Is 20% Tint Legal in New York? VLT Laws Explained
Window tinting can enhance your vehicle's appearance and provide privacy, but New York has strict regulations about how dark your tint can be. Installing illegal window tint in New York can result in fines, failed vehicle inspections, and even points on your driving record. Understanding the state's VLT (Visible Light Transmission) laws before tinting your windows will help you stay compliant and avoid costly penalties.
New York Window Tint Laws at a Glance
| Window | Legal VLT % | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front Windshield | 70% | Only non-reflective tint above AS-1 line permitted |
| Front Side Windows | 70% | Must allow at least 70% of light to pass through |
| Rear Side Windows | 70% | Darkness rules same as front windows |
| Rear Window | 70% | Same 70% VLT requirement applies |
Answer to your question: No, 20% tint is not legal in New York. The state requires a minimum of 70% VLT across all windows, meaning 20% tint is far too dark for any window on your vehicle.
What Is VLT and Why Does It Matter?
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, is a measurement that tells you how much light passes through your window tint. A higher percentage means more light gets through (lighter tint), while a lower percentage means less light passes through (darker tint). If your tint has a 70% VLT rating, that means 70% of the light hitting the window will pass through to the inside of your vehicle.
Police officers and vehicle inspectors use a device called a light meter or tint meter to measure VLT at traffic stops and inspection stations. This tool shines light at your window and calculates the percentage of light that passes through. If your tint measures below New York's legal limit, you'll face violations and fines.
Front Windshield Tinting Rules in New York
In New York, your front windshield can only have non-reflective tint applied above the manufacturer's AS-1 line. The AS-1 line is the line marked by your vehicle's manufacturer that typically runs across the top of the windshield where sun visors would cover. Any tint above this line must allow at least 70% of visible light to transmit through.
Many drivers think they can add a dark band across the top of their windshield, but New York prohibits this. The 70% VLT requirement applies to any tinted area on your front windshield, and the tint must be non-reflective. Reflective or mirrored tints are not permitted on any windows in New York, as they can distract other drivers and interfere with visibility.
Front and Rear Side Window Requirements
Your front and rear side windows are subject to the same 70% VLT standard as your windshield in New York. This means both your driver's side window and front passenger window must allow at least 70% of light through if tinted. The same rule applies to your rear side windows behind the back doors.
Many drivers are surprised to learn that New York doesn't differentiate between front and rear windows—all side windows must meet the same standard. This is stricter than some neighboring states, so if you're considering tinting your vehicle, plan for uniform tinting across all windows to maintain compliance.
Rear Window Tinting Rules
Your rear window (back glass) is also limited to 70% VLT in New York. There are no special exemptions for rear windows, even for vehicles with dual side mirrors. If your vehicle has rear-view mirrors on both sides, you still cannot apply tint darker than 70% VLT to your rear window.
The rear window rule applies equally to sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and trucks. Some states allow darker tinting on rear windows if the vehicle has dual mirrors, but New York maintains the 70% standard across the board.
Tint Color Restrictions in New York
New York prohibits tint in any color that significantly reduces visibility or resembles emergency vehicle lighting. This means red and amber tints are explicitly banned. Blue and green tints are also not permitted. Your tint must be a neutral color—gray, black, or silver—and it cannot be reflective or mirrored in any way.
Colored window tints can be tempting for aesthetic reasons, but they'll result in an inspection failure and a fine. Stick to neutral gray or black tints that are legal and widely available from professional installers.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in New York
New York does allow medical exemptions for window tinting in specific cases. If you have a documented medical condition (such as photosensitivity, lupus, or severe sun sensitivity) that requires darker tinting, you may qualify for an exemption.
To obtain a medical exemption, you'll need to get a letter from your physician describing your medical condition and explaining why darker window tint is medically necessary. You then submit this letter to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles along with your vehicle registration information. The DMV will review your request and issue a medical exemption certificate if approved. Even with an exemption, your tint should be as light as medically possible, and you must carry your exemption certificate in your vehicle at all times.
Penalties for Illegal Window Tint in New York
If you're caught with illegal window tint in New York, you can face a fine ranging from $100 to $150 per violation. More problematic is that illegal tint will cause your vehicle to fail its annual safety inspection. You'll have to remove or lighten your tint and reinspect your vehicle before it's registered again.
Some municipalities in New York issue fix-it tickets, which give you a chance to correct the violation and have the ticket dismissed if you comply within a set timeframe (usually 10 days). However, not all jurisdictions offer this option, so don't assume you'll get a fix-it ticket. The safest approach is to ensure your tint is legal from the start.
Find a Certified Tint Shop in New York
Installing legal window tint requires expertise and quality materials. Professional installers know New York's specific requirements and can help you choose tint that's both compliant and looks great on your vehicle. TintingSource.com is your resource for finding certified window tinting shops near you across New York. Our directory connects you with installers who understand state regulations and can ensure your tint passes inspection the first time.