New York Window Tint Law: Limits and Penalties
Dark or reflective window tint can get you pulled over in New York. Whether you're driving in Manhattan or Nassau County, you need to know what’s legal and what can lead to a ticket or inspection failure. Here’s a breakdown of the rules, penalties, and what to do if you get a window tint ticket.
Window Tint Rules in New York: VLT Percentages by Window
New York’s window tint law is based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT). This measures how much light passes through your car’s windows. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint.
Legal VLT limits for passenger vehicles:
Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed only above the AS-1 line set by the manufacturer.
Front side windows: Must allow at least 70% of light in.
Rear side windows: Must allow at least 70% of light in.
Rear windshield: Must allow at least 70% of light in.
Legal VLT limits for SUVs and vans:
Front side windows: Must allow at least 70% of light in.
Rear side and rear windows: Can be any darkness.
The key difference is that SUVs and vans have more flexibility on the rear windows. Passenger cars don’t. Most tint shops know this, but out-of-state installers may not.
Window Tint Regulations: Medical Exemptions, Inspections, and Proof
There are a few exceptions, but you must follow strict rules.
Medical Exemptions
You can apply for a window tint exemption if you have a medical condition that requires extra protection from sunlight. Common conditions include:
Lupus
Albinism
Photophobia
Severe photosensitivity from medications
You’ll need to submit a Doctor Certification Form (MV-80W) to the DMV. If approved, you’ll receive an exemption sticker.
Annual Vehicle Inspections
Since 2017, window tint is part of New York’s mandatory vehicle inspection. If your windows don’t meet the legal VLT, you’ll fail inspection. Most shops use a tint meter to test VLT on the spot.
Carrying Proof
If you have a medical exemption, you must keep the certificate in your vehicle. If a police officer pulls you over, they may ask for it.
Window Tint Reflection: Glare, Mirror-Like Finishes, and Limits
New York doesn’t just regulate how dark your tint is. It also limits how reflective it can be.
Reflective tint can look shiny or mirror-like. It may block heat, but it can also create glare for other drivers. This is a safety issue.
Rules on reflectivity:
Front side windows: No more than 20% reflective
Rear side windows: No more than 20% reflective
Most metallic or mirrored tints are not legal. Stick to tints that reduce heat but don’t have a shiny finish.
Window Tint Darkness: Testing Methods, Tickets, and Fix-It Options
Police use handheld tint meters during traffic stops. These measure how much light passes through your windows. If your tint is too dark, you can get a ticket on the spot.
Penalties for illegal tint:
Fine up to $150
Possible surcharge
2 points on your license if tied to other violations
Required to remove tint and provide proof
Some tickets are marked as “fix-it” violations. Not tinted windows, BUT sometimes if you remove the illegal tint and show proof, the court may choose to dismiss the charge or reduce the fine. But if you ignore the ticket, your license could be suspended.
What to Do if You Get a Window Tint Ticket
A window tint ticket may seem minor, but it can add up if you have other violations. Don’t ignore it.
Here’s what you should do:
Check the VLT on your windows
Remove illegal tint if possible
Take photos or get a shop receipt to show proof
Contact a traffic lawyer in NYC before pleading guilty
We handle window tint tickets across New York, including Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Nassau, and Suffolk. Every case is reviewed by Michael Beer, an attorney with over 30 years of experience in traffic law.
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