The tint for car windows comes in a variety of shades and colors.  However, each state carries their own set of laws regarding the use of tint for car windows.  These laws included what colors and shades may be used as well as other specifications about application.

How dark can the windows be?  This is one of the most asked questions when people seek to have tint for car windows installed.  The answer all depends on the laws of the state in which the vehicle is registered.  It is also contingent on which window is being darkened.  In many states, the requirements of visible light transmission, or VLT%, is considerably different for the windshield, side windows, and rear window.  The type of transport also makes a difference as to which regulations apply.  For example,  in the 1999 California guidelines, a sedan can have tinting only on the top four inches of the windshield, must have 70% VLT on the driver door window, while the rear door and back windows can have any darkness the customer wishes to install.  However, in the Texas 2003 guidelines, a sedan is allowed coverage on the windshield above the AS-1 manufacturer’s line, driver and passenger door windows with at least 25%VLT, and any percentage on the rear window.  Between these two sample states there is a large discrepancy.  In addition, each state’s law refers to the total VLT% in a different way.  Some include only the film.  Others add the VLT of the window to that of the film.  Still others do not specify, and thus, leave the interpretation up to the local law enforcement officers.

There are other regulations that apply to the tint for car windows.  Indicated in the laws is whether or not they allow a variation in colors.  Some states allow side mirrors to have the film applied to them, while others do not.  A certificate is required by some to prove the applications meet state standards.  Sometimes stickers are required in various placements to help an officer quickly identify compliant vehicles.  Occasionally, a state makes medical exemptions for certain conditions.  In these cases, the vehicle can have a darker film applied than is normally allowed.  Most, if not all, states require that the darkening material not add to the reflective nature of the window surface.  

Laws and guidelines for everything in this modern age change rapidly.  Lawmakers constantly attempt to adjust to new needs and technologies of their people.  This is true of those that govern tint for car windows as well.  When considering adding a darkening film to a vehicle, it is wise to consult the most current regulations in the state where the automobile is registered and will be driven.  Even when traveling in a vehicle that has darkened windows, the laws in the states that will be visited should be consulted.  These guidelines will apply, and the driver is expected to comply with that state's laws.  If travel to other states is a frequent occurrence, then consultation of those states’ guidelines is of the utmost importance before adding the desired darkening film to a vehicle.  After making the necessary legal inquires, a vehicle owner is able to make the best choices for their needs.