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 Vermont, window tint laws are regulated under Vermont Statutes Title 23, Section 1125. These laws specify the amount of light that must pass through car windows, which is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT). In Vermont, the front side windows must allow more than 35% of the light to pass through. The back side and rear windows can have any level of darkness. The law also requires that the window tint must not be more reflective than a standard window, addressing the Visual Light Reflection (VLR) aspect. If a vehicle owner is cited for illegal window tint in Vermont, it is considered a correctable violation. The owner can rectify the issue by removing or replacing the tint to meet legal standards, pay a fine, and have the correction verified by an authorized person, such as a local police officer. If the issue is not corrected within the specified period, the owner may face additional fines and the citation may become part of their driving record. Failure to pay the fine or appear in court can result in a warrant for arrest. Vermont also recognizes medical exemptions for window tint if the driver or passenger has a condition that necessitates protection from the sun, and they have documentation from a licensed medical professional.