Nebraska Tint Laws
Nebraska’s window tint laws aim to strike a balance between allowing personalization and ensuring safety and visibility. These regulations have been in effect since 2006, and vehicle owners need to understand them thoroughly. We’ve compiled the essential information regarding window tint darkness, reflection, and other rules and regulations specific to Nebraska. The Current Statute is Chapter 60 Motor Vehicles – Sections 60-6,257. This law details the terms and definitions of tinting, sunscreening, prohibited acts, windshields, and windows.
Disclaimer:
While I briefly studied commercial law and continually strive to provide accurate and informative content, it’s important to note that I am not a legal expert – and certainly not in every state. The information presented in this blog is based on my interpretation of the subject matter, and laws can vary by location and change over time. It is strongly recommended that readers verify all sources of information and consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities before making any decisions related to tint laws.
Understanding the Terminology Regarding Tint Laws
The most important part of the legislation is understanding what VLT is and how law enforcement services check or test the percentage.
What is VLT
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, is a measure of the amount of visible light that can pass through a window tint or film. It is commonly used to determine the darkness or opacity of window tints, and it’s an important factor in window tinting laws and regulations.
VLT is typically expressed as a percentage. For example, a window tint with a VLT of 20% allows only 20% of visible light to pass through, making it relatively dark and less transparent. Conversely, a window tint with a VLT of 70% allows 70% of visible light to pass through and is much lighter and more transparent.
How do Law Enforcement services test the VLT percentage?
Window tinting laws vary by jurisdiction, and they often specify the maximum allowable VLT for different types of windows on a vehicle, such as the front windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window. These laws are designed to ensure that drivers have adequate visibility and that law enforcement can see into vehicles for safety and identification purposes. The manner that they go about testing the VLT is by using a VLT gauge/meter.
Here is a YouTube Short from @TrafficServices and @TorontoPolice showcasing the device and how it works. Even though it is in Canada, it still is helpful to understand how the tint darkness is measured.
Window Tint Darkness in Nebraska:
The level of visible light transmission (VLT) allowed through your car windows serves as the basis for Nebraska’s window tint regulations. These rules vary between sedans and SUVs/vans.
Nebraska Car Tint Laws For Sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, which ensures visibility while providing room for personalization. The law does not specify a particular VLT percentage for this area.
- Front Side Windows: These windows must allow more than 35% of light to pass through, maintaining visibility and safety for the driver.
- Back Side Windows: Nebraska law mandates that the back side windows permit more than 20% of light transmission, allowing a degree of privacy without compromising safety.
- Rear Window: Similar to the back side windows, the law requires the rear window to allow more than 20% of light transmission.
Tint Laws For SUVs and Vans in Nebraska:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, without specifying a particular VLT percentage.
- Front Side Windows: SUVs and vans’ front side windows must also allow more than 35% of light in, ensuring safety and visibility.
- Back Side Windows: Nebraska law permits “any darkness” on back side windows without specifying a specific VLT percentage.
- Rear Window: Similar to back side windows, SUVs and vans can use “any darkness” on the rear window while adhering to the law.
Nebraska’s window tint laws prohibit window tint that substantially impairs the ability to see into the motor vehicle. The interpretation of this provision may vary, so it’s advisable to avoid tint with less than 20% VLT on all vehicles for safety and compliance.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line | Non-reflective tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | Must allow more than 35% of light to pass through | Must allow more than 35% of light to pass through |
| Back Side Windows | Must permit more than 20% of light transmission | Any darkness can be used on back side windows |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 20% of light to pass through | Any darkness can be used on the rear window |
Window Tint Reflection in Nebraska
Tinted windows can reduce glare and heat by reflecting incoming light. Nebraska law allows a certain level of light reflection while using window tint.
Tint Reflection for Sedans and SUVs/Vans:
- Front Side Windows: The law specifies that front side windows must not be more than 35% reflective without providing a detailed definition of “reflective.” This is referred to as “Luminous reflectance” in the Statute.
- Back Side Windows: Similar to front side windows, back side windows must not be more than 35% reflective without further clarification. This is referred to as “Luminous reflectance” in the statute.
Additional Nebraska Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
Beyond darkness and reflection, Nebraska’s window tint laws encompass various other important regulations:
Side Mirrors
Nebraska state law does not specify side mirror requirements, but it’s advisable to maintain dual side mirrors if the back window is tinted to ensure proper visibility.
Restricted Colors
Nebraska law prohibits the use of red, amber, and yellow colors on windshields. No mention has been made regarding the side windows.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in the state. However, vehicle owners should ensure their chosen film complies with state law.
Stickers
While not mandatory, state law recommends the use of stickers to identify legal tinting.
Medical Exceptions
Nebraska law does not provide for medical exemptions that would allow the use of special tint.
Regulations for Out-of-State Drivers
The same regulations apply to out-of-state drivers as those for drivers living in the State.
If you are from States such as Missouri, Wyoming, South Dakota, Kansas, Iowa and Colorado, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Penalties
Non-compliance with window tint laws may result in a Class V misdemeanor, carrying potential legal consequences.
Interpretations of Nebraska’s tinting laws may differ based on your county or local jurisdiction. To ensure complete compliance, it’s wise to verify the information with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or consult law enforcement authorities.
Our information regarding Nebraska’s window tint laws was most recently updated in 2023, and we remain committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information. If you discover any inaccuracies or outdated details, please feel free to contact us, and we will promptly address them.