New Mexico Tint Laws
In 1997, New Mexico implemented car window tinting laws, governing the permissible levels of darkness and reflectivity for window tints. To help you navigate these regulations with precision, we’ve assembled a comprehensive overview, covering the intricate details.
Disclaimer
While I have a background in commercial law and strive to provide accurate and informative content, it’s important to note that I am not a legal expert. 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 New Mexico:
New Mexico adheres to a specific metric, known as Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which quantifies the percentage of visible light that must pass through your car windows. The requirements vary for sedan cars and SUVs/vans:
New Mexico Car Tint Laws For Sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is permissible above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches.
- Front Side windows: A minimum of 20% of light must be allowed to pass through.
- Back Side windows: Similar to front side windows, a minimum of 20% of light transmission is required.
- Rear Window: At least 20% of light should penetrate the rear window.
Tint Law For SUVs and Vans in New Mexico:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowable above the AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches.
- Front Side windows: Similar to sedans, these windows must allow more than 20% of light in.
- Back Side windows: There are no specific restrictions, allowing any level of tint darkness.
- Rear Window: SUVs and vans enjoy flexibility in choosing the darkness of their rear window tint.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line or top 5 inches | Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line or top 5 inches |
| Front Side Windows | Minimum 20% light transmission | Minimum 20% light transmission |
| Back Side Windows | Minimum 20% light transmission | No specific restrictions, any level of tint darkness allowed |
| Rear Window | At least 20% light transmission | Any level of tint darkness allowed |
Window Tint Reflection in New Mexico:
Window tints have the ability to reflect incoming light, reducing glare and heat. New Mexico’s regulations specify the permissible levels of reflection when using window tints:
Reflectivity laws For both sedans and SUVs/vans:
- Front Side windows: Reflection is not permitted.
- Back Side windows: Similar to front side windows, rear window tints should not exhibit any reflection.
Additional New Mexico Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In addition to darkness and reflection levels, New Mexico’s window tinting laws encompass several vital regulations:
Side Mirrors
If any side or back windows are tinted, the installation of dual side mirrors is mandatory.
Restricted Colors
Red, amber, and yellow colors are not allowed for window tints.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are required to certify the film they sell within the state. It is advisable to verify the use of certified film with your dealer.
Stickers
Identifying stickers to indicate legal tinting are necessary and must be placed between the film and the glass on every tinted window.
Medical Exceptions
New Mexico provides allowances for medical exemptions regarding special tints.
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 Texas, Oklahoma, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Penalties
Non-compliance with these regulations could lead to a petty misdemeanor charge, with fines of up to $75.
Please bear in mind that interpretations of New Mexico’s tinting laws and regulations might differ depending on your county or place of residence. For complete assurance of compliance, we strongly recommend verifying this information with your local DMV or law enforcement authorities.
Our information on New Mexico’s window tint laws was most recently updated in 2023, and we are committed to offering the most accurate and current information. If you come across any inaccuracies or outdated information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your trust in our resources is paramount, and we are dedicated to providing the most reliable information available.
FAQs on New Mexico Tint Laws
What is the legal tint in Las Cruces?
The laws are the same as New Mexico’s Laws.
- For sedans, non-reflective tint is allowed on windshields above the AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches, with front and back side windows requiring at least 20% light transmission.
- For SUVs and vans, the rules are similar for windshields and front-side windows, but there are no specific restrictions on tint darkness for back-side windows, offering flexibility for rear window tint darkness.
is 5% tint legal in New Mexico?
No, it is illegal. In New Mexico, for sedans, non-reflective tint is allowed on windshields above the AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches, with front and back side windows requiring at least 20% light transmission. For SUVs and vans, the rules are similar for windshields and front-side windows, but there are no specific restrictions on tint darkness for back-side windows, offering flexibility for rear window tint darkness.