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 New York State, window tint laws are defined under Article 9 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law. The law specifies that the front side windows and windshield of a passenger vehicle must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through, which corresponds to a 70% VLT. The rear side windows and rear window can have any level of darkness if the vehicle has outside rearview mirrors on both sides. The windshield may have non-reflective tint along the top, to the AS-1 line marked by the manufacturer or six inches from the top. The VLT for the front side windows must be certified by the manufacturer on the tint film. New York also requires a sticker to identify legal tinting between the film & glass on the driver’s side window. Reflective or mirrored tints are not permitted on any windows. Exemptions are available for medical reasons with proper documentation from a physician. Violations of the window tint law are considered traffic infractions, and failure to comply with a fix-it ticket can lead to fines, additional tickets, and potentially a warrant for arrest if court dates are missed.