As you prepare to hit the roads in North Carolina, you’re likely wondering what’s allowed in terms of window tinting. You’ve probably seen cars with tinted windows and wondered if yours meets the state’s standards. The good news is that North Carolina’s laws are relatively straightforward, but there are some nuances to be aware of.
For instance, did you know that the minimum visible light transmission is 32%, but there are exemptions for certain vehicles and medical conditions? You’ll want to make sure you’re in compliance to avoid fines and failed safety inspections – but what exactly does compliance look like in regard to?
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Window Tinting Requirements
When you get your vehicle inspected in North Carolina, you’ll need to verify your window tinting meets the state’s requirements.
The window tint laws in North Carolina specify that tinted windows can’t measure darker than 32 percent with a North Carolina-approved window tint meter.
Additionally, the tint on your windshield can’t extend more than 5 inches below the top of the windshield or below the AS-1 line of the windshield, whichever is longer.
These window tint rules are outlined in G.S. 20-127.
During a safety inspection, vehicles with after-factory window tinting will be checked at an additional charge of $10.
Make sure your window tinting meets these specifications to avoid any issues.
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.
Restrictions and Exceptions
While getting familiar with North Carolina’s window tinting laws, you’ll find that certain vehicles are exempt from the standard regulations.
These exemptions vary based on vehicle type and purpose. For instance, excursion passenger vehicles, motor homes, ambulances, and property-hauling vehicles are exempt from window tinting requirements.
Additionally, limousines, law enforcement vehicles, and multipurpose vehicles are also exempt. Certain vehicles designed for occasional off-road operation are exempt too.
Moreover, vehicles with a medical exception issued by NCDMV are exempt from window tinting requirements. It’s vital to understand these exemptions to guarantee compliance with North Carolina’s window tint law, which regulates VLT, side and rear windows, and windshield tinting.
Medical Exceptions and Permits
If you suffer from a photosensitivity to light, you can apply for a medical exception permit through the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles Medical Review Program.
This permit allows you to tint your windows with a higher Visible Light Transmission (VLT) than the standard window tint law in North Carolina. With a medical exception, you’re permitted to have a 70% VLT, which is higher than the standard 35% VLT.
Once approved, you’ll receive a medical permit sticker to display in the lower left-hand corner of your rear window. Remember to carry the permit with you, as failure to display it properly can result in a $200 fine.
You can have up to two medical permits at a time, and each permit is valid for up to five years.
Window Tint Darkness in NC
When it comes to window tint darkness in North Carolina, you need to know the specific rules for sedans and SUVs/vans.
For sedans, front and back side windows must allow more than 35% of light in, while SUVs/vans have more flexibility with their back side and rear windows.
You’ll want to understand the VLT percentage requirements, including the minimum 35% for sedans and SUVs/vans, to confirm your window tint is compliant with state laws.
VLT Percentage Requirements
In North Carolina, understanding the VLT percentage requirements is crucial to guarantee your vehicle’s window tint complies with state laws. The VLT percentage measures the percentage of light allowed through car windows, with a lower percentage indicating a darker tint. To certify adherence, it’s essential to know the specific VLT percentages for your vehicle type.
| Vehicle Type | Window | VLT Percentage Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Sedans | Windshield | Non-reflective above AS-1 line or top 5 inches |
| Sedans | Front and Back Side Windows | At least 35% |
| Sedans | Rear Window | At least 35% |
| SUVs/Vans | Front Side Windows | At least 35% |
Sedans and SUVs Rules
You’ll want to pay close attention to the window tint darkness rules in North Carolina, particularly if you own a sedan or SUV.
In the case of sedans, the windshield can have tint above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches with non-reflective tint.
The front side windows must allow at least 35% of light in, with a maximum 20% reflectivity, and the same applies to the rear side and rear windows.
SUVs and vans follow similar rules, with the added flexibility of having any darkness of tint on the rear side and rear windows, as long as it’s not more than 20% reflective.
Understanding these window tint law specifics will guarantee you’re in compliance with North Carolina regulations.
