Vermont Window Tint Laws: Complete Legal Guide
Vermont has relatively lenient window tint regulations compared to many states, but you still need to follow specific rules to avoid fines and vehicle inspection failures. Breaking Vermont's tint laws can result in fix-it tickets, fines, and rejection during your annual vehicle inspection. Understanding what's legal in your state before applying tint—or choosing a shop—saves you time, money, and hassle down the road.
Quick Reference Table
| Window | Legal VLT % | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front Windshield | 70% | Only above the AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | 70% | Must allow at least 70% light transmission |
| Rear Side Windows | No limit | Any darkness allowed |
| Rear Window | No limit | Any darkness allowed |
Understanding VLT (Visible Light Transmission)
VLT percentage measures how much visible light passes through your tint. A 70% VLT tint is very light—it blocks only 30% of incoming light—while a 20% VLT is significantly darker and blocks 80% of light. The higher the VLT number, the lighter the tint.
Vermont's law focuses on the front of your vehicle because the driver needs clear visibility to the road and side windows. Your rear windows and back window have no VLT restrictions, which means you can apply dark tint there without legal consequence.
Front Windshield Rules
Your front windshield can only be tinted above the AS-1 line, which is the manufacturer's demarcation line at the top of the windshield where the dashboard meets the glass. Any tint applied above that line must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
This means you cannot apply a dark tint strip across the entire windshield. The AS-1 line restriction exists because it protects your direct line of sight. If you're unsure where your AS-1 line is, your tint installer can identify it during your consultation.
Side Window Rules
Vermont requires both front side windows—driver and passenger—to allow a minimum of 70% visible light transmission. This is one of the more permissive requirements in the country. A 70% tint is barely noticeable to most people; it appears almost clear when looking through it, though it does reduce glare and UV rays moderately.
Rear side windows have no legal restrictions in Vermont. You can apply any darkness level to windows behind the driver, including limo tint or complete blackout. Many Vermont drivers take advantage of this by tinting rear windows dark for privacy while keeping front windows compliant.
Rear Window Rules
Vermont places no restrictions on your rear window (back glass). You're free to apply any level of tint darkness to your vehicle's back glass. This is standard across most states, as the rear window doesn't affect the driver's forward visibility and passengers sitting behind rarely need to see clearly behind the vehicle.
If your vehicle has dual side mirrors, you have extra visibility, which might be one reason why regulators don't restrict rear tint. However, even vehicles without dual mirrors can tint their rear windows legally in Vermont.
Restricted Colors
Vermont does not prohibit any specific tint colors. Red, amber, and blue tints are all technically legal as long as they meet VLT requirements. However, reflective or mirrored tints are prohibited. Your tint cannot have a mirror-like finish that reflects light back outward.
While unusual colors aren't banned, keep in mind that law enforcement may be more likely to pull over a vehicle with highly unusual tint colors, even if technically legal. A standard gray, smoke, or neutral brown tint is your safest choice if you want to avoid unwanted attention.
Medical Exemptions
Vermont does allow medical exemptions for window tint. If you have a medical condition—such as photosensitivity, lupus, porphyria cutanea tarda, or severe sun sensitivity—you may qualify for an exemption that allows darker tint than the standard 70% VLT limit on front windows.
To obtain a medical exemption, you'll need to submit a written request with your vehicle registration and a statement from a licensed healthcare provider explaining your medical condition and why darker tint is medically necessary. Contact the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles for the current application process and required documentation. Once approved, you'll receive written authorization to carry in your vehicle.
Penalties for Illegal Tint
Vermont law enforcement issues citations for tint violations during traffic stops or vehicle inspections. A first violation typically results in a fix-it ticket, meaning you have a set window of time (usually 10 days) to remove the illegal tint and have an officer or inspector sign off on the correction.
If you don't correct the violation within the allowed timeframe, the fine can range from $25 to $100 or more. More importantly, your vehicle will fail inspection until the tint is corrected. Since Vermont requires annual vehicle inspections, illegal tint will prevent you from registering your vehicle legally.
During inspection, technicians have the authority to reject any vehicle with non-compliant tinting. The safest approach is to ensure your tint meets Vermont's standards before applying it.
Find a Local Vermont Tint Shop
Choosing a certified, knowledgeable tint installer in Vermont is the easiest way to ensure you stay compliant with state law. A professional shop will measure your windows, calculate the correct VLT percentage, and apply tint that passes inspection.
Visit TintingSource.com to find trusted window tinting shops near you in Vermont. Our directory connects you with local installers who understand Vermont's tint laws and can answer your questions about medical exemptions, color options, and durability. Get started today and drive with confidence, knowing your tint is legal and professionally installed.