Window tinting is popular with many drivers, as it allows them a greater sense of privacy, may better fit their vehicle’s aesthetic, can help keep the vehicle cool in the summer, and can provide greater protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Every state has different laws regarding vehicle window tint limitations, which can be understandably confusing for drivers. Some states, like New Mexico and Florida, allow for incredibly dark windows, while other states are more restrictive.
Vehicles registered in Tennessee are allowed up to 35% tint darkness for the front windows, back windows, and the rear window. A 35% tint will allow 35% of light to pass through the window. Excepting the vehicle manufacturer’s shade band, the front windshield must not exceed 70% tint darkness. A 70% tint allows for 70% of light to pass through the window. A window tint violation is a Class C misdemeanor.
If your vehicle is not registered in Tennessee, you need only ensure your vehicle complies with your state of registration’s tint requirements.
The business that installs your window tint should provide you with a receipt that indicates the date of installation, the make, model, paint color, and license plate number of your vehicle, and states that your tint complied with Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-9-107 at the date of installation. Much like your registration, this receipt should be kept with your vehicle at all times.
Additionally, the installers should affix a decal to the lower right corner of the driver’s window, indicating the installer’s name and the tint’s compliance with Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-9-107.
It is important to note that Tennessee does allow for medical exemptions to its tint restrictions. If you are suffering from a medical condition that makes you especially susceptible to UV light, such as lupus, albinism, or cataracts, you may submit a doctor’s note, detailing your need for additional window tinting, to the Tennessee Department of Safety. Your doctor’s statement will be examined by a medical review board, which will issue an exemption if warranted. Drivers who are granted an exemption will receive a certificate and a decal. This decal will indicate the level of window tinting allowed to the driver and must be displayed in the motor vehicle. Drivers who are denied a medical exemption may appeal this decision to the chancery court of their county of residence.
Many drivers mistakenly believe that law enforcement cannot pull them over solely based on the darkness of their window tint. That is not the case. An officer may pull over any vehicle they suspect violates Tennessee’s tint regulations and conduct a field comparison test. Failure to submit to the field comparison test is a Class C misdemeanor.
The fine for a window tint violation shall not exceed $50, not including court costs, but fines for multiple driving offenses can add up quickly, and a window tint violation is easy to tack on to a variety of other driving offenses, like speeding! Ensure your drive through Tennessee goes smoothly and safely by complying with state limits from the beginning.
If you or someone you know is involved in a legal dispute, it is important to act quickly and seek legal assistance. At King Law Offices, we understand the sensitivity and complexity of these situations and are here to help. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the service process and the rest of your legal issues. Contact King Law Offices today at (888)-748-KING (5464) for a consultation.