Many vehicle owners dream of having the darkest window film in the industry, often called limo tint, which is applied to a vehicle in order to add security, privacy, and class. This particular window film is the darkest film available for purchase.  It allows only 5% of light into the interior, which is the darkness that many vehicle owners strive for, when it comes to tinting a vehicle. However, an interested consumer may want to know what to look for in terms of legalities. Is this window film legal in all states? Which windows can this window film be applied to and still remain legal?

Window film on vehicles is regulated by state law. This means that all states differ when it comes to how dark a film may be, and which windows may be covered. If there is a question concerning specific legalities in an area, the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can be contacted for updated local guidelines and regulations concerning window film. States generally regulate light transmittance and luminous reflectance when it comes to heat-shrinking applications, which is a common and affordable type of window film application.

Generally speaking, most new vehicles that come with window film already applied meet the local laws for the state. However, a purchaser should always check with the local DMV to ensure that the vehicle is within state guidelines. Not all new vehicle owners are satisfied with the film applied, and many seek to apply after-market window film, with limo tint being a highly sought prize. Yet, stiff fines and penalties may be issued to the owner of a vehicle which is not in compliance with local laws. Unfortunately, ignorance of the law is not a good excuse when law officials ticket the vehicle owner for window film that is too dark or placed incorrectly.

States usually regulate the side windows, the rear window, and the front windshield separately, with darker film allowed on the side rear windows than on the front windshield. Limo tint, while popular, can make it increasingly difficult to see at night. Therefore, the front windshield generally does not allow the dark films available on the market today. In addition, the front side windows cannot be excessively dark, due to the need to see at night by the driver, as well as the need to see in by law enforcement officials.

In some states, a doctor’s note can give permission for a darker window film than what is allowed by law. However, most states still require that a permit be applied for by the note carrier, and there are still limits to the shades permitted. In addition, each window or windshield still has regulations set forth by the state. Again, check with the local DMV to make sure that all legalities are understood before applying any type of limo tint to any surface.

When it comes to window film, limo tint is perhaps the most prized application for vehicle owners. However, staying within the legal limit is necessary in order to prevent getting fines. As laws and regulations may change regularly, it is highly suggested that all would-be applications of window film start with a phone call to the local DMV.