Delaware DMV Tint Laws: Window Tinting Rules, Percentage Limits & Insurance Guide

Main Points

• In Delaware, any darkness of tint is permitted on rear and back side windows for all types of vehicles.
• The front side windows must let in more than 70% of light.
• Tint on the windshield is only allowed on the top 5 inches.
• Medical exemptions are available for those who need darker tints.
• Violating these rules can result in fines and the requirement to remove the non-compliant tint.

Delaware DMV Tint Laws: A Guide to Window Tinting Rules, Percentage Limits & Insurance

The rules for window tinting in Delaware are straightforward and precise. These laws ensure drivers can see well, essential for safe driving. Knowing these rules can help you make educated choices about tinting your car’s windows.

Understanding Delaware Window Tint Laws

Delaware has established rules to regulate the darkness and reflectivity of window tints. These rules aim to strike a balance between driver comfort and safety. It’s essential to understand what is permitted and what is not, regardless of whether you’re driving a sedan, SUV, van, or commercial vehicle.

• Delaware started regulating window tinting in 1992.
• These regulations cover tints installed at the factory and those added after the vehicle is purchased.
• Medical exemptions can be granted, but you must have the proper paperwork.

The Delaware DMV and local police ensure everyone follows these laws. So, obeying the rules is essential for staying on their good side.

Basic Rules for Tinting

In Delaware, the darkness of a tint is measured by the Visible Light Transmission percentage (VLT%). This percentage refers to the amount of light a tint film allows to pass through. The lower the VLT%, the darker the tint.

For example, a window with a 5% VLT is very dark because only 5% of light can pass through. Conversely, a 70% VLT window is much lighter because 70% of light can pass through. For specific regulations, you can refer to the Illinois SOS tint laws.

Regulations and Rules for Window Tinting

Window Tint Laws for Sedans

There are specific rules for window tinting on sedans:

• Windshield: You can tint only the top 5 inches of the windshield.
• Front Side Windows: The tint must allow more than 70% light.
• Back Side Windows: You can use any darkness of tint.
• Rear Window: You can use any dark tint.

These rules ensure the driver’s clear view of the road, primarily through the front windows and windshield.

Window Tint Laws for SUVs and Vans

The rules for SUVs and vans are slightly different. For instance, in Indiana, the regulations vary based on the type of vehicle and the tinted windows.

• Windshield: You can only tint the top 5 inches of the windshield.

• Front Side Windows: They must let more than 70% of light in.
• Back Side Windows: You can use any level of tint.
• Rear Window: You can use any level of tint.

Because these vehicles often have larger windows, they may require different tinting to balance passenger comfort and safety. For more information, you can check the Maryland MVA tint laws.

Rules on Tint Reflection

In addition to the darkness of the tint, Delaware has also established regulations regarding the reflectivity of window tints. Reflective tints can help decrease glare and heat, but they cannot be overly reflective.

• Front Side Windows: You cannot have a metallic or mirrored appearance.
• Back Side Windows: You cannot have a metallic or mirrored appearance.

These rules are in place to prevent tints from causing visibility problems for other drivers on the road. For more information, you can check the Colorado DMV tint laws.

Unique Tinting Regulations for Commercial Vehicles

There are specific guidelines for window tinting on commercial vehicles:

• Need to adhere to federal rules as well as state laws.
• Can have more stringent restrictions on front side window tints.
• Commonly need specific markings or stickers to show compliance.

Commercial drivers should always check both state and federal requirements to make sure they are fully compliant.

Window Tinting Percentage Limits

Reference:

https://www.tinting-laws.com/delaware/

Windshield

Regardless of the vehicle type, the tint on the windshield can only be applied to the top 5 inches. This regulation is in place to prevent the driver’s view from being obstructed, while still offering some sun protection. For more detailed information, you can refer to the Delaware Tint Laws.

Front Side Windows

Delaware law stipulates that front side windows must have a tint that allows more than 70% of light in. This prevents the tint from being too dark and ensures that drivers can see clearly, particularly when driving at night. This is an important rule because it helps prevent accidents by ensuring good visibility.

Rear Side Windows

Delaware is more relaxed about rear side windows. Any level of tinting is permitted on the rear side windows of all vehicles. This is often a welcome relief for passengers who like a bit more privacy or want to minimize the sun’s glare. However, even if you can have the rear windows as dark as you want, the front windows must still meet the 70% VLT requirement.

Back Window

Just like the back side windows, the back window in Delaware can also have any level of darkness. This rule applies to sedans, SUVs, vans, and commercial vehicles alike. Many drivers opt for darker tints on their back windows to keep the interior cooler and protect against UV rays. For more details, you can refer to the Colorado DMV tint laws. Just make sure your back window tint doesn’t impede your ability to see through your rearview mirror.

Medical Tint Exceptions

Delaware understands that certain medical conditions necessitate darker window tints than what is typically permitted. In these instances, the state provides medical tint exceptions. This exception process allows individuals who require additional sun protection to legally have darker tints on their vehicle windows.

