Vermont DMV Tint Laws: Window Tinting Laws, Legal Limits & Insurance Information

Key Points

• Window tinting on the windshield is heavily regulated in . Only non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line from the manufacturer is allowed.
• The front side windows must let more than 35% of light inside. This ensures that the driver and law enforcement can see clearly.
• There are no limits on the darkness for back side and rear windows, but they can’t be reflective or mirrored.
• Medical exemptions are possible for certain conditions, but they require proper documentation and approval from the DMV.
• If you violate the tint laws, you could face fines, vehicle inspections, and the removal of illegal tint.

Vermont DMV Tint Laws: Window Tinting Laws, Legal Limits & Insurance Information

Vermont Tint Laws Explained

Vermont’s window tinting laws are in place to make sure drivers can see clearly while they’re driving, and to make sure law enforcement can see inside vehicles when they need to. These laws regulate how dark (or the Visible Light Transmission, VLT) and reflective window tints can be, and they apply to all vehicles registered in Vermont. If you’re thinking about tinting your vehicle windows, it’s very important to understand these laws. If you don’t comply with them, you could be fined or face other legal problems.

Reference:

https://www.cartintlaw.com/vermont/

What’s Legal for Window Tinting?

Windshield

Vermont law is pretty clear about what you can and can’t do with your windshield. Only non-reflective tint is allowed, and it has to be above the AS-1 line that the manufacturer puts on the windshield. This line is usually about 5 inches from the top. The reason for this is to make sure the driver can see well, especially at night or when the weather is bad.

Front Side Windows

The law requires that the tint on the front side windows must allow over 35% of light in. This ensures that the tint isn’t too dark, allowing the driver to see out and law enforcement to see in. Keep in mind that this VLT percentage is based on the amount of visible light that can pass through both the glass and the tint film.

Rear Side Windows

The rear side windows have more relaxed rules. These windows can be as dark as you want, providing more privacy for the passengers. However, the tint cannot be reflective or mirrored. This rule is to prevent glare that could impair other drivers on the road.

Back Window

Just like the back side windows, the back window can have any level of tint darkness. This is especially useful for those who use their vehicles to transport valuable items or who want more privacy. However, just like the back side windows, the tint on the back window cannot be reflective or mirrored.

Exceptions for Medical Conditions

Vermont offers exceptions to its window tinting laws for those with specific medical conditions. If your medical condition requires darker window tinting, you can apply for an exception. Conditions that may be eligible include lupus, photosensitivity, or other disorders where sunlight exposure is harmful.

If you require a medical exemption, you can get a permit application from the Vermont DMV. You must also provide a statement from a licensed physician that clearly states your medical need for darker window tinting. You must submit both the application and the supporting documents to the DMV for review.

After you receive approval, you can put on tint that goes beyond the typical legal restrictions. But, it’s crucial to always have the exemption paperwork in your car. This can prevent any possible problems if the police pull you over. For more details, check out the South Carolina DMV tint laws.

Insurance Considerations

Window tinting can also have an impact on your car insurance. Although most insurance companies don’t increase premiums for window tinting, they do mandate that the tint is in accordance with state regulations. If your tint is discovered to be illegal, your insurance coverage could be invalidated in the event of an accident. For more details, you can check out the window tint laws in Vermont.

If you’re thinking about tinting your windows, it’s wise to let your insurance company know. They can provide you with their specific guidelines and make sure your coverage isn’t affected. Plus, legal window tint is sometimes considered a safety feature, which could potentially lower your insurance rates.

What Happens If You Don’t Follow The Law?

If you don’t follow the window tint laws in Vermont, you could face a number of penalties. If your car is discovered to have illegal tint, you could be fined and forced to remove the tint. In some cases, you might also have to have your car inspected to make sure it’s legal. For more information on similar regulations, check out the North Carolina DMV tint laws.

You might have to pay at least $100 for illegal window tinting. If you get caught again, you could face stiffer fines and penalties. That’s why you should make sure your tint is legal in your state.

Other Tinting Regulations in Vermont

In addition to the specific restrictions on the darkness and reflectivity of window tint, Vermont has additional regulations that you need to know:

• Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are necessary if the rear window is tinted.
• Restricted Colors: There are no color restrictions on tints in Vermont.
• Certificates: Tint film manufacturers do not need to certify the film they sell in this state.
• Stickers: There are no specific stickers required to identify legal tinting.

Summary Table of Vermont Tint Laws

Conclusion

It’s important for all vehicle owners in Vermont to understand and follow the state’s window tint laws. By making sure your tint is in compliance with these rules, you can avoid fines and legal troubles, as well as keep your vehicle safe and insurable. If you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint, make sure to get the necessary exemptions from the DMV. Always keep your documentation with you and stay up-to-date on any changes to the law.

If you need more information or the latest updates, check out the Vermont DMV website or speak to local experts who are experienced in window tinting.

