Kentucky Window Tinting Laws

Photo of author

David Lawrence

Imagine driving down a Kentucky highway on a sunny day, only to be pulled over by a state trooper who’s not impressed with your vehicle’s tinted windows. As it turns out, understanding Kentucky’s window tinting laws is vital to avoid getting into trouble.

You might think you’re safe, but the truth is, the state has specific regulations regarding window darkness, reflection, and glare. For instance, did you know that your windshield must allow at least 90% of visible light transmission? There’s more to it than that, and it’s essential to know the details to avoid fines, misdemeanor charges, or even worse.

Kentucky Window Tinting Laws

Window Tint Darkness Regulations

When it pertains to window tinting, one of the most critical factors to ponder is the level of darkness permitted by law.

In Kentucky, window tint laws dictate that the windshield above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line must allow at least 90% of visible light transmission. For front side windows, the light transmittance must be no less than 35%.

You should guarantee that your window tint complies with these rules to avoid penalties. The percentage of visible light allowed to pass through the tint determines the level of darkness.

Kentucky window tint regulations are in place to certify safe driving conditions. Remember, it’s essential to understand the window tint rules and regulations to avoid any issues with the law.

[carscounsel_tint_calculator show_state=”true” default_state=”KY”]

Reflection and Glare Restrictions

Kentucky’s window tint laws also establish reflection and glare restrictions to guarantee safe driving conditions. You should be aware of these regulations to avoid any legal issues. The state has set specific standards for window tint reflection to ensure that your vehicle’s windows don’t pose a safety risk to you or other drivers.

Window LocationReflection Limit
Front windshieldNo metallic or mirrored finishes
Front side windowsNo more than 25% reflective
Rear windowNo more than 35% reflective

Vehicle Type and Tint Exceptions

In accordance with Kentucky’s window tint laws, certain vehicle types and tint exceptions are exempt from or subject to specific regulations.

You should be aware of these exceptions to guarantee compliance with the law.

  1. Medical Exemptions: You may be eligible for a medical exemption from the window tinting laws if you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint. You’ll need to obtain a tint variance from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
  2. Manufacturers AS-1 Line: Vehicles with a manufacturer’s AS-1 line on the windshield can have a darker tint on the top portion of the windshield.
  3. Rear Window and Door Jamb: Some vehicle types, such as trucks and vans, can have a darker tint on the rear window and door jamb.

Seller and Installer Requirements

As you prepare to purchase or install window tints, it’s essential to understand the seller and installer requirements, which are critical components of Kentucky’s window tint laws.

You should only buy window films from manufacturers that certify their products meet Kentucky’s legal tinting standards. The seller must provide a sticker that identifies the film as compliant with Kentucky law.

When selecting an installer, guarantee they’re familiar with Kentucky’s window tint regulations and can identify the legal tinting levels for your vehicle. Remember, only installers who use certified window films can guarantee compliance with Kentucky law.

Additionally, the installer is required to provide you with a sticker that confirms the film meets Kentucky’s standards.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

One hundred fifty dollars – that’s the minimum fine you’ll face if you’re caught driving a vehicle with illegally tinted windows in Kentucky.

If you’re found guilty of non-compliance, you could be charged with a class B misdemeanor, which can lead to more severe penalties. According to the Kentucky Revised Statutes, law enforcement officers can issue citations to drivers who fail to comply with the state’s window tinting rules and regulations.

  1. Fines: The minimum fine for illegal window tinting is $150, but it can increase depending on the circumstances.
  2. Misdemeanor charges: You could be charged with a class B misdemeanor, which can lead to more severe penalties, including jail time.
  3. Certification issues: If you’re a seller or installer, non-compliance can put your certification at risk, potentially impacting your business.

WikipediaState website

Tint Law References

Maine Statutes Title 29A section 1916: Reflective and tinted glass

Car Window Tinting Laws By State

Click on the state you’re interested in for a complete guide to its tint laws and regulations. If you spot any errors, let us know through our contact page.

StateFront Side WindowsBack Side WindowsRear WindowsWindshield
Alabama32%32%32%6 inches
Alaska70%40%30%5 inches
Arizona33%ANYANYtinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Arkansas25%25%10%5 inches
California70%ANYANY4 inches
Colorado27%27%27%4 inches
Connecticut35%35%ANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Delaware70%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Florida28%15%15%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Georgia32%32%32%6 inches
Hawaii35%35%35%Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield
Idaho35%20%20%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Illinois35%35%35%6 inches
Indiana30%30%30%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Iowa70%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Kansas35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Kentucky35%18%18%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Louisiana40%25%12%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Maine35%35%35%top 4 inches
Maryland35%35%35%top 5 inches
Massachusetts35%35%35%top 6 inches
Michigan35%ANYANYtop4 inches
Minnesota50%50%50%Top 6 inches
Mississippi28%28%28%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 5 inches
Missouri35%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Montana24%14%14%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Nebraska24%20%20%top 6 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Nevada35%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
New Hampshire35%35%35%Allowed for the manufacturer’s AS-1 line
New JerseyIllegalANYANYTop 6 inches
New Mexico20%20%20%5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
New York70%70%70%top 6 inches
North Carolina35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
North Dakota50%ANYANYTop 6 inches
Ohio50%ANYANYTop 5 inches
Oklahoma25%ANYANY5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Oregon35%35%35%Top 6 inches
Pennsylvania70%70%70%Top 3 inches
Rhode Island70%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
South Carolina27%27%27%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
South Dakota35%20%20%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Tennessee35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Texas25%25%25%5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Utah43%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 4 inches
Vermont70%ANYANYILLEGAL
Virginia50%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Washington24%24%24%Top 6 inches
West Virginia35%35%35%Top 5 inches
Wisconsin50%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Wyoming28%28%28%Top 5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
About the author
David Lawrence
David grew up among mechanics and off-road enthusiasts, gaining deep knowledge in car mods, off-roading techniques, and automotive engineering, making him a trusted 4x4 expert.

Leave a Comment