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 West Virginia (WV), traffic laws regulate the amount of window tint on vehicles by specifying the required Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. WV law mandates that the front side windows must allow at least 35% of light in, while the back side and rear windows can have any level of darkness. There is also a specification for the VLT of the windshield, which allows non-reflective tint above the manufacturer's AS-1 line. The state also considers Visual Light Reflection (VLR), which is the measure of light reflected away from the vehicle's interior. WV may issue fix-it tickets for illegal window tint, which are correctable violations. If the tint is corrected within a specified period, a small fine is paid, and an authorized person (such as a local police officer) verifies the correction, the court may dismiss the ticket. Failure to correct the tint within the required period can result in fines and additional tickets that affect one's driving record. Ignoring the ticket or not appearing in court can lead to a warrant for arrest. WV recognizes medical exemptions for window tint if a licensed medical professional provides a written statement. It's important to consult with an attorney or review the current WV state statutes for the most accurate and updated information regarding window tint regulations.