All states have traffic laws that limit the amount of window tint on motor vehicles—often by specifying the amount of visible light transmission (VLT) that is required. VLT is the amount of light that is transmitted through the window and into the vehicle. For example, a 70%VLT means that 70% of light will pass through the window and 30% will be reflected. Thus, a lower VLT indicates a darker film or tint.

Another term to know is visual light reflection (VLR)—which is the opposite of VLT. VLR is the amount of solar energy that is reflected off the glass and away from the inside of the vehicle.

In most states tickets or citations for illegal window tint are known as fix-it tickets and the ticket or citation will indicate that it is a correctable violation of traffic laws. For example, if you fix the window tint problem within the required period, pay a small fine, and get the signature of an authorized person (a local police officer) the court may dismiss the ticket.

But if you fail to fix the window tint problem within the required period you must pay the fine for the violation and you may be issued another ticket that will be part of your driving record. And if you fail to pay the ticket or appear in court on the hearing date the court may issue a warrant for your arrest.

Window tint laws vary from state to state and some states have exemptions for certain vehicles such as limousines and recognize medical exemptions when the driver has a written statement from a licensed medical doctor, ophthalmologist, or optometrist.

In Nebraska, window tint laws are defined under Nebraska Revised Statute 60-6,294. The state specifies the amount of light that must pass through car windows, which is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT). For passenger cars, the front side windows must allow more than 35% VLT, while the back side and rear windows can have any level of darkness. For SUVs and vans, the front side windows must also allow more than 35% VLT, but the back side and rear windows can have any level of darkness. The law also regulates the reflectiveness of the tint, stating that the front side and back side windows must not be more than 35% reflective. Nebraska recognizes medical exemptions for individuals who require a lower VLT due to a specific medical condition, and such exemptions must be carried in the vehicle. Violations of the window tint laws are typically treated as correctable violations, where the driver can avoid some penalties by fixing the issue within a specified period and providing proof to the court. Failure to comply can result in fines, additional tickets, and potentially a warrant for arrest if court directives are ignored.