefits of some well-tinted windows in the beautiful state of North Carolina.
