Tint Law Overview for Maryland
The Maryland tint laws dictate how much light can penetrate the windows in a vehicles. Maryland adheres to these standards so that the darkening of windows does not interfere with law enforcement and their necessary view of a driver and passengers. Many drivers want to enjoy the benefits of darker-tinted windows for reasons other than purely aesthetic reasons. Law enforcement, of course, prefers lighter windows to allow for a clear view of the driver and passengers.
As with many states, Maryland has strict laws about illegal window tinting. Maryland’s tint laws are complicated. Therefore, all Maryland drivers must understand the requirements in order to comply with the law and avoid hefty fines .
Maryland tint law classifies window tint as percentage of light transmittance. But what does that mean exactly? Basically, light transmittance is the amount of available visible light that passes through the windows. A higher percentage means more light is allowed to pass through, while a lower percentage allows less light to pass through.
Maryland law requires front windshields of passenger vehicles to have a minimum of 35% window tint. For the side windows in the front of the vehicle, the law allows a minimum of 35% window tint. Window tint on passenger vehicles that is darker than Maryland law allows is illegal and law enforcement officials have a right to write citations for illegal window tinting.
Current Legal Tint Limitations
In Maryland, legal tint limits are calculated by measuring the amount of visible light that is allowed to pass through the window film and the glass. For front windshields, the law allows tint that permits 35% VLT (a tint that lets in 35 percent of the available visible light) on passenger vehicles. On trucks, vans and SUVs, 70% VLT tint is permitted on the windshield. On the front windows, either 35% or 50% VLT tint is allowed. On the rear windows, either 20% or 35% VLT tint is generally acceptable on passenger vehicles. On trucks, vans and SUVs, either 5%, 20%, 35% VLT is allowed. Although Maryland law does not regulate the front side windows of trucks, vans and SUVs, any rear or back window tint on these vehicles must be at least 20% VLT. Note that these restrictions are in place for the glass itself and not necessarily the total amount of light that is let through the glass plus tint.
For rear-side windows and rear windows, including SUVs and vans, there are no limits to the darkness of tint permitted so long as the tint is identified as non-reflective tint.
As far as reflections are concerned, reflective tint is only allowable on the front and back windshields of cars, trucks, vans and SUVs when the reflection is not more than 20%. No reflective tint is allowable on the side windows or the rear windows.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Unless a law enforcement officer stops the driver for some other illegal action and can see that the tint is out of compliance with Maryland law, there are not often penalties paid for having darkened window tinting on a vehicle, although it is against the law. If the driver is stopped for a violation and the officer observes that the tint is too dark, then the officer will often issue a violation for the illegal tint.
Section 22-412.2 B of the Maryland Transportation Article states that "a person may not drive a motor vehicle on any roadway in this State with any material on the window or windshield of the motor vehicle that has been treated, coated, or tinted in any way that reduces light transmittance through the window or windshield." While Maryland law allows up to a 35% tint on driver and passenger windows, the windshield must allow at least 70% of the light to pass through.
A violation of Section 22-412.2 B is a misdemeanor. On a first offense, the driver is fined $50. On a subsequent offense, the driver is fined $100. The fine for the crime does not exceed the minimum as long as the tint is removed. The law is specific that "a citation may not be issued for treatment, coating or tinting on the windshield of the motor vehicle."
While a first or second offense does not carry any points, a third or subsequent violation involves three demerit points. Over points in one’s driving record can result in the suspension of the driver’s privilege to operate a motor vehicle in the state of Maryland. While the law does not mention points specifically for having too much tint on one’s vehicle, points are assessed against the driver should he or she fail to remove the tint after being cited for the violation.
Law enforcement officials in Maryland have a formula they use to determine if a motor vehicle’s window tint is compliant with the law. First, they measure the visible light through the tinted window using an approved photometer. If the percentage of light transmittance is permissible under the law, then the driver is in compliance and suffers no penalties.
If the tint is found to cause the vehicle to not meet the law’s requirements, the motorist is given a citation. Following that, the motorist must appear in court to defend himself or herself against the allegation, or pay the fine.
While Maryland law does not mention any penalties directly for failing to comply with the law, an officer must adhere to the law in the manner which the law states. If the motorist is found by an officer to be in violation of the window tint laws, the officer must issue the citation. The motorist must appeal the ticket into court, or pay the fine.
