When you’re cruising down the Garden State Parkway, you’re not just enjoying the scenic views, but also adhering to the state’s window tinting laws. Like many states, New Jersey has specific regulations governing the level of darkness and reflection allowed on your vehicle’s windows.
But do you know exactly how dark is too dark, or what kind of reflection is prohibited? Understanding these laws is vital to avoid hefty fines from the Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, with penalties reaching up to $1000 for first-time offenders. So, how can you guarantee your ride is compliant, and what exceptions might apply?
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Window Tint Darkness in NJ
When driving in New Jersey, you need to verify your vehicle’s window tint conforms with the state’s laws.
New Jersey Window Tinting laws regulate window tint darkness to guarantee safe driving conditions. The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage measures the amount of light that can pass through the tint.
For sedans, the front windshield and front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through, while the back side and rear windows can have a VLT of 40%.
Jersey allows medical exemptions, permitting darker tints for individuals with certain medical conditions.
Always check the window tint law permits and car window tinting rules before applying a tint, as it can reflect incoming light and affect visibility to certify.
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.
Tint Reflection in New Jersey
In New Jersey, where reflective window tints are a concern, drivers need to be aware of the rules governing tint reflection.
You should know that mirrored or metallic finishes aren’t allowed on your car windows. The state’s window tint laws prohibit any tint that has a reflective quality that can hinder the visibility of objects outside the vehicle.
The VLT (visible light transmission) percentage also affects tint reflection. A lower VLT percentage can increase the mirrored effect, which is why it’s essential to choose a tint darkness that complies with New Jersey’s regulations.
Other NJ Window Tint Rules
You’ve got the reflective tint issue covered, but that’s not all you need to know about New Jersey’s window tint laws.
In terms of light transmission, at least 70% of visible light must be allowed to pass through the front windshield.
Side windows, including driver and passenger windows, must allow at least 50% of visible light to pass through.
Back windows don’t have a specific requirement, but sunscreening materials can be used.
Additionally, if you have a medical exemption, you may be allowed to use a darker tint.
However, you’ll need to obtain a prescription and certification from a licensed physician.
Darkest Legal Tint in NJ
Based on New Jersey’s window tint laws, the darkest legal tint you can have on your vehicle depends on the type of window.
The front side windows must allow at least 70% of light transmission, which means a VLT (Visible Light Transmission) of 70%.
The rear side windows and rear window can have a VLT of 35%, allowing for a darker tint.
SUVs and vans can have a VLT of 35% on all windows, excluding the front windshield.
The tint reflection in New Jersey is limited to 20% reflective material on the front side windows and 35% on the rear side windows and rear window.
Make sure to follow New Jersey window tint rules to avoid penalties from the Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.
Window Tinting Laws in NJ
Across the Garden State, window tinting laws in NJ are in place to guarantee safe driving conditions while also allowing for personalization of vehicles.
When you decide to tint your car’s windows, you need to verify you’re complying with New Jersey’s regulations. The laws dictate the minimum visible light transmission (VLT) allowed, which varies depending on the type of vehicle.
Generally, your window tint should allow at least 70% of light to pass through. However, there are medical exemptions for those who require a darker tint due to a medical condition.
You’ll need to obtain a doctor’s note to qualify for these exemptions. Understanding New Jersey’s window tinting laws is vital to avoid fines and guarantee safe driving.
What Is New Jersey Tint Law
New Jersey’s window tint law is designed to balance safety concerns with personal freedom.
As a resident, you need to understand the rules to avoid getting fined.
- No tints are allowed on windshields.
- No tints are allowed on front side windows.
- Back side windows and rear windows can have any darkness of tint.
- The laws apply equally to sedans and SUVs/vans.
- Medical exemptions are allowed for certain conditions.
Medical Exemption From Tint Law
If you have a medical condition that requires extra protection from the sun, you may be eligible for a medical exemption from New Jersey’s window tint law.
To apply, you’ll need to submit a completed application with a valid prescription from your physician, who’ll also need to complete a portion of the application.
Eligibility Criteria
Several states allow medical exemptions from window tint laws, enabling individuals with certain medical conditions to install window tints that would otherwise be prohibited.
As someone considering car window tinting in New Jersey, you’re probably wondering if you’re eligible for an exemption.
To qualify, you must meet specific eligibility criteria.
