Tennessee Tint Laws: Understanding All the Regulations
Discover the legal window tint in TN
Are you a car owner in Tennessee thinking about getting your windows tinted? Being well-informed about the state’s tint laws is essential.
Understanding the allowable Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages for different window types, requirements for side mirrors, and medical exemptions will help you make informed decisions.
In this blog, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Tennessee Tint Laws, so be sure to read till the end to have all your questions answered.
What Does VLT Mean According to Tennessee Law?
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is a critical factor in determining the amount of light that window tint films installed on car windows are allowed to transmit. It is measured as a percentage, indicating the proportion of visible light that can pass through the tint. In Tennessee, the acceptable VLT for window tints varies depending on the type of vehicle.
Passenger Vehicles, designed primarily for carrying passengers and not used primarily for commercial purposes, have specific VLT limits. On the other hand, Multi-Purpose Vehicles, which include various types of utility vehicles, are subject to different VLT restrictions.
So, What is The Legal Tint in Tennessee?
The enforcement of legal tint regulations in Tennessee falls under the jurisdiction of the Tenessee Motor Vehicle Commission. Tinting laws vary depending on the type of vehicle, such as passenger cars, station wagons, multipurpose passenger vehicles, and recreational vehicles (RVs).
Let’s take a closer look at the specific tint regulations that apply to vehicles in Tennessee.
Tint Laws for Passenger Car and Station Wagons in Tennessee
Let’s delve into the window tint laws that apply to passenger cars and station wagons in Tennessee:
- Windshield: For your windshield, you’re allowed to have a tint strip along the top 5 inches. It should be non-reflective to ensure clear visibility. However, please avoid tinting the rest of the windshield to maintain a clear view of the road.
- Front Side Windows: You can have some tint on your front side windows, specifically the driver’s side and front passenger side. Just remember that the tint must allow more than 35% of light to pass through. This ensures that visibility is not compromised for you or law enforcement officers.
- Back Side Windows: The back side windows, located behind the front side windows, can also have tinting. Again, the tint should allow more than 35% of light transmission to maintain visibility.
Rear Window: Don’t forget about the rear window! The same rule applies here – the tint must allow more than 35% of light to pass through. This ensures you have a clear view of the area behind your vehicle.
Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in Tennessee
Let’s take a look at the tint laws specific to Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles and Recreational Vehicles (RVs) in Tennessee:
- Windshield: Like other vehicles, you are allowed to have a non-reflective tint strip on the top 5 inches of the windshield of Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles and RVs. Keep the rest of the windshield untinted to maintain clear visibility.
- Front Side Windows: The front side windows of Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles and RVs must allow more than 35% of light transmission. This ensures that you have adequate visibility while driving and that law enforcement can see inside the vehicle when needed.
- Back Side Windows: Just like passenger cars and station wagons, the tint on the back side windows of Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles and RVs must allow more than 35% of light to pass through. This maintains visibility from the sides of the vehicle.
Rear Window: For the rear window of Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles and RVs, the tint must also allow more than 35% of light transmission. This ensures you have a clear view of what’s happening behind your vehicle.
Window Tint Reflection in Tennessee Window Tint Law 2023
In Tennessee, it’s important to consider the window reflection when applying tint to your vehicle’s windows. Let’s go over the permitted tint reflection for different vehicle types:
For sedans, the regulations state that
- Front Side windows: The tint should not have a mirrored or metallic appearance.
- Back Side windows: Similarly, the tint mustn’t have a metallic or mirrored appearance.
Similarly, for SUVs and vans
- Front Side windows: Similar to sedans, the tint should not have a mirrored or metallic appearance.
- Back Side windows: Just like the front side windows, the tint on the back side windows should not exhibit a mirrored or metallic appearance.
Note: Keep in mind that adhering to these tint reflection regulations is crucial to ensure compliance with the law and avoid any potential issues while driving. It’s essential to choose tints that meet these specifications to enjoy a safe and pleasant driving experience in Tennessee.
