Important Points
- According to New Hampshire law, more than 70% of light must be allowed in through the front side windows.
- Only the area above the AS-1 line or the top 6 inches can have windshield tinting.
- There are no restrictions on the darkness of the tint for the back side and rear windows.
- Medical exemptions permit 35% VLT on the windshield and driver’s side windows.
- Fines and vehicle registration issues can result from non-compliance.
Window Tinting Laws, Legal Limits & Insurance Overview: New Hampshire DMV Tint Laws
When tinting your car windows in New Hampshire, it is vital to be aware of the specific laws and regulations. These laws help you stay compliant and ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Let’s get into the details.
Important Information About New Hampshire Tint Laws
Certain laws in New Hampshire dictate the legal tint limits for various car windows. These laws are designed to maintain visibility and ensure the safety of all drivers.
Why Tint Compliance Matters
Staying within the legal limits for window tinting is important for a few reasons. The biggest one is that it ensures you can see the road clearly, which can help prevent accidents. On top of that, it can also help you avoid getting fined or facing other penalties.
Window Tinting Laws in New Hampshire
The window tinting laws in New Hampshire were put in place to improve safety on the road by ensuring drivers have good visibility. These laws provide clear guidelines on how dark and reflective window tint can be.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Windshield: Tint is only allowed above the AS-1 line or the top 6 inches.
- Back Side and Rear Windows: Any tint darkness is permitted.
History and Overview of Tint Laws
New Hampshire’s tint laws were first enacted in 1990. These regulations were introduced to address safety concerns related to reduced visibility caused by heavily tinted windows. Over the years, the laws have been updated to reflect advancements in tinting technology and to address new safety standards. For a comparison, you can check out Colorado’s tint laws.
The Reason Behind the Legislation
The main purpose of window tint laws is to ensure drivers have a clear, unobstructed view of the road. While tinted windows can reduce glare and protect from harmful UV rays, they can also reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents if the tint is too dark. These laws are in place to balance the benefits of window tinting with the need for safety on the road. For instance, North Carolina’s DMV tint laws are designed to ensure both safety and compliance.
| Window Type | Legal Tint Limit (VLT%) |
|---|---|
| Windshield | 35% (top 6 inches non-reflective) |
| Front Side Windows | >70% |
| Back Side Windows | >35% |
| Rear Window | >35% |
| Medical Exemptions | Varies |
Reference:
https://myeyerx.net/window-tint-laws-by-state/new-hampshire-legal-tint/
What are the Legal Limits for Window Tinting?
Knowing the legal limits for window tinting in New Hampshire is important to ensure you’re following the rules. These limits are determined by the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. The VLT percentage tells us how much light the tinted glass lets through.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow over 70% of light to pass through.
- Windshield: Tint is only permitted above the AS-1 line or the top 6 inches.
- Back Side and Rear Windows: Any level of tint darkness is allowed.
Understanding Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Percentage
The VLT percentage is an essential factor in window tinting laws. It signifies the amount of visible light that can pass through the window. For instance, a 70% VLT implies that 70% of the light can pass through, while 30% is obstructed. In New Hampshire, the law stipulates that front side windows must have a VLT of over 70%, ensuring drivers have a clear view.
Rules Regarding Windshield Tinting
In New Hampshire, windshield tinting is strictly controlled. The tint is only permissible above the AS-1 line or the top 6 inches of the windshield. This rule guarantees that the driver’s visibility is not hindered while allowing some tinting to lessen glare and UV exposure. You can check the North Carolina DMV tint laws for more details on similar regulations.
Tinting Front Side Windows
The tint on the front side windows should let in more than 70% of light. This requirement is enforced to ensure drivers can see their environment, which is important for safe driving. You could be fined or face other penalties if you do not follow this rule.
Rules for Back Side Windows and Rear Window Tinting
In New Hampshire, the rules for tinting back side windows and the rear window are more relaxed. You can use any level of tint darkness for these windows. This flexibility allows vehicle owners to enhance privacy and reduce glare without compromising safety.
Approved Tinting Materials
It’s crucial to remember that even though the law permits darker tints on these windows, they must still adhere to reflection rules. This means the tint cannot be overly reflective or metallic, which could be dangerous for other drivers.
It is essential to use approved tinting materials. They comply with the necessary VLT percentages and are less likely to present problems during inspections. For instance, Minnesota DVS tint laws specify the required standards. Choose materials that state their conformity with state regulations.
Doing It Yourself or Hiring a Professional
Even though you can purchase do-it-yourself tinting kits, it is generally better to hire a professional. Professionals are well-versed in the local laws and will apply the tint properly. This reduces the chance of not complying with the law and guarantees a better result.
Checking for Compliance and Inspections
It’s crucial to ensure that your vehicle complies with state laws. You can inspect your tint at local stations or with a tint meter. Being proactive about compliance can help you avoid fines and legal trouble.
Medical Exceptions for Tinting
New Hampshire law makes exceptions for medical conditions that necessitate less exposure to sunlight, thereby allowing for exemptions to the usual tint rules.
Medical Conditions That May Be Eligible for Tint Exemptions
If you have a medical condition like lupus, photosensitivity, or a specific skin condition, you may be able to get an exemption for window tinting. To apply for an exemption, you must provide documentation from your doctor and apply through the New Hampshire DMV.