Qualification Criteria

In Delaware, you can qualify for a medical tint exemption if you have a medically documented condition that requires darker window tints. Conditions such as lupus, albinism, and other skin conditions that cause extreme sensitivity to sunlight are often eligible. A signed statement from a licensed physician explaining the medical need for the tint is required. For more information on window tint laws in other states, check out Colorado DMV tint laws.

How to Apply

Applying for a medical tint waiver in Delaware is easy. You can fill out the application online at the Delaware DMV website. Here are the steps:

• Complete the application form online.
• Attach a signed statement from your doctor.
• Send in the finished application.

When your application is checked and approved, you will receive a waiver that allows you to legally have darker tints on your car windows.

Expiration and Renewal

In Delaware, the medical tint waiver is only valid for a certain period of time, typically a year. To stay within the law, it needs to be renewed every year. Renewal means you must submit a new statement from your doctor and go through the application process again. If you keep your waiver current, you can keep driving legally with your medically necessary window tints.

Insurance Implications

Window tinting can have a variety of effects on your car insurance. Knowing these effects can help you steer clear of any possible problems with your insurance company.

Firstly, it’s important to let your insurance company know if you’ve tinted your windows, especially if you have a medical waiver. This kind of openness can help avoid any issues if you have an accident or need to make a claim.

Changes in Insurance Rates

Having window tinting usually won’t cause your insurance company to raise your premium. But if your tinting doesn’t comply with state laws or is illegal, you could end up paying more. So, always make sure your tints are in line with Delaware’s rules to avoid extra expenses.

How Tint Violations Can Affect Your Insurance Claims

If you don’t adhere to the tint laws, you could be hit with more than just a fine. In the event of an accident, if your window tints are discovered to be illegal, your insurance provider might refuse to pay out on your claim. This refusal could leave you having to pay for damages and repairs out of your own pocket. To avoid this, always make sure your tints are within the legal limits.

Informing Insurance Companies of Tint Changes

If you decide to add window tinting to your car, make sure to let your insurance company know. This will help to keep your insurance policy active and ensure that you’re fully covered if anything happens.

Here’s how to officially declare your tint modifications:

• Reach out to your insurance company and let them know about the changes you’ve made to your window tint.
• Give them specific information about the kind of tint and the level of tint on each window.
• If you have a medical waiver for the tint, make sure to give your insurance company a copy.

Keeping your insurance company updated can help you avoid any issues or denied claims related to your window tint.

Consequences of Breaking Tint Laws

If you don’t follow Delaware’s tint laws, you could face a number of penalties. These penalties are in place to ensure everyone follows the rules and all cars on the road are safe.

• Penalties for tints that don’t meet regulations.
• Need to take off or swap out non-compliant tints.
• Potential points added to your driving record.

How severe the punishment is usually depends on if it’s your first time breaking this rule or if you’ve done it before. So, it’s crucial to know what specific penalties you could be looking at.

Consequences for First Time Offenders

Getting caught with illegal window tints for the first time means you’ll likely have to pay a fine. The amount of the fine can differ, but it typically falls between $25 and $100. On top of the fine, you might also have to take off the illegal tint and replace it with one that’s within the legal limits.

Dealing with the problem quickly can help avoid additional fines and make sure your car stays fit for the road.

Consequences for Repeat Offenses

If you’re caught breaking the tint laws more than once, the penalties are stiffer. Fines for additional violations are usually between $100 and $200. Plus, if you keep breaking the law, you might get points on your driving record. This can increase your insurance rates and impact your ability to drive.

Repeatedly breaking tint laws can also result in stricter enforcement measures, such as compulsory inspections or heightened attention from the police.

Handling Violations

If you’re ticketed for illegal window tints, it’s best to deal with it immediately. Here’s what you need to do:

• Settle the ticket as soon as possible to prevent extra charges.
• Take off or switch the non-compliant tint with one that meets the requirements.
• Show proof that you’ve fixed the issue to the police if needed.

By doing these things, you can solve the problem and prevent any other issues. Making sure your car meets the Delaware tint laws will help you stay legal and keep your driving rights.

Questions Often Asked

These are some of the questions that are frequently asked about the window tint laws in Delaware:

How dark can window tint be in Delaware?

The tint can be as dark as 70% VLT on front side windows, which means that it must let in more than 70% of light. There are no rules about how dark the tint can be on rear side windows and the rear windshield.

How do I know if my tint is legal in Delaware?

You can check if your tint is legal in Delaware by using a tint meter, which measures the VLT percentage. Alternatively, you can go to a professional tinting service and they can check for you.

Is it possible to be exempt from tint laws due to medical conditions?

Indeed, the state of Delaware provides medical tint exemptions for those with medical conditions that necessitate darker tints. A signed statement from a licensed doctor is required, and the application process must be completed via the Delaware DMV.

How do the tint laws in Delaware stack up against those in other states?

When compared to other states, the tint laws in Delaware are fairly middle-of-the-road. Some states have more stringent rules on tint darkness and reflectivity, while others are a bit more relaxed. If you’re planning to travel with tinted windows, make sure you’re familiar with the specific laws in each state, such as the tint laws in Colorado.