Exemptions to This Law
Exemptions to Tint Laws in Maryland
Certain exceptions may apply to these limitations. Individuals that have a medical requirement for window tint may apply for a medical waiver, and upon approval, display on that vehicle’s windshield a sticker with:
- A serial number that corresponds with the applicant’s name
- An expiration date
- The signature of the Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Administration of the State of Maryland
Keep in mind that this sticker must be prominently and clearly displayed in the car to avoid penalties. To get a doctor’s note filled out , visit this website for further details: Medical Waiver Information
The tinted window regulations may not apply to vehicles that are used to transport by law enforcement officers, law enforcement officials, other government vehicles and bus passengers. Further exemptions are provided to commercial motor vehicles, and trucks that have sitting heights high above the ground on the highway where the sun hits harder.
Choosing the Right Tint Film
When it comes to selecting a legal tint for your vehicle in Maryland, it’s crucial to keep a few things in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to ensure that the tint you choose meets the legal standards set forth by the state. As a refresher, the legal tint limits in Maryland are 35% VLT for front side windows and no more than 20% VLT on other windows, while the rear windshield can be covered with any amount of tint that is not mirrored.
If you’re unsure whether or not your current tint complies with the law, there are some simple ways to measure your window’s light transmittance, aka VLT. You can purchase a DIY VLT meter online or at an automotive store, which will give you an accurate reading of the VLT for each window in seconds. Alternatively, many professional tint installation companies offer VLT readings as part of their range of tint services. A professional will be able to provide you with a VLT report that is approved by the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA), so you’ll have proof on hand in case you get pulled over for having illegal tint.
When selecting a legal tint, it’s important to think about how the tint will affect your life. For example, if you often drive at night, a tint that is too dark could be problematic, as you may have difficulty seeing out of the windows. On the other hand, if you frequently drive during the day, you may want a darker tint to keep the heat out of your car and reduce glare. In this instance, a 35% tint on the front windows and 20% on the back panels would be the best choice, as anything darker could put you at risk of being pulled over by the police.
Another factor to consider when selecting a legal tint is the appearance of the film. Some tints are available in various shades, which can help to enhance the overall look of your vehicle. Additionally, many tint companies now offer a variety of colors and finishes, such as carbon fiber or metallic shades, allowing you to customize your car even further.
Regardless of the tint you choose to go with, it’s important to have it professionally installed to ensure that it passes inspection. Many folks choose to buy tint and install it themselves to save some money, but this can lead to a number of issues down the line. For example, if the tint is not installed correctly, it may not adhere properly to the window, resulting in bubbling or peeling. Not only is this an eyesore, but it can also be illegal if the tint begins to come off the window and obstruct your view. If you plan to go this route, use a high-quality tint and carefully follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the legal window tint limits for cars in Maryland?
A: As per the law, the front windshield must allow more than 35% of light inside the vehicle; the front side windows must allow more than 35% of the light inside; and there should be no added tint on the rear windows. This means that if your windows have a factory tint that allows for this percentage of light, they will be legal, but any tint added beyond that will not be.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the 35% legal limit?
A: Yes. New Hampshire is the only exception to the 35% rule, as it allows a max of 70% of the light to be let through.
Q: So if I have legal window tint and I’m pulled over for another violation, does that mean my window tint issues will go unprosecuted?
A: You may be yet additional required to remove the tint regardless. You won’t be cited unless police officer suspects that the tint is illegal , but they do have discretion in this regard to ticket your for illegal tint even on unrelated violations.
Q: Are there any exemptions to the tint law?
A: Yes. There are a few other exemptions available for why you might be required to have a special waiver for tint on your front windows.
Q: Does this law apply to commercial vehicles and trucks or just passenger ones?
A: Yes. It applies to all passenger vehicles. It is also something that will be checked any time you have your windows rolled down and an officer can be said to believe it may be illegal.
Q: How do I know whether my window tint is too dark and may be illegal?
A: You can call the local police and schedule a review appointment to determine whether your window tint is legitimate. The officer will observe the window tint from the outside at specific distances and will check his or her own meter to determine the legality of your window tint using the rules outlined above.