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 Rhode Island, traffic laws regulate the amount of window tint on motor vehicles by specifying the required Visible Light Transmission (VLT). Rhode Island law mandates that the front side windows must allow more than 70% of light in. The back side and rear windows can have any level of darkness. The state also specifies the amount of Visual Light Reflection (VLR) allowed for window tinting. For the front side windows, the VLR must not exceed 20%. Rhode Island does provide exemptions for certain vehicles and medical conditions. For instance, vehicles like limousines may have different regulations, and individuals with specific medical conditions can obtain an exemption if they have documentation from a licensed physician. Violations of window tint laws are typically considered 'fix-it' tickets, meaning that if the issue is corrected within a specified period, and an authorized person (such as a local police officer) verifies the correction, the court may dismiss the ticket upon payment of a small fine. Failure to correct the window tint or to pay the fine can result in additional tickets, which may affect one's driving record, and non-appearance in court may lead to a warrant for arrest.