These include:
- Having a medical condition that requires a specific VLT percentage, such as photophobia or lupus
- Obtaining a written statement from a licensed physician explaining your condition and the need for a darker window tint
- Meeting New Jersey window tint law requirements for light transmission
- Not having explicit bans on window tinting for your specific vehicle type
- Needing exemptions for special circumstances, such as frequent travel during peak sun hours
Application Process
Your application for a medical exemption from New Jersey’s window tint law begins with a crucial step: submitting a completed application (MVC Sunscreening 1) to the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). You can request the application by emailing [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) or calling 609-984-2973. Make sure to include a valid prescription and a completed Step 4 by a physician to be eligible for medical exemption.
| Step | Requirement | Document |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Submit application | MVC Sunscreening 1 |
| 2 | Review and temporary approval | MVC Sunscreening 2 |
| 3 | Install sunscreening and submit confirmation | MVC Installation Confirmation page |
After submitting the application, the Customer Advocacy Office will review it and issue a temporary approval (MVC Sunscreening 2) essential for 60 days. Once you’ve installed the sunscreening at a licensed facility, submit the MVC Installation Confirmation page to receive the permanent approval document (MVC Sunscreening 4), valid for 48 months.
Penalties for Illegal Tinting
In New Jersey, the consequences of driving with illegally tinted windows can be costly.
If you’re caught, you’ll face penalties that can add up quickly.
- You may face a fine of up to $1,000 for a first-time offense.
- Second-time offenders may face a fine of up to $5,000, and subsequent offenses may result in even higher fines.
- Law enforcement takes window tint laws seriously, so you can expect to be fined if caught.
Fines are based on NJ Statutes 39:3-75.3, which outlines the penalties for violating the state’s window tinting laws.
Failure to comply with New Jersey’s window tinting laws can result in fines, inspection issues, and reduced visibility while driving.
Is Window Tint Legal in NJ
While understanding the penalties for illegal tinting is important, it’s equally essential to know what’s allowed in the Garden State.
In New Jersey, you can legally tint your car’s windows as long as they meet the state’s visibility requirements. For your front side windows, the darkest legal tint is 70% Visible Light Transmission (VLT), allowing 70% of natural light to pass through.
The same rule applies to your rear side windows and rear window. You’re free to choose any percentage of tint for your back seat side windows, but keep in mind that mirrored or metallic appearances are restricted.
Just remember, New Jersey law enforcement takes window tint seriously, and fines can reach up to $1000 for non-compliance.
What Isn’t Legal in NJ
In terms of window tinting in New Jersey, there are specific restrictions you need to be aware of.
In regard to your vehicle’s windows, you’re not allowed to have any tint on your windshield or front seat side windows, and you can’t have metallic or mirrored reflections on either front or back seat side windows.
Failure to comply with these laws can result in a fine for illegal tinting.
Windshield Tint Prohibition
You’re not allowed to tint your windshield in New Jersey, period.
The state’s laws are clear: no tint is permitted on the windshield of either a passenger or multi-purpose vehicle.
The windshield must have zero VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentage, meaning it must allow 100% of visible light to pass through.
Failure to comply with this law can result in a fine for illegal tinting, with penalties ranging from $1000 for the first offense to $5000 for subsequent offenses.
- The New Jersey window tint law prohibits any type of tint or sunscreening material on the windshield, regardless of the medical exemption.
- The strict enforcement of windshield tint prohibition is outlined in NJ Statutes 39:3-75.3.
Don’t even think about trying to get around this law – the authorities take illegal tinting very seriously.
Front Side Window Tint
In New Jersey, front side window tinting is strictly regulated, and it’s essential to understand what’s not allowed.
You can’t have any tint on the front seat side windows of your passenger vehicle.
The window tint laws in New Jersey require a minimum of 70% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) on front side windows to guarantee safe driving conditions.
If you fail to comply, you’ll face a fine for illegal tinting.
Law enforcement authorities in New Jersey strictly enforce these regulations, so don’t take any chances.
Unlike other states, medical exemptions don’t apply to front side window tinting, and no special permits are issued for this purpose.
Make certain to follow the rules to avoid getting pulled over and fined.
Metallic Reflection Prohibition
New Jersey’s window tint laws strictly prohibit metallic or mirrored reflections on both front and back seat side windows.
You should be aware that any reflective tint on your side windows can lead to serious consequences.
- No metallic or mirrored reflections are allowed on back seat side windows in New Jersey.
- Metallic or mirrored reflections are also prohibited on front seat side windows in the state.
- Violating this rule can result in fines for illegal tinting, with first-time offenses potentially resulting in a $1000 fine.
- New Jersey’s window tint laws are strictly enforced by the state’s police department to guarantee safe driving conditions.
- You can get more information on window tint laws and light transmission requirements from the New Jersey DMV to guarantee compliance.
Tint Law References
Medical Exemption Info
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission – Window sun-screening for medical reasons