After receiving approval, you can use a 35% VLT on the windshield and driver’s side windows. Always have your exemption documentation in your vehicle so you can show it to law enforcement if necessary. For more information, you can check the
What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Rules
If you don’t follow New Hampshire’s strict laws, you could face many consequences. These could be as minor as a fine or as major as a more severe penalty, depending on the severity of the violation.
You could face hefty fines if you don’t comply with the law. If you’re a repeat offender, the penalties could be even steeper. Plus, if your tint doesn’t meet the legal requirements, you could have trouble registering your vehicle. That’s why it’s so important to stay within the legal limits.
Consequences and Charges
| Infraction | Charge | Extra Information |
|---|---|---|
| Front Side Windows Tint Infraction | $100 – $200 | Must allow more than 70% of light in |
| Windshield Tint Infraction | $100 – $200 | Tint only allowed above AS-1 line or top 6 inches |
| Non-compliant Rear Window Tint | $50 – $100 | Must meet reflection regulations |
| Repeat Infraction | $200 – $500 | Increased charges for multiple infractions |
| Medical Exemption Misuse | $500 – $1000 | Severe charges for fraudulent claims |
Frequently Asked Questions and Common Misunderstandings
Vehicle owners frequently ask about the tint laws in New Hampshire. Understanding these misunderstandings can help ensure they are following the rules and avoid unnecessary fines.
Many people wonder if the tinting rules are different for various types of vehicles. However, the same VLT rules apply to all passenger vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans.
Common Misconceptions About Tint Levels
There are many misconceptions about tint levels and whether or not they’re legal. Let’s set the record straight on a few of the most common ones by referring to the North Carolina DMV tint laws for accurate information.
- Common Misconception: If your car has dual side mirrors, you can have any tint darkness.
Reality: Although dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted, the front side windows must still let in more than 70% of light. - Common Misconception: Medical exemptions permit any level of tint.
Reality: Medical exemptions allow for a 35% VLT on the windshield and driver’s side windows, but not darker. - Common Misconception: Tint laws are not enforced.
Reality: Police regularly check for compliance, and non-compliance can result in fines.
How to Keep Your Tint Within the Law
There are several vital points to remember to ensure your vehicle’s window tint is within the law in New Hampshire. Here’s how to keep your tint within the law:
Charges for violating New Hampshire’s tint laws can be substantial. For instance, if your front side windows do not allow more than 70% of light in, you could face charges ranging from $100 to $200. Similarly, improper tinting on the windshield can result in the same charge range.
Those who break the rules more than once can expect to pay a hefty fine between $200 and $500. This ensures car owners know how important it is to follow the law. Also, if you abuse medical exemptions, you could be hit with a steep fine between $500 and $1000.
Vehicle Registration Effects
Not following window tint laws could also impact your vehicle registration. If your vehicle doesn’t pass the tint rules during an inspection, you might not be able to renew your registration until the problem is fixed. This could be a hassle, so you must ensure your tint follows the law.
How Tinting Affects Car Insurance
Many car owners are curious if tinting their windows will change their insurance rates. Tinting itself might not change your rates, but it could indirectly affect them if you don’t follow tint laws.
Should your car’s tint not adhere to state laws, you could be hit with fines and penalties that can accumulate over time. Furthermore, if a crash happens and it’s found that unlawful tinting played a part in the event, your insurance provider may refuse to cover you or hike your rates.
- Make sure your tint follows state laws to dodge fines and penalties.
- Non-compliant tint may result in higher insurance premiums.
- Accidents caused by poor visibility from illegal tinting could lead to insurance coverage denial.
So, staying within the legal limits is essential to prevent any adverse effect on your car insurance.
Does Window Tinting Affect Insurance Premiums?
While window tinting that is within legal limits does not typically affect your insurance premiums, failing to comply with tint laws can increase your premiums. Insurance companies see non-compliance as a risk; if you have repeated violations, your rates may increase.
Additional Help and Information
Do you have any questions or require more information about tint laws in New Hampshire? Many resources are available to assist you. Being knowledgeable and following the rules ensures your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Find Out More
You can check out the New Hampshire DMV website for more comprehensive details on window tinting laws and regulations. You can also consult with local law enforcement for further clarification on any specific questions.
Reliable Window Tinting Companies and Suppliers
It’s important to select a reliable window tinting company to ensure your vehicle’s tint is legal. Look for companies with good reviews and a history of following state laws. Here are a few companies we recommend:
- Tint Pros in New Hampshire
- SunShield Window Tinting
- ClearView Tint for Autos
These companies provide expert tinting services that meet New Hampshire’s requirements, ensuring compliance with the law.
Commonly Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers to help you better understand New Hampshire’s tint laws.
How dark can I tint my windows in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, the front side windows on your vehicle can be tinted up to 70% VLT, which means they need to let in more than 70% of light. The back side and rear windows can be any level of tint as long as they comply with reflection rules.
Is it legal to tint my windshield in New Hampshire?
Yes, it is legal to tint your windshield in New Hampshire. However, the tint can only be applied above the AS-1 line or the top 6 inches of the windshield. This rule ensures that the driver’s view is not obstructed.
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