Tint Laws in Kentucky: Understanding the Regulations and Penalties

Discover the legal tint in Kentucky

When it comes to window tinting, each state has its own set of laws and regulations. In Kentucky, these laws are in place to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers on the road.

Understanding the tint laws in Kentucky is essential for vehicle owners to avoid potential fines and penalties. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of tint laws in Kentucky, including VLT (Visible Light Transmission) requirements, reflection laws, medical exemptions, and violation penalties.

What Does VLT Mean According to Kentucky State Law?

In Kentucky State Law, “VLT” also stands for “Visible Light Transmission,” which pertains to the measurement of light that can pass through the windows of a motor vehicle. Similar to other states, Kentucky has specific regulations governing the allowable darkness of window tints on vehicles. 

According to Kentucky’s automotive window tinting regulations, the front side windows must allow at least 35% of visible light transmission. Similarly, the rear side windows and the rear window are also required to permit a minimum of 35% visible light transmission.

So, What is The Legal Tint in Kentucky?

Kentucky also has its own set of regulations concerning window tint darkness and reflectivity for vehicles. The state enforces these laws to maintain road safety and visibility for drivers and law enforcement officials. Vehicle owners in Kentucky must adhere to these regulations to drive legally and avoid penalties or other potential consequences.

Tint Laws for Passenger Car and Station Wagons in Kentucky

Kentucky Passenger vehicle tint laws

According to Kentucky state law, the front windshield of a passenger car or station wagon must allow more than 35% of light transmission. The front side windows, including the driver and passenger windows, must also allow more than 35% of light transmission.

Here’s a general overview of tint laws for passenger cars and station wagons in Kentucky:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top portion of the windshield, generally above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (usually the top 4-6 inches). However, Kentucky law prohibits tinting the windshield below this line.
  • Front Side Windows: The law does not specify any restrictions on tint darkness for the front side windows, but they must allow a certain amount of light transmission. It is recommended to have at least 35% visible light transmission (VLT) for the front side windows.
  • Back Side Windows: There are no restrictions on tint darkness for the back side windows or rear windows.
  • Rear Window: There are no restrictions on tint darkness for the rear window.

Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in Kentucky

Kentucky Multipurpose vehicle Tint Laws

For multi-purpose passenger and recreational vehicles, the front windshield and front side windows must allow more than 35% of light transmission. Here’s a general overview:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top portion of the windshield, generally above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (usually the top 4-6 inches). Tinting the windshield below this line is prohibited.
  • Front Side Windows: The law does not specify any restrictions on tint darkness for the front side windows of MPVs/RVs, but they must allow a certain amount of light transmission. It is recommended to have at least 35% visible light transmission (VLT) for the front side windows.
  • Back Side Windows: There are generally no restrictions on tint darkness for the back side windows of MPVs/RVs.
  • Rear Window: There are generally no restrictions on tint darkness for the rear window of MPVs/RVs.

Window Tint Reflection in Kentucky - KY Window Tint Law 2023

Before applying window tint to your vehicle in Kentucky, it’s crucial to understand the regulations surrounding tint reflection. Tinted windows can enhance privacy and reduce glare, but it’s essential to comply with the state’s guidelines on permissible window reflection levels. Let’s explore the tint reflection rules for sedans and SUVs/Vans in Kentucky as of 2023.

Tint Reflection for Sedans

  • Front-side windows: In Kentucky, you are not allowed to use more than 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows of sedans.
  • Backside windows: Similarly, you must not exceed 35% reflective tint on the back-side windows of sedans.

Tint Reflection for SUV and Vans

  • Front-side windows: For SUVs and Vans in Kentucky, the law also restricts the use of more than 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows.
  • Backside windows: Likewise, you are not permitted to use more than 35% reflective tint on the backside windows of SUVs and Vans.

What Are the Window Tint Reflection Laws in Kentucky?

Kentucky state law prohibits the use of reflective or mirrored window tint. This means that the tint applied to windows should not have a reflective or mirrored appearance. The purpose of this law is to prevent distractions and potential hazards on the road caused by excessive glare.

The window tint reflection laws in Kentucky are as follows:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
  • Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
  • Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 18% of light in.
  • Rear Window: Must allow more than 18% of light in.

Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of Kentucky You Need to Know

There are a few other regulations regarding window tint in Kentucky. They includes:

  • Side Mirrors: Vehicles with tinted rear windows must have dual side mirrors.
  • Stickers: Refrain from placing stickers that obstruct the driver’s view through windows.
  • Restricted Colors: Kentucky does not have specific restrictions on tint colors.
  • Certificates: Tint darkness must meet state regulations, and a compliance certificate may be provided.
  • Penalties: Violating the window tint laws in Kentucky can result in penalties and fines. The penalties vary depending on the severity of the violation. For a first offense, the fine can range from $20 to $100. Subsequent offenses can result in fines ranging from $50 to $250.
  • Medical Exemptions: Kentucky does not offer medical exemptions for window tint laws. This means that all vehicles must adhere to the state’s maximum tint darkness limits, regardless of any medical conditions that a driver or passenger may have.

Tint Laws in Kentucky- FAQ’s

No, a 5% tint is not legal in Kentucky. The front windshield and front side windows must allow more than 35% of light transmission.

No, 20% tint is not legal in Kentucky. The front windshield and front side windows must allow more than 35% of light transmission.

Yes, 35% tint is legal in Kentucky for the front windshield and front side windows.

Yes, 50% tint is legal in Kentucky for the front windshield and front side windows.

Yes, 75% tint is legal in Kentucky for the front windshield and front side windows.

The legal window tint in Kentucky is more than 35% of light transmission for the front windshield and front side windows.

There are no restrictions on the darkness of the rear side windows or the back window in Kentucky.

How much is a tint ticket in Kentucky?

The fine for a tint violation in Kentucky can range from $20 to $100 for a first offense, and from $50 to $250 for subsequent offenses.

Most Important Information about Car Window Tinting

Take a look at the key information about car window tinting. By being well-informed, you can navigate the world of car window tinting confidently and enjoy its advantages while staying within the boundaries of the law.

Final Words

Understanding the tint laws in Kentucky is crucial for vehicle owners to avoid potential fines and penalties. By adhering to the Visible Light Transmission requirements, avoiding reflective tints, and complying with other regulations, drivers can ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.

Remember to consult the specific laws and regulations in Kentucky to ensure compliance and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience.

All the information regarding car tinting laws is not recommended for use as legal advice. The content of this website should be used as a starting point for your research but keep in mind to verify and confirm the information you use from this website. Laws and instructions vary from state to state. That’s why verifying the information with your local state Department is crucial. If you’re interested in legal advice regarding the laws and traffic citations, get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to refer you to some law firms. You should not only stay confined to just understanding the state laws but also the municipal laws. You should also know that just because a statute discloses the laws, the members of law enforcement may always not be aware. This situation can drag a person to lawyers or even judges at times. The best prevention for a traffic citation can be researching on your own. Although we constantly update this page, we’re only human and sometimes we may miss the updates!
Scroll to Top