Window tinting offers various advantages, from privacy and aesthetics to glare reduction and UV protection. But before you go tinting your car windows in North Carolina, it’s essential to understand the state’s regulations and ensure you stay within the legal limits.
Window Tinting Laws in North Carolina for Different Vehicles
Is 5 Percent Tint Legal in North Carolina?
No, 5% tint is much darker than the legal 32% limit for most vehicle windows in North Carolina. Let us explore the law on the tinting of different vehicles in North Carolina.
Window Tint Darkness in North Carolina
Known as VLT (Visible Light Transmission), the percentage of light allowed through your vehicle’s windows in North Carolina differs for sedans and SUVs or vans. Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is the key factor in North Carolina’s window tint law. It quantifies how much light can enter the vehicle through the tinted windows. A 5%VLT tint allows only 5% of light to pass through and blocks 95%. It is the darkest tint. A 100% VLT will mean no tint and transparent windows.
For Sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Back Side and Rear Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
For SUVs and Vans:
North Carolina’s window tinting requirements may not apply to certain types of vehicles. These exceptions include the following vechicles:
- Excursion passenger vehicles for sightseeing or travel tours.
- Motor homes designed for temporary living.
- Ambulances transporting wounded, injured, or sick persons.
- Property-hauling vehicles (rear window only). – Limousines.
- Multipurpose vehicles designed for 10 or fewer passengers.
- Law enforcement vehicles.
However, they must also follow the understated rules:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Back Side and Rear Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Window Tint Reflection in North Carolina
Some window tints can reflect incoming light, reducing glare and heat. Here are the reflection rules in the state:
- Front Side and Back Side Windows for both Sedans and SUVs/Vans: Must not be more than 20% reflective.
Additional Window Tint Rules
North Carolina’s regulations cover more than just tint darkness and reflection:
- Side Mirrors: Required if the back window is tinted.
- Restricted Colors: RED, AMBER, and YELLOW tints are not permitted.
- Tint Variance: Up to a 3% variance is allowed.
- Medical Exceptions: Certain medical conditions can warrant exemptions for special tint.
- Stickers: No general tinting legality sticker is needed, but a medical exemption sticker is required if applicable.
Laws at a glance
| Vehicle Type | Window | Reflectivity | Other Restrictions | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Front Side | Back Side | Rear | |||
| Passenger Cars (sedans, coupes, hatchbacks) | Tint not more than 5 inches below the top or below the AS-1 line | Up to 32% VLT | Up to 32% VLT | Up to 32% VLT | No more than 20% reflective | Red, amber, and yellow are prohibited; Dual side mirrors for back tinted windows. |
| Multi-Purpose Vehicles (minivans, trucks, SUVs, Limousines) | Tint not more than 5 inches below the top or below AS-1 line | Up to 32% VLT | Any tint darkness | Any tint darkness | No more than 20% reflective | Red, amber, and yellow are prohibited; Dual side mirrors for back tinted windows. |
What is the Darkest Legal Tint in NC?
Tinted windows in North Carolina cannot be darker than 32% as measured by a state-approved window tint meter. However, windshield tint shouldn’t extend more than 5 inches below the top or past the AS1 line, whichever is longer.
NC Window Tint Ticket Cost
Getting ticketed for illegal window tint in North Carolina can lead to a $50 fine. Including court costs, the total may amount to $238.
How to Pass NC Inspection with Tinted Windows?
For a vehicle to pass the NC safety inspection, the window tint cannot be darker than 32% according to a North Carolina-approved window tint meter. Moreover, if the windshield’s tint goes beyond 5 inches from the top or below the AS1 line, it won’t pass.
Medical Exemption
Window tinting exceptions are typically made on the grounds of medical need or another similar justification. In the context of North Carolina, certain medical conditions may warrant an exception to the standard window tinting regulations. A few examples of these conditions might include:
- Lupus
- Sunlight allergy
- Melanoma or other skin cancers
- Photosensitivity
- Other conditions might be exacerbated by exposure to sunlight.
To obtain a medical exception in North Carolina:
- A person would typically need a signed statement from a licensed physician indicating the medical necessity for darker window tinting.
- The statement should include the level of tint recommended due to the medical condition.
- The vehicle owner might need to keep the medical exception documentation in the vehicle at all times to present to law enforcement when needed.
- The vehicle registration may have the window tint medical exception annotated, so law enforcement will be aware when accessing registration details.
It’s essential to understand that not all states have the same rules or exceptions. If someone believes they qualify for a medical exception, they should check with their local DMV or another appropriate agency for specific requirements and processes.
Also, keep in mind that even with a medical exception, there might still be limits on how dark the tint can be. The intent is to balance the driver’s medical needs with the safety concerns of law enforcement officers and other drivers.
FAQs
1. Can a cop pull you over for a tint in NC?
Yes, if law enforcement suspects that your window tint is darker than the state’s legal limit, they can pull you over to check its compliance.
2. How much is a tint ticket in NC?
An illegal window tint ticket in North Carolina costs $50. With additional court costs, the total can reach up to $238.
3. Does a tint ticket affect insurance in NC?
Yes, receiving a ticket for illegal window tint can potentially affect your car insurance rate, as with any other violation.
4. Can I get away with a 30% tint in NC?
Yes, since the legal limit for window tint in North Carolina for most windows is 35%, a 30% tint would be within the allowable range.
In conclusion, window tinting laws in North Carolina are in place to ensure safety for all road users. Always ensure your vehicle’s tint adheres to the state’s regulations to avoid penalties and ensure clear visibility while driving.
W
Amos Beaumont, who grew up in Asheville, North Carolina, has a real love for cars. Even though he didn’t go to college, his fascination with vehicles made him an authority on tinted windows. He runs a popular blog where this hip, self-educated hobbyist discusses the skill and advantages of tinting car windows.