Window Tint Reflection in Tennessee
Tennessee State has specific regulations concerning window tint reflection. Here are the laws you need to follow:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: The tint on the front side windows must allow more than 35% of visible light to pass through. In other words, the tint must be relatively light to maintain good visibility both from inside and outside the vehicle.
- Back Side Windows: Similar to the front side windows, the tint on the back side windows must also allow more than 35% of visible light transmission. This ensures that the windows are not too dark, providing clear visibility for drivers and those outside the vehicle.
- Rear Window: The tint on the rear window is also required to allow more than 35% of visible light to pass through. This ensures sufficient visibility for the driver while using the rearview mirror and maintains visibility for other road users.
Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of Tennessee You Need to Know
Prior to proceeding with window tinting in Tennessee, it is essential to take into account several other important considerations.
- Side Mirrors: Tennessee does not impose any specific restrictions on the use of side mirrors in conjunction with window tinting. However, it’s essential to maintain sufficient visibility with or without tint to ensure safe driving.
- Restricted Colors: Tennessee does not explicitly restrict the colors of window tint that can be used on vehicles. While there are no color restrictions, it’s still crucial to adhere to the state’s guidelines on tint darkness and light transmission.
- Certificates: Film manufacturers are not required to provide certification for the window tint they sell in Tennessee. Unlike some other states, there is no mandate for manufacturers to certify their products for compliance with state regulations.
- Stickers: Tennessee law requires a specific sticker to be placed between the window film and the glass on the driver’s side window. This sticker serves as an identification mark to indicate that the window tint meets the state’s legal requirements.
Medical Exceptions: Tennessee allows medical exemptions for special window tint.
If an individual has a medical condition that requires additional sun protection or reduced sunlight exposure. Plus, they may be permitted to have darker tint on their windows than what is generally allowed by state regulations.
To qualify for a medical exemption, specific terms and documentation from a medical professional may be required as per state law.
Tennessee Tint Laws- FAQ’s
Is 5% tint legal in Tennessee?
5% window tint (often referred to as “limo tint” or “dark tint”) is not legal for use on front side windows and the windshield in Tennessee.
Is 20% tint legal in Tennessee?
20% window tint is not legal for use on front side windows and the windshield in Tennessee.
Is 35% tint legal in Tennessee?
35% window tint is generally legal for use on back side windows and the rear window in Tennessee.
Is 50% tint legal in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, window tint with a 50% visible light transmission is generally allowed for use on front side windows and the windshield. However, it is essential to adhere to the state law first.
Is 75% tint legal in Tennessee?
75% window tint is legal for use on front side windows, the back side windows, and the rear window in Tennessee.
What is the legal window tint in Tennessee?
Window tint regulations in Tennessee differ depending on the specific windows and their locations on the vehicle. The state has separate rules for front side windows, rear side windows, the rear window, and the windshield. Being mindful of these variations is crucial to ensure adherence to Tennessee’s window tint laws.
What is the darkest legal tint in Tennessee?
The darkest legal tint for front side windows and the windshield in Tennessee is 35% Visible Light Transmission (VLT). This means that the tint must allow more than 35% of visible light to pass through the window.
How much is a tint ticket in Tennessee?
In some cases, the fine for a window tint violation in Tennessee can range from around $50 to $100 or more. Additionally, the driver may be required to remove the non-compliant tint and get the windows re-inspected within a certain period to avoid further penalties.
Most Important Information about Car Window Tinting
Bottom Line
To legally and safely tint your car windows in Tennessee, it is vital to follow the tint laws in Tennessee. Take note of the permitted Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages for each window type, and ensure you meet the requirements. If needed, use side mirrors to maintain visibility.
Consider medical exemptions if applicable to your situation. While you have the freedom to choose any tint color you like, always make sure it falls within the acceptable VLT limits.
Understanding and abiding by these regulations will allow you to enjoy the advantages of window tinting while remaining compliant with Tennessee’s laws.