WV Tint Laws: Understanding the Regulations

Discover the legal window tint in WV (West Virginia)

Hey there, fellow vehicle owner or driver in West Virginia! If you’re thinking about tinting your windows, it’s essential to know the ins and outs of the state’s tint laws. Knowing these rules will keep you on the right side of the law and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable driving experience in the Mountain State.

No worries if you’re new to this – we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting to explore scenic roads, this guide will equip you with all the info you need to comply with the regulations and avoid any unwanted fines or penalties.

Alright, let’s get started on our journey to discover WV tint laws and make sure your ride is as cool as the scenic landscapes you’ll be cruising through! Buckle up, and let’s go!

What Does VLT Mean According to West Virginia State Law?

This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights into West Virginia’s tint laws, ensuring that both local residents and visitors can navigate these regulations with confidence during their travels in the state. Understanding the term “Visible Light Transmission” (VLT) is essential as it refers to the amount of visible light allowed to pass through window tint material. With the knowledge of VLT, we can explore West Virginia’s tint laws and discover the legal requirements for different types of vehicles.

So, What is The Legal Tint in WV (West Virginia)?

In West Virginia, the legal window tint is determined by the minimum VLT percentage that must be maintained for various windows of a vehicle. By adhering to these regulations, drivers can enjoy a safe and comfortable driving experience while exploring the beauty of West Virginia.

Let’s dive into West Virginia’s window tinting regulations together. We’ll cover everything you need to know about tint darkness, reflectivity, and where you can put those snazzy tints on your windows. 

Tint Laws for Passenger Cars and Station Wagons in West Virginia

WV Tint Laws for Passenger Vehicle

Window tinting for passenger cars and station wagons in West Virginia follows specific regulations to ensure safety and visibility on the road. The allowed tint levels for different windows are as follows:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top four inches of the windshield, allowing drivers to enjoy some shading without compromising their view.
  • Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of light to pass through, ensuring sufficient visibility for the driver and front passengers.
  • Back Side Windows: Similar to front side windows, tint on back side windows must allow more than 35% of light transmission.
  • Rear Window: The tint on the rear window must also allow more than 35% of light to pass through for clear visibility.

Note: There are no specific regulations mentioned for rearview mirrors in the window tinting laws.

Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in West Virginia:

WV Tint Laws for Multipurpose vehicle

Multi-purpose passenger and recreational vehicles, including SUVs and vans, have similar tint regulations as passenger cars and station wagons. These vehicles must also adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top four inches of the windshield, providing drivers with some shading without obstructing their view.
  • Front Side Windows: The tint on front side windows must allow more than 35% of light to pass through, ensuring safety for the driver and front passengers.
  • Rear Side Windows: Tint on rear side windows should also allow more than 35% of light transmission for adequate visibility.
  • Rear Window: The tint on the rear window must allow more than 35% of light to pass through, similar to the rear side windows.

Window Tint Reflection in West Virginia - WV Window Tint Law 2023

Window tint reflection pertains to the extent of light that reflects off a window’s surface. In Virginia, specific guidelines govern tint reflection for both sedans and SUVs/vans.

For sedans, the regulations state that

  • Front Side Windows: Reflective tint is not permitted. This means that the use of window tinting materials with high reflectivity, capable of creating a mirrored or metallic appearance on the front side windows, is prohibited for sedans.
  • Backside Windows: Reflective tint is not permitted. The application of window tint materials with reflective properties on the back side windows of sedans is also prohibited to maintain visibility and safety standards.

Similarly, for SUVs and vans

  • Front Side Windows: Reflective tint is not permitted. Similar to sedans, SUVs, and vans are subject to restrictions against employing window tinting materials with high reflectivity on the front side windows.
  • Backside Windows: Reflective tint is not permitted. The same prohibition applies to the backside windows of SUVs and vans, ensuring visibility and safety are not compromised.
  • Rear Window: Reflective tint is not permitted. The rear window of SUVs and vans must adhere to the regulation against using reflective window tint materials to maintain safety and visibility.

Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of West Virginia You Need to Know

Apart from the basic regulations mentioned above, additional window tint laws and regulations in West Virginia include:

  • Side Mirrors: Vehicles must have both left and right side mirrors if the rear window is tinted. This ensures that drivers have a clear rearview despite the window tint.
  • Stickers: Some states, including West Virginia, may require a certification sticker from the installing company. This sticker serves as proof that the tint used complies with the state’s specific regulations.
  • Restricted Colors: Red, amber, and blue tints are generally not allowed on vehicle windows in West Virginia. These colors can obstruct the driver’s view and pose risks on the road.
  • Certificates: In some cases, states may require vehicle owners to obtain a certificate stating that the window tint complies with the law. This certificate may need to be presented to law enforcement upon request.
  • Penalties: Penalties for violating tint laws in West Virginia can range from fines to having the vehicle deemed unsafe for road use. Compliance with tint regulations is essential to avoid legal repercussions.
  • Medical Exemptions: Some states, including West Virginia, may allow medical exemptions for individuals with specific medical conditions that require darker window tints. However, obtaining such an exemption typically requires a prescription from a licensed physician and compliance with specific application procedures.

WV Tint Laws- FAQ’s

No, 5% tint is not legal in West Virginia. The front side windows and back side windows must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.

No, 20% tint is not legal in West Virginia. The front side windows and back side windows must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.

Yes, 35% tint is legal in West Virginia for both front side windows and back side windows.

Yes, 50% tint is legal in West Virginia for both front side windows and back side windows.

Yes, 75% tint is legal in West Virginia for both front side windows and back side windows.

The legal window tint in West Virginia requires front side windows and back side windows to allow more than 35% of light to pass through.

The darkest legal tint in West Virginia is one that allows more than 35% of light to pass through for both front side windows and back side windows.

How much is a tint ticket in West Virginia?

The cost of a tint ticket in West Virginia can vary, depending on the specific circumstances of the violation and the discretion of law enforcement and the court.

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.

Wrapping Up!

Adhering to tint laws in West Virginia  is essential for safe driving and to avoid potential penalties. Always check for updates to the tint laws, as regulations may change over time. 

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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