There’s no doubt that cars with tinted windows look cool, but do you know the tint laws in New York? If you have tinted windows or plan to get your car windows tinted, you are in the right place. We’ve gathered all the legal information you need to know about NY tint laws.
Contents
First, Let me Explain What VLT Means?
VLT Visible Light Transmission is the percent of visible light that gets through your car windows. In other words, the lower the VLT%, the darker the tint gets. For example, 5 % would be a very dark tint. Furthermore, the state of New York has a different VLT% for front and back windows, as you can see below.
Legal Tint in NY for Passenger vehicles
- Windshield: Non-reflective 70% ( any darkness for the top 6 inches)
- Front side windows: 70% VLT
- Backside windows: 70% VLT
- Rear window: Any VLT % (side mirrors needed)
Legal Tint in NY for Multi-purpose Vehicles
- Windshield: Non-reflective 70% ( any darkness for the top 6 inches)
- Front side windows: 70% VLT
- Backside windows: Any VLT %
- Rear window: Any VLT % (side mirrors needed)
NY window Tint Law – Regulations
NY Window Tint law- Medical Exemption
To apply for authorization from the DMV, The Driver must obtain a letter signed by a physician or optometrist indicating that the special window treatment or application is a medical necessity.
NY-APPLICATION FOR TINTED WINDOW EXEMPTION-PDF
Side mirrors
side mirrors needed if the rear window is tinted
Tint Reflection
The state law prohibits a solar reflective greater than 30%
Color Tint
No restrictions.
Window Tint Certification / Label
The state is not clear about this.
FAQ – NY Tint Laws
- Can I tint my windshield? yes, you can 70% and any darkness tint above the top 6 inches
- What is the Legal Tint in NY? It varies. It all depends on the window and vehicle. ( please check the infographic above for more details).
- Are tinted windows illegal in NY? No. But you must follow the proper limit window tint according to the state law.
- What is the darkest legal tint in NY? Any percentage/ darkness allowed for certain windows.
- Is 20% tint legal in NY? yes, but no all windows can have 20%.
Benefits of Window Tinting
Window tinting blocks up to 99% of the UV rays. The car interior cools by 60%. It also can help protect from ultraviolet radiation and help protect your car’s interior from cracking or fading and looking worn-out. Another great benefit is the level of privacy, which can prevent someone who walks by to peer inside.
Car Window Tint Cost
In general, the cost may vary; for example, a basic tint for a sedan car using the classic film can cost less than $150 per vehicle. However, suppose you want a top-quality film such as ceramic window tint. In that case, it can cost up to $400 per vehicle. Of course, all depend on different factors (number of windows, type of tint, warranty). On the other hand, a cheaper option for professional tinting services is a DIY tint kit, which usually costs less than $100.
Sources
NEW YORK LEGISLATURE – WINDOW TINTING
Note: Keep in mind that New York tint laws can change daily and be interpreted differently in your city or county. To be sure, we recommend double-checking our information with your local DMV or Law Enforcement Authorities. Furthermore, please let us know if there are any further changes to be made.