New York Tint Laws were legislated in 1991 for the safety of drivers and passengers travelling on roads.
New York window tinting laws permits driver to apply the tinting materials on Front windshield but it must pass 70 percent of Visible light. Visible light transmission is the crucial factor in window tinting as the darkness of tint depends on the VLT percentage. However, non-reflective tint material can be applied to the top 6 inches or uppermost portion known as AS-1 line.
Check out the below sections to explore the legal tint limitations for Cars and SUVs operated in New York.
Overview of New York Tint Laws
The below infographic shows the legal tint limits in terms of tint darkness and reflective tint. Vehicle owners and drivers are advised to follow New York Tint Laws to avoid tint tickets.
Darkest Legal Tint in New York
The darkest allowed tint percentage, Tint reflection, and restricted tint color details for Cars & SUV or MPV type vehicles are mentioned in the below tables:
Tint Darkness For Sedan or Coupe
| State | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Rear Window | Windshield | Tint Reflection | Other Restrictions |
| New York | 70% or more | 70% or more | Any darkness | Non-reflective Tint above AS-1 line or 6 inches from Top | Metallic or mirror-like appearance is restricted. | None |
Tint Darkness For SUV or Vans
| State | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Rear Window | Windshield | Tint Reflection | Other Restrictions |
| New York | 70% or more | Any | Any | Non-reflective Tint above AS-1 line or 6 inches from Top | Metallic or mirror-like appearance is restricted. | None |
Window Tint Reflection
According to the New York Window Tinting Laws, Metallic, Shiny or mirrored-like tinting materials are not allowed for all windows. These type of materials reflect light and produces glare which may cause discomfort for other drivers and passengers.
The same rule is applicable for both Sedan and SUV or Trucks. Hence, drivers are encouraged to install the right type of window tinting materials which is in accordance of the state laws.
Other Rules and Regulations
There are some other rules which are required to be followed by motorists:
- Dual Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are mandatory if the back side windows or rear window is tinted below 70% VLT.
- Restricted Tint Colors: No tint colors are specifically prohibited.
- Certificates: Window film manufacturers do not need to certify the tinting materials they sell in the state.
- Stickers: Sticker or label to certify the compliance with tinting laws is required to display on vehicle windows.
Medical Exemptions
Any individual who needs to get shielded from direct sunrays can apply for the medical exemption due to certain medical conditions. A motor vehicle belonging to such person or in which such person is an habitual passenger shall be exempted from tinting rules upon issuance of medical exemption certificate.
The application for medical exemption must includes the statement of licensed doctor or physician about applicant’s medical condition. which requires waiver from tinting rules. The commissioner shall only grant exemption if the medical condition certified by the physician is on a list of medical conditions prepared by the commissioner.
Effective from December, 20 , 2017, New York State Health department regulations have been updated with additional medical conditions that may qualify for tint waiver. The updated list of medical conditions which quality for the tint waiver are listed as below:
- albinism
- chronic actinic dermatitis/actinic reticuloid
- dermatomyositis
- lupus erythematosus
- porphyria
- xeroderma (pigmentosa) pigmentosum
- severe drug photosensitivity
- photophobia associated with an ophthalmic or neurological disorder
- any other condition or disorder causing severe photosensitivity
If the exemption is granted, Commissioner shall issue a sticker to identify the motor vehicle is authorize to install lower tints due to medical conditions.
In case of any further questions about Medical exemptions, you may consult with New York DMV.
Penalties for Violating Tint Laws
Drivers who have installed illegal window tint may get a tint ticket of $150 – $200 for the first offense. However second and subsequent offenses may cost you $200 to $300 for violating tinting laws of New York State. Depending on severity of the violation, you may need to pay the court fee if court appearance is required. Further, Cops may ask the driver to remove the illegal tints from vehicle windows. Even the vehicle cannot pass the inspection due to illegal tinted windows.
Hence, Everyone must respect the state laws to avoid inconveniences and chances to get pulled over by the police. Police test the illegal window tints using an electronic device known as Tint Meter or window tint reader.
Frequently Asked Questions
If any person caught violating window tinting rules of New York, he may get a tint ticket of $150 to $200 for the first offense. Second and subsequent offense may result in heavy fines ranging from $200 to $300 depending on severity of violation. However some violations requires driver to appear in the court, that will cost additional amount in form of court fee.