South Carolina Tint Laws: Everything You Need to Know
Discover the legal window tint in SC
Hey there! Ready to get the lowdown on window tint laws in South Carolina? We’ve got all the important details to keep your car’s tint game on point and within legal boundaries!
It is essential for vehicle owners in the state to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance and avoid any legal complications. In this detailed overview, we will explore the specific tint rules for various vehicles. Whether you are a resident or a visitor in South Carolina, staying informed about the legal tint limits will enable you to drive confidently within the state’s guidelines.
What Does VLT Mean According to South Carolina State Law?
Before we start, you must learn the tint law-related term VLT. It stands for “Visible Light Transmission,” and refers to the amount of visible light allowed to pass through the window tint material.
In South Carolina, the window tint laws specify the minimum VLT percentage that must be maintained for different windows of a vehicle.
For example, a window with 100% VLT would be completely clear, allowing all visible light to pass through, while a window with 5% VLT would only allow 5% of visible light to pass through, making it significantly darker.
So, What is The Legal Tint in South Carolina
In South Carolina, the tint laws are regulated by the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV). The state has specific guidelines regarding window tint darkness and reflectivity, and it’s crucial for vehicle owners to comply with these regulations to avoid legal issues.
Here are the tint regulations for both passenger cars and multipurpose passenger vehicles (MPVs), which include SUVs and vans, in South Carolina:
Tint Laws for Passenger Car and Station Wagons in South Carolina
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top of the windshield above the AS-1 line (which extends about 5 inches down from the top of the windshield).
- Front Side Windows: Tint is allowed on front side windows. The tint darkness must allow at least 27% of visible light to pass through (VLT of 27% or higher).
- Back Side Windows and Rear Window: There are no specific restrictions on tint darkness for back side windows and the rear window. You are generally allowed to apply any darkness of tint to those windows.
Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in South Carolina
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top of the windshield above the AS-1 line (which extends about 5 inches down from the top of the windshield).
- Front Side Windows: Tint is allowed on front side windows. The tint darkness must allow at least 27% of visible light to pass through (VLT of 27% or higher).
- Rear Side Windows: Tint can be applied to the rear side windows with any darkness.
Rear Window: Tint can be applied to the rear window with any darkness.
Window Tint Reflection in South Carolina - South Carolina Tint Laws 2023
When tinting your vehicle windows in South Carolina, it’s important to be familiar with the regulations regarding tint reflection. While tinted windows can help reduce heat and glare, state law specifies acceptable levels of window reflection. Let’s examine the tint reflection rules for both sedans and
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front-side windows: The use of more than 20% reflective tint on the front-side windows of sedans is not permitted in South Carolina.
Backside windows: Similarly, the backside windows of sedans must not exceed 20% reflective tint.
Tint Reflection for SUV and Vans
- Front-side windows: For SUVs and Vans in South Carolina, the law also restricts the use of more than 20% reflective tint on the front-side windows.
Backside windows: Likewise, the back side windows of SUVs and Vans are not allowed to have more than 20% reflective tint.
Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of South Carolina You Need to Know
- Side Mirrors: South Carolina requires vehicles to have two side mirrors if the rear window is tinted.
- Stickers: The state of South Carolina does not mandate any specific stickers or labels to indicate legal window tinting. However, it’s essential to comply with the visible light transmission (VLT) requirements and other tint laws to avoid any potential legal issues.
- Restricted Colors: South Carolina does not have specific regulations regarding the colors of window tints. However, it’s important to keep in mind that certain colors may alter the appearance of the windows, making them appear non-transparent or reflective, which could potentially lead to law enforcement concerns.
- Certificates: South Carolina does not require certificates or documentation for legally tinted windows. However, it’s advisable to keep records of the window tint installation, including details such as the VLT percentage used, for your reference.
- Penalties: If you are found to be in violation of South Carolina’s window tint laws, you may face penalties, which can include fines and possible orders to remove the illegal tint.
Medical Exemptions: South Carolina provides medical exemptions for individuals who require special window tinting for medical reasons. To qualify for a medical exemption, you must obtain a certificate from a licensed physician stating the specific medical condition that necessitates the use of tinted windows.
South Carolina Tint Laws- FAQ’s
Is 5% tint legal in South Carolina?
No, 5% tint is not legal for front side windows in South Carolina. The state requires a minimum visible light transmission (VLT) of 27% for front side windows, meaning the tint must allow at least 27% of visible light to pass through.
Is 20% tint legal in South Carolina?
No, 20% tint is not legal for front-side windows in South Carolina. The state requires a minimum VLT of 27% for front-side windows.
Is 35% tint legal in South Carolina?
Yes, 35% tint is legal for front side windows in South Carolina. The state requires a minimum VLT of 27%, so 35% tint complies with the law.
Is 50% tint legal in South Carolina?
Yes, 50% tint is legal for front side windows in South Carolina. The state requires a minimum VLT of 27%, and 50% tint meets this requirement.
Is 75% tint legal in South Carolina?
Yes, 75% tint is legal for front side windows in South Carolina. The state requires a minimum VLT of 27%, and 75% tint exceeds this requirement.
What is the legal window tint in South Carolina?
The legal window tint for front side windows in South Carolina must have a minimum VLT of 27%.
What is the darkest legal tint in South Carolina?
The darkest legal tint for front side windows in South Carolina is 27%.
How much is a tint ticket in South Carolina?
The fine for a tint violation in South Carolina may vary depending on the specific circumstances and location of the violation. However, tint tickets typically result in fines, and the amount can range from around $25 to $200 or more.
Most Important Information about Car Window Tinting
Final Words
We hope this guide has provided valuable insights into tint laws in South Carolina. Remember, adhering to the state’s guidelines regarding tint darkness, reflectivity, and VLT is crucial to avoid fines and other potential legal consequences. If you are considering window tinting for your vehicle, be sure to consult the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles or other official sources for the latest information. Drive safely and responsibly, while also enjoying the benefits of properly applied window tint in South Carolina.