As you drive through New York’s bustling streets and scenic landscapes, you’re likely aware of the importance of clear visibility and road safety. In the same way, you understand the need for privacy and comfort within your vehicle.
However, did you know that New York has specific window tinting laws that balance these two concerns? From windshield and front side windows to rear window exemptions, there are rules to follow to avoid citations and guarantee a safe driving experience. But what exactly are these laws, and how can you certify you’re in compliance?
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Window Tinting Regulations in NY
When driving in New York, it’s essential to understand the state’s window tinting regulations to avoid fines and penalties.
New York tinting laws dictate that windshield and front side windows must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through, certifying a minimum Visible Light Transmission of 70%. This means that window tinting can’t block more than 30% of light.
Additionally, rear window tinting is permitted if your vehicle has outside rear-view mirrors on both sides providing a clear view behind the vehicle.
It’s vital to comply with these window tint rules to avoid citations and guarantee road safety. Moreover, certain medical conditions may qualify for exemptions from light transmittance limits, but an Application for Tinted Window Exemption (MV-80W) is required.
Automotive Window Tint Simulator
Move the slider above to see how dark the tint will look. Usually, the actual tint will appear with 0-5% variation than what you see here.
Vehicle Types and Exemptions
Understanding the vehicle types subject to New York’s window tinting regulations is vital to guarantee adherence.
As a vehicle owner in New York, you should know that sedans, station wagons, hardtops, coupes, and hatchbacks are all subject to window tint law.
However, certain vehicles are exempt, including ambulances, hearses, buses, church-owned vehicles, and limousines.
Additionally, if you have a medical condition such as albinism or lupus erythematosus, you may be eligible for an exemption.
To apply, you’ll need to submit an Application for Tinted Window Exemption (MV-80W), which will be reviewed and approved by the New York State Health department if deemed medically essential.
Illegal Window Tinting Activities
You should be aware that selling or installing non-compliant window tinting is illegal and can result in fines and penalties.
Additionally, operating a vehicle with illegal window tinting can lead to citations and legal consequences.
It’s essential to understand the illegal sales practices and window tint violations to avoid these outcomes.
Illegal Sales Practices
Get caught up in illegal window tinting activities and you’ll face a world of trouble.
As a consumer, it’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with buying and installing non-compliant window tints.
- Selling or offering for sale non-compliant glass can result in fines and penalties for the seller.
- You may end up with a product that’s illegal to use on the road.
- Operating a vehicle with non-compliant glass can lead to citations and legal consequences for you.
- You may be putting yourself and others at risk due to compromised road safety.
Window Tint Violations
Window tint violations can land you in hot water, and it’s crucial to comprehend the gravity of these infractions.
If you operate a vehicle with non-compliant New York window tint, you can expect citations and legal consequences. Violating window tinting regulations can result in fines of up to $150.
In fact, nearly a million window tint tickets have been issued in New York over the last 10 years. Illegal window tint can also cause your vehicle to fail inspection, resulting in additional costs and inconvenience.
Law enforcement can issue citations for non-compliant window tinting, and manufacturers, installers, and retailers don’t need to certify tint as meeting state laws.
Certify you comply with New York’s window tint law, which requires a minimum of 70% visible light allowed through the tint.
Window Tint Shades and Reflection
When selecting a window tint for your vehicle in New York, you’ll need to ponder the allowed shades and reflection rules to guarantee compliance with state regulations.
You’ll want to choose a tint color that meets the specified visible light transmission requirements, which vary depending on the type of vehicle and window location.
It’s essential to understand the rules governing tint reflection, as certain mirrored or metallic appearances are prohibited on certain windows.
Window Tint Colors
Your car’s exterior is a reflection of your personal style, and the tint of your windows plays a significant role in that aesthetic.
In New York, the legal window tint colors are limited to guarantee safety on the road.
When choosing a tint, ponder the level of darkness you prefer, as well as the amount of light you want to let in.
- Charcoal: A dark, sleek option that blocks out most of the light.
- Smoke: A medium-dark tint that adds a touch of mystery to your vehicle.
- Bronze: A warm, golden tint that reduces glare without blocking out too much light.
- Ceramic: A high-tech, neutral-colored tint that provides maximum UV protection.
Remember to check the legal limits on window tint darkness in New York before making a final decision.
Tint Reflection Rules
In New York State, one critical aspect of window tinting is often overlooked: tint reflection rules.
In the realm of window tinting, you should be aware that tint reflection is a pivotal consideration.
In New York, the top six inches of your windshield must have a non-reflective tint to guarantee that glare doesn’t impair your vision or that of other road users.
This is a paramount safety requirement, and you must comply with it to avoid penalties.
Failure to adhere to these tint reflection rules can lead to fines and penalties, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with New York’s tint laws.
Allowed Tint Shades
New York’s allowed tint shades are crucial to understanding the state’s window tinting laws.
You need to know the specific shades allowed for different windows to guarantee compliance.
- Windshield: 70% VLT with non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches
- Front and Back Side windows (Sedans): at least 70% of visible light must pass through, with no mirrored or metallic appearance
- Back Side windows (SUVs and Vans): any darkness is permitted
- Window tint reflection: allowed as long as it doesn’t have a mirrored or metallic appearance
New York Tint Law Exceptions
What exemptions exist for New York‘s window tint laws? As a vehicle owner in New York, you may be wondering if there are any exceptions to the state’s window tint law.
Yes, there are certain exemptions that allow for tinted windows with varying degrees of darkness. Ambulances, hearses, buses, church-owned vehicles, and limousines are exempt from New York window tint laws, allowing them to have any tint darkness.
Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as albinism, lupus erythematosus, porphyria, chronic actinic dermatitis, and dermatomyositis, qualify for exemptions from New York window tint laws. These medical conditions require protection from the sun’s harmful rays, and tinted windows provide a necessary solution.
Benefits and Services Offered
Beyond complying with New York’s window tint laws, you’ll want to guarantee your vehicle, home, or commercial building receives premium window tinting services.
Auto Lovers offers expert installation and maintenance services, ensuring high-quality window tinting solutions that meet NY window tint law standards.
Their legal tinting services provide a range of benefits, including:
- Reduced glare and resistance to interior fading
- Blocking of 99% of UV rays
- Improved vehicle appearance with a tinted vehicle
- Customizable tint shades to suit your preferences
With a lifetime warranty on tinting services, you can trust Auto Lovers to deliver exceptional results for your auto, home, or commercial building.