Rear Side Windows

The rear side windows are subject to less stringent regulations. You can tint these windows to any degree of darkness, providing more privacy for those inside the vehicle. However, the tint cannot be reflective or mirrored, as this could create glare that could impact other drivers.

Tinting your back side windows a darker shade can be great for privacy or if you often carry valuables in your car. Just keep in mind that reflective or metallic tints are not allowed under Vermont law. Using non-reflective tints will keep your car compliant and still give you the privacy you want.

While the law does permit any level of tinting on the rear side windows, it’s important to keep in mind the practical considerations. Overly dark tints can make it hard for passengers to see out of the car, which may not always be desirable. It’s all about finding the right balance between privacy and visibility.

Back Window

Just like the back side windows, you can tint the back window as dark as you want. This is great for people who use their cars for transporting valuable items or want more privacy. However, the back window tint cannot be reflective or mirrored, just like the back side windows.

Consider that when you tint your back window, darker tints could drastically lower visibility when you’re looking through the rearview mirror. If you decide to go with a very dark tint, it might be wise to put in top-quality rearview cameras to assist with backing up and parking.

Medical Exceptions

Vermont does have a provision for medical exemptions to its usual window tinting laws. This means that if you have a particular medical condition that requires darker window tinting, you can apply for an exception. Conditions that may qualify include lupus, photosensitivity, or other conditions that make exposure to sunlight harmful.

In order to apply for a medical exemption, you will need to complete a permit application that can be obtained from the Vermont DMV. This application must be accompanied by a document from a licensed physician that clearly outlines your medical necessity for darker window tinting. The application and accompanying documents must then be submitted to the DMV for consideration.

Once your exemption is approved, you will be permitted to install window tint that is darker than the standard legal limit. It is crucial to always keep your exemption paperwork in your vehicle. This will prevent any possible complications if you are pulled over by the police.

Complete the medical exemption permit application from the Vermont DMV.

Obtain a statement from a licensed physician detailing your medical need for darker tint.

Submit the application and medical documentation to the DMV.

Once approved, keep the exemption documentation in your vehicle at all times.

Remember, the medical exemption is specific to the individual and their vehicle. If you sell your vehicle or no longer need the exemption, you should notify the DMV. This ensures that your records are up-to-date and that the new owner is aware of any tinting regulations.

People with health conditions that make the usual tinting rules impractical can get a medical exemption. You can keep your vehicle legal and meet your medical needs by following the right steps. For more information, check out the Maryland MVA tint laws.

Insurance Details

Window tinting can also have an impact on your car insurance. Most insurance providers don’t add on additional charges for window tinting, but they do insist that the tinting is in accordance with state laws. If your tinting is discovered to be illegal, it could potentially nullify your insurance coverage if you are involved in an accident.

If you’re thinking about tinting your windows, you should definitely let your insurance company know. They can provide you with the necessary guidelines and make sure your coverage is still good. Plus, having legal tint is sometimes considered a safety feature, which could potentially lower your insurance rates.

To prevent any future problems, always make sure your tint is legal in Vermont before you install it. This simple action could save you from fines, legal trouble, and insurance problems later.

Penalties for Not Following the Law

If you don’t adhere to the window tint laws in Vermont, you could face a number of consequences. If your car is discovered to have tint that’s not legal, you could be fined and forced to remove the tint. In some situations, you might also need to have your car inspected to make sure it’s compliant.

If your window tinting is illegal, you can expect to pay a fine that usually starts at about $100. If you continue to break the law, you’ll find that the fines increase and the penalties become more serious. So, make sure your tint meets the state’s standards to avoid these problems.

The most critical thing to note is that non-compliance can also affect your car’s insurance. If your insurance company finds out that your tint is not legal, they may refuse to cover related claims. This means that if there’s an accident, you could be left with a hefty bill to pay.

Extra Tinting Rules and Regulations in Vermont

In addition to the specific restrictions on the darkness and reflectiveness of window tints, Vermont has some other regulations you should know about:

• Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
• Restricted Colors: There are no specific tint colors that are prohibited in Vermont.
• Certificates: Tint film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in the state of Vermont.
• Stickers: No stickers are required to identify legal tinting.

These additional rules are put in place to help ensure that vehicles are safe and in compliance with state laws. For instance, the requirement for dual side mirrors if the rear window is tinted ensures that drivers can still see behind them, even if their rearview mirror is obstructed by dark tint.

Overview of Vermont Tint Laws

Final Thoughts

It’s important for all vehicle owners in Vermont to understand and follow the state’s window tint laws. By ensuring your tint is in compliance with these laws, you can avoid penalties and legal trouble, and keep your vehicle insurable and safe. If you have a medical condition that necessitates a darker tint, remember to apply for the necessary exemptions through the DMV. Keep your documentation on hand at all times and stay up-to-date on any changes to the law.