Tint Reflection Limits
Understanding the specifics of window tint reflection limits is vital for North Carolina drivers, especially after familiarizing themselves with the sedan and SUV rules.
In the realm of tint darkness, you need to know the visible light transmission (VLT) percentage for your vehicle. In North Carolina, sedans have a VLT percentage of 35% for front and back side windows and the rear window, meaning they must permit at least 35% of light in.
For SUVs and vans, there’s no VLT percentage restriction for back side and rear windows, but front side windows must still permit more than 35% of light in.
Verify your window tint complies with North Carolina’s window tint law to avoid any issues.
Window Tint Reflection in NC
Frequently, drivers in North Carolina wonder about the window tint reflection laws in their state.
You need to know that the window tint reflection in NC is governed by the North Carolina window tint law. This law dictates that the window film on your windshield and front side windows can’t have a reflective tint that’s more than 20% reflective.
Some key points to keep in mind:
- The tint on your rear window can have a reflective tint, but it can’t be darker than 32 percent VLT.
- The windshield tint can’t extend more than 5 inches from the top of the windshield, or below the AS-1 line.
- The rear window tint can be as dark as you like, as long as you have a rearview mirror.
- Make sure to check the manufacturer’s certification to verify that your window film meets the state’s requirements, and confirm that it complies with the regulations.
Other NC Window Tint Rules
When it comes to window tinting in North Carolina, you need to be aware of the specific rules that govern tint variance limits and restricted window colors.
For instance, you’re allowed a 3% variance in tint darkness, but you can’t use certain colors like red, amber, or yellow for your window tint.
Understanding these rules is vital to guarantee you’re in compliance with state regulations.
Tint Variance Limits
Across North Carolina, motorists need to be aware of the nuances surrounding window tinting laws, particularly in regards to tint variance limits.
In the realm of tint darkness, you’re allowed a 3% variance, meaning a window tint with a VLT of 32% would be considered compliant with the law.
In terms of key points,
- A 3% variance is allowed for tint darkness in North Carolina.
- Manufacturers and vendors of window tint don’t need to certify the film they sell as meeting state rules.
- If you have a medical exemption, you’ll need to display a sticker in the lower left-hand corner of the rear window to avoid fines.
- Failure to properly display the sticker can result in a $200 fine.
Restricted Window Colors
You’ll need to comply with North Carolina’s restricted window color rules, which prohibit certain shades on your vehicle’s windows.
The state bans any tint or film with a RED or reflective material, as they can obstruct your view or blind other drivers.
Additionally, you can’t use any darker colors that would reduce the VLT (Visible Light Transmission) below the allowed percentage.
This means you can’t have windows that are too dark or have a mirror-like finish.
If you install an illegal tint, you’ll be fined and may even have your vehicle impounded.
Make sure to choose a tint that meets North Carolina’s regulations to avoid any hassles.
Window Tint Laws and Fines
How much will you have to pay if you’re caught with illegal window tint in North Carolina? The answer is a $50 fine plus court costs, which can total up to $238.
Additionally, failing to display a medical exemption sticker can result in a $200 fine.
- You can receive a window tint ticket if law enforcement determines your vehicle has non-compliant tint.
- Non-compliant vehicles won’t pass the North Carolina safety inspection, which includes a window tint inspection.
- A window tint ticket can affect your car insurance rates, making it essential to comply with the North Carolina window tint law.
- Remember, vehicles with window tinting that doesn’t meet specifications aren’t permitted and can be cited by law enforcement.
Exemptions and Special Cases
In North Carolina, certain vehicles are exempt from the state’s window tinting requirements, allowing for varying degrees of tint darkness.
You might be surprised to learn that excursion passenger vehicles, motor homes, ambulances, and property-hauling vehicles are exempt from these rules. Limousines, law enforcement vehicles, and multipurpose vehicles also fall under this exemption.
If you have a medical exception, you can apply through the Vehicles Medical Review Program to get a medical exception sticker, allowing you to have darker window tints.
Additionally, certain vehicles designed for occasional off-road operation are exempt, as are vehicles with special features designed for specific purposes.
