Tint Laws in Utah: Understanding All the Regulations

Discover the legal window tint in Utah

When driving in Utah, both residents and visitors should familiarize themselves with the state’s laws and regulations concerning window tinting. 

These guidelines specify the acceptable Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage, reflectivity, and other factors that determine the legality of tinted windows on vehicles. 

Complying with these regulations is essential to avoid penalties and ensure a safe driving experience. 

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to tint laws in Utah, including information on exemptions and the penalties for violations.

What Does VLT Mean According to Utah Law?

In Utah, the legality of window tint is determined by the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. VLT measures the amount of light permitted to pass through the vehicle’s windows.

The VLT percentage varies depending on the type of vehicle and the specific windows involved. It is crucial to understand these specifications to ensure adherence to the law and prevent any possible violations.

So, What is The Legal Tint in Utah?

Utah’s tint regulations are administered by the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles, which is tasked with ensuring compliance with these laws. It’s important to note that tinting rules differ depending on the type of vehicle.

This includes passenger cars, station wagons, multi-purpose passenger vehicles, and recreational vehicles (RVs). 

Now, let’s examine the specific tint regulations that apply to each of these vehicle types in Utah.

Tint Laws for Passenger Car and Station Wagons in Utah

Utah Car Tint Laws for Passenger Vehicle

Let’s explore the window tint regulations that are applicable to passenger cars and station wagons in Utah:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the windshield above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 4 inches, whichever is lower.

    Tinting below this line or extending beyond the top 4 inches of the windshield is not permitted under Utah’s regulations for passenger cars and station wagons.

  • Front Side Windows: The tint on front side windows must allow more than 43% of visible light to pass through. Tint that allows less than 43% VLT on the front side windows is not allowed for passenger cars and station wagons in Utah.

  • Back Side Windows: Utah does not have any specific Visible Light Transmission (VLT) requirements for the tint on back side windows. 

    This means you can apply any darkness level of tint on the rear passenger windows and rear windows for passenger cars and station wagons in the state.

  • Rear Window: Similar to back side windows, there are no VLT restrictions for the rear window of passenger cars and station wagons in Utah. You are allowed to tint the rear window to any darkness level you prefer.

 

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

Utah Car Tint Laws for Multipurpose vehicle

Let’s examine the tint laws that specifically apply to Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles and Recreational Vehicles (RVs) in Utah:

  • Windshield: Multi-purpose passenger vehicles (MPVs) and recreational vehicles (RVs) in Utah are allowed to have non-reflective tint on the windshield above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.

    Tinting below this line or extending beyond the top 4 inches of the windshield is not permitted for MPVs and RVs.

  • Front Side Windows: For MPVs and RVs in Utah, the tint on front side windows must allow more than 43% of visible light to pass through. Tint that allows less than 43% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) on the front side windows is not allowed.

  • Back Side Windows: There are no specific VLT restrictions for the rear passenger windows and back side windows of MPVs and RVs in Utah. You are allowed to apply any darkness level of tint to these windows.

  • Rear Window: Similarly, there are no VLT requirements for the rear window of MPVs and RVs in Utah. You are free to tint the rear window to any darkness level you prefer.

Window Tint Reflection in Utah Window Tint Law 2023

In Utah, window tint laws permit the use of tinted windows in vehicles; however, there are restrictions on the level of reflection allowed. Adhering to these regulations is essential for ensuring road safety and visibility.

Tint Reflection for Sedans

  • The regulations specify that the front side windows must not exhibit a metallic or mirrored appearance when tinted. This means the tint should not reflect light like a mirror and should not be highly reflective, preventing potential distractions to other drivers.

Tint Reflection for SUV and Vans

  • The regulations also prohibit a metallic or mirrored appearance on the front side windows when tinted. This requirement is in place to maintain optimum visibility for the driver and minimize potential glare to individuals outside the vehicle.
  • Moreover, for SUVs and vans in Utah, the back side windows must also not have a metallic or mirrored appearance to prevent excessive glare and ensure clear visibility for other drivers sharing the road.

Window Tint Reflection in Utah

Utah State has specific regulations concerning window tint reflection. Here are the laws you need to follow: 

  • Front side windows: The tint on these windows must allow more than 43% of light to pass through. This ensures sufficient visibility for the driver during both daytime and nighttime conditions.
  • Rear Side Windows: There are no specific darkness limits imposed on rear side windows. This allowed drivers to apply window tints of any darkness on these windows. However, caution should be exercised to avoid impairing visibility, especially at night or in low-light situations.
  • Rear Window: Utah required the vehicle to have dual side mirrors. This precautionary measure compensated for any reduction in rearview visibility caused by the tinted rear window. It enables the driver to maintain awareness of surrounding traffic and minimize blind spots.

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

Utah has several other specific laws, rules, and regulations related to window tinting. Here’s a more detailed explanation and rephrasing:

  • Side Mirrors: If any window located behind the driver is tinted, Utah mandates the installation of dual side mirrors. This requirement ensures that drivers have adequate visibility of their surroundings even when rear windows have tint applied.
  • Restricted Colors: Utah does not impose any restrictions on the colors of window tint. Vehicle owners are free to choose any tint color that suits their preferences.
  • Tint Variance: The allowable tint variance in Utah is 5%. This means that the actual darkness of the tint must not deviate by more than 5% from the legal limit specified for each window. The variance accounts for possible discrepancies in the measurement of tint darkness.
  • Certificates: Unlike some states, Utah does not require film manufacturers to provide certification for the window tint products they sell within the state. This means that there is no official certification process for tint films, so vehicle owners should ensure compliance with the applicable tinting regulations.
  • Stickers: Utah does not require the use of any specific sticker or label to identify legal tinting on vehicles. However, it’s essential for vehicle owners to keep a record of the tint installation details to demonstrate compliance with the law if necessary.
  • Medical Exceptions: Utah’s tint law does not allow for medical exemptions that would permit the use of special tint. This means that even if a driver has a medical condition that requires additional UV protection or reduced light exposure, they are still subject to the standard tinting regulations.
  • Penalties: Failure to comply with Utah’s window tinting laws may result in a traffic infraction. If a vehicle is found to have window tint that does not meet the legal requirements, the driver could face fines or other penalties.

Tint Laws in Utah- FAQ’s

5% tint is not legal for the front side windows in Utah. However, it may be allowed for the rear side and rear windows. 

The law allows a maximum tint of 43% on the front side windows. Therefore, 20% tint is not legal for the front side windows in Utah.

35% tint should be legal for the front side windows in Utah, as it falls within the allowed limit.

50% tint is not legal for the front side windows in Utah. However, it may be allowed for the rear side and rear windows.

75% tint is not legal for the front side windows in Utah.

Utah’s window tint regulations vary based on the specific windows and their locations on the vehicle. Different rules apply to front side windows, rear side windows, the rear window, and the windshield. Complying with these variations is essential to follow Utah’s window tint laws.

The darkest legal tint in Utah is 43% on the front side windows. 

How much is a tint ticket in Utah?

Generally, the fine for illegal window tint in Utah ranges from $100 to $200. However, note that fines and penalties may change over time.

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.

Bottom Line

To ensure legal and safe window tinting in Utah, it is crucial to adhere to the state’s tint laws. Pay attention to the allowed Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages for each window type and ensure compliance with the requirements. If necessary, use side mirrors to maintain adequate visibility.

If you have a medical condition that qualifies for an exemption, consider obtaining the appropriate documentation as a part of the tint laws in Utah. While you have the freedom to choose any tint color you prefer, ensure it falls within the acceptable VLT limits.

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!
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