What is Legal Window Tint?
The concept of window tint, also known as window film, is pretty simple. It’s essentially a thin film made of a certain material that is applied to the windows of a vehicle with basic adhesive. The purpose of this is to provide additional privacy and/or shading from the sun for the driver and passengers inside the vehicle.
In North Carolina, vehicle window tint has been legal to have in vehicles for many years. This tint is regulated by law as part of Article 3 Chapter 20 of the North Carolina General Statutes. The law covers general window tint laws as well as tint on windshields and other specific areas of a vehicle in addition to various exceptions. Some of the tint laws apply to vehicles and some for passenger vehicles .
The purpose for these laws, as stated above, is to prevent over-darkening of windows to help law enforcement officers see inside the vehicle. Additionally, situations where a blacked-out window is illegal can be easily detected by law enforcement officers. These laws also help to regulate high amounts of solar energy that passes into the passenger compartment of the vehicle which can help operators to avoid accidents due to low visibility and other reasons.
The penalties for failing to comply with window tint laws in North Carolina can include the vehicle being stopped, which is a moving violation. Upon review of your tint level, you may have to pay a fine as well, which will increase if an officer believes the tint has been altered or adjusted after being approved.
North Carolina Legal Tint Percentages
Legal tint percentages vary across states in the US, especially when you cross from one state into the next. If you are stopped and investigated by law enforcement in North Carolina, however, they have to honor NC tint law requirements as the law stands. If you are pulled over on the side of the road due to a blown tire and you roll the window down for the deputy to see inside your car, then he or she may take issue with the amount of tint you have. NC tint rules state that you can have no more than 35% darkness on your windshield, and only on the top 5 inches. You can also go as dark as 20% on the rest of the window, and as dark as 35% VLT on the front side windows.
For the backside and rear, your windows may be tinted as dark as 20% VLT. SUVs, vans, and RVs have a bit more flexibility, as stated in the NC tint law. No windshield tint is permitted at all, only a shield on the top 5 inches of the glass. Anything is allowed on the back side, and these can be as dark as 5% VLT.
For anyone who owns a Jeep or other open-door type of off-road vehicle, the windshield is not required by NC tint law to be tinted at all, but the top 5 inches must be a tinted band. If you intend to drive this type of vehicle on the main highways and those who will have to pull you over will be much more likely to check you out, so keep that in mind.
North Carolina Window Tint Exceptions
There are, however, certain exceptions to these regulations. The most common of these is the medical exemption. The medical exemption allows an individual to use window tint that exceeds the typical VLT regulations and is not subject to applicable restrictions. This exception is reserved for those who have special medical conditions that make excess exposure to sunlight hazardous. Those who seek to obtain a medical exemption are advised to carry the correct paperwork and documentation while driving as the legality of their window tint may be questioned by law enforcement officers. The medical exemption even allows individuals suffering from such conditions to use custom tinting, such as ceramic tint, that is more expensive than standard film. Many people applying for the medical exemption are granted the ability to use limousine grade tint. While this tint tends to be darker than the typical legal limit, it is exempt from the usual VLT rules. Another exception is for those involved in law enforcement. Members of law enforcement, fire fighters, rescue squad drivers, doctors and emergency medical technicians are exempt from the usual VLT requirements and exemptions may be granted by state, county or local agencies.
Penalties for Illegal Window Tint
If you are found to be in violation of the legal tint law, there are several consequences you may face. For one, police officers can issue a citation for having a tint that is too dark in addition to inspect your car on the spot and ensure that the tint is within the legal limits. It is important to note that law enforcement must have a Fair Test Meter with them in order to properly measure your tint. Unfortunately, many officers use their own discretion or judgment to determine whether or not your vehicle is in compliance with NC window tint laws. While all officers are supposed to use the fair test meter, not all choose to do so. If your tint is deemed to be too dark and you receive a citation , you will then have to schedule an inspection of your vehicle at a place of your choosing. If the tint is indeed found to be within the confines of the law, you are that a $50 fine and be let go. If not, you are facing more serious repercussions such as having to pay an $89 fine for the non-compliance first offense. However, after a second offense, you will be required to remove the dark tint from the windows of your vehicle before you are allowed on the road again. This is when you finally have a chance of not having to pay additional fines. For this reason, you need to be sure that you comply with the legal tint law. Otherwise, you are essentially buying a ticket with your tint installation.
Selecting Legal Tint
When selecting legal window tint, the first step is to understand the levels of tint available and the corresponding VLT percentages. Knowing the VLT percentages for each level, as well as the VLT percentage of the tint film itself, is crucial to ensure compliance with North Carolina laws. An experienced window tint installer will be familiar with the VLT percentages and will be able to work with you to find a tint that is both practical and legal.
It’s important to work with a reputable window tint installer, preferably one who has extensive experience with the legal tint requirements of North Carolina. They’ll be able to guide you through the process of selecting a legal tint that fits your vehicle and your preferences. They can also provide you with information on the legal tint limit for your windows, as well as how to maintain the tint once it has been applied.
Before working with a window tint installer, you should have a good idea of what you’re looking for. If you’re unsure, the installer should be able to provide you with samples to help you compare the different levels of tint. It’s best to choose a tint that offers the level of privacy you desire, yet is compliant with North Carolina’s legal tint limit.
FAQ About North Carolina Window Tint Requirements
How do I know if my window tint is legal in North Carolina?
It’s important to keep in mind that the window tints your car came with from the factory are always legal. Aftermarket window films are subject to certain state laws and regulations. Always have your legal window tint measured if you wonder if it is within the limits.
Can I have tinted windows if my car has a sunroof?
Yes. You can have tinted windows, and a sunroof if you like, no problem there. Your sunroof will not fall under any tint restrictions.
How can I remove illegal window tint?
Always have your tint removed by a professional to avoid damaging the window when you have the film pulled off. When trying to remove the film yourself, it’s likely that you will scratch your window. You don’t want to end up having to replace your entire window because of damage done while trying to remove your illegal tint. We advise you don’t try to pull the tint on your own. Unless you’re a professional , it always makes sense to have the installation and removal handled at a professional shop.
Can I legally have mirrored tint on my car?
Any level of reflectivity in window film is illegal on the windshield by North Carolina law. On the front side or rear side windows, the reflectivity cannot exceed 20 percent. If you want to add a reflective tint, be careful about where you do so in your vehicle. Manufacturers, tent shops and installers may recommend a reflective tint for your vehicle, but you want to be aware there are restrictions.
What does tinting my vehicle’s windows cost?
The cost of tinting will vary depending on the tinting company. Factors include the talent and experience of the installer, type of tint you choose, size of windows and more. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 up to $800 for tinting. When you consider the money tinting saves by helping to keep your vehicle’s interior cool in the summer and reducing glare, the investment is often worth it.