North Carolina Tint Laws
In 2001, North Carolina established car window tinting laws, and our commitment is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these regulations. We have meticulously compiled information regarding permissible tint darkness, reflection standards, and other essential guidelines related to window tinting in the state.
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 North Carolina:
The degree of visible light allowed through your car windows, referred to as Visible Light Transmission (VLT), is a critical aspect of North Carolina’s regulations. These rules differ for sedans and SUVs/vans.
North Carolina Car Tint Law for Sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches.
- Front Side windows: They must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
- Back Side windows: You should ensure that more than 35% of light penetrates.
- Rear Window: Compliance mandates that more than 35% of light is allowed.
Tint Law For SUVs and Vans in North Carolina:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches.
- Front Side windows: These windows must permit more than 35% of light to pass through.
- Back Side windows: Any level of darkness is permissible.
- Rear Window: Similar to back side windows, any level of darkness is allowed.
However, it’s important to be aware that North Carolina has introduced a new law, effective on May 22nd, 2022, allowing a VLT of 35% on front side windows. Until then, the current regulation mandates 43% VLT for front side windows.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or within top 5 inches | Non-reflective tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or within top 5 inches |
| 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 allow more than 35% of light to pass through | Any level of darkness is permissible |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 35% of light to pass through | Any level of darkness is permissible |
Window Tint Reflection in North Carolina:
Window tint serves to reflect incoming light, reducing glare and heat. North Carolina’s tint law outlines permissible limits for window reflection when employing tint. To ensure compliance, take note of the following:
For both sedans and SUVs/vans:
- Front Side windows: They should not possess a reflective quality exceeding 20%.
- Back Side windows: These windows should not exhibit a reflection of more than 20%.
Other North Carolina Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In addition to tint darkness and reflection specifications, North Carolina has several other crucial regulations associated with window tinting:
Side Mirrors
If the back window is tinted, the state mandates the use of dual side mirrors.
Restricted Colors
The state prohibits the use of red, amber, and yellow tint colors.
Tint Variance
A 3% variance is allowed, up to 32% VLT.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are not compelled to certify the film they sell in the state.
Stickers
While the law does not mandate a sticker to denote legal tinting, a medical exemption sticker is required if applicable.
Medical Exceptions
North Carolina allows medical exemptions for special tint. Specific terms of the exemption can be obtained by consulting your state law.
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 South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and Virginia, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Exceptions to North Carolina Window Tinting Requirements:
North Carolina’s window tinting requirements do not apply to windows on:
- Excursion passenger vehicles.
- Motor homes.
- Ambulances.
- Property-hauling vehicles (rear window only).
- Limousines.
- Multipurpose vehicles (e.g., mini-van, pickup truck, SUV) designed to carry 10 or fewer passengers.
- Law enforcement vehicles.
- Vehicles with a medical exemption issued by NCDMV.
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Violation of tinting laws is categorized as a traffic infraction, which could result in a $50 fine, along with court costs amounting to $238. Additionally, a window tint ticket can affect your car insurance rate, just like any other violation on your driving record.
Interpretations of North Carolina’s tinting laws and regulations may differ based on your county or place of residence. To ensure complete compliance, we strongly recommend verifying this information with your local DMV or law enforcement authorities.
Our information on window tint laws in North Carolina was last updated in 2023. As a trusted industry leader, we remain committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information on window tint laws. If you come across any inaccuracies or outdated data, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your trust in our resources is of utmost importance, and we are dedicated to offering you the most reliable information available.