Important Points
- The law in West Virginia requires a minimum of 35% light transmission through front windows.
- Non-reflective tint is permitted on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Medical exemptions are available for special tint requirements.
- Reflective tints should not exceed 20% reflectivity on front and back side windows.
- Failure to comply with tint laws can result in fines and corrective actions.
West Virginia DMV Tint Laws: Window Percentage, Tint Rules & Insurance Information
Understanding the window tint laws is important for West Virginia vehicle owners who want to customize their vehicles. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned automotive enthusiast, knowing these laws can help you avoid potential fines and legal issues.
West Virginia Tint Laws: The Basics
The tint laws in West Virginia are set up to guarantee drivers’ safety and law enforcement’s visibility. Here are the key points you need to know:
- Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage is the key metric.
- Different rules apply to various types of vehicles.
- Medical exemptions can allow for darker tints.
- Reflective tints have specific limitations.
- Stickers identifying legal tinting are required.
Permissible Tint Percentages
Window Tint Darkness Limits
In West Virginia, the darkness of your window tint is measured by the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. This percentage represents the light passing through the window and tint film. The lower the VLT, the darker the tint.
Understanding Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
VLT is a key determinant of the legality of your window tint. If a tint has a VLT of 35%, 35% of the visible light can pass through the window. For more details on specific state regulations, check out this guide on Tennessee DMV tint laws.
“A tint with a 35% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) rating will be darker because it only lets 35% of the light through, compared to a 50% VLT rating which lets 50% of the light through.”
This is a crucial factor as it impacts your ability to see out of the windows and how well law enforcement officers can see into your vehicle. For more information on tint laws, refer to the Colorado DMV tint laws.
Window Tint Percentages for Different Types of Vehicles
According to West Virginia law, vehicles can have different Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages. You can check out the Colorado DMV tint laws for more information on similar regulations. Here are the details:
| Type of Vehicle | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cars | 35% VLT | 35% VLT | 35% VLT |
| SUVs and Vans | 35% VLT | Any VLT | Any VLT |
| Trucks | 35% VLT | 35% VLT | 35% VLT |
Rules for Windshield Tint
In West Virginia, there are specific regulations for windshields. Non-reflective tint is permitted on the top 5 inches of the windshield. This area is often called the “eyebrow” designed to decrease sun glare without obstructing the driver’s view.
It’s vital to ensure your windshield tint doesn’t exceed this limit, as it could result in visibility problems and possible penalties.
Particular Tinting Rules and Regulations
| Window Type | Allowed Tint Percentage |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint on top 5 inches |
| Front Side Windows | Must allow more than 35% light |
| Back Side Windows | Any darkness allowed |
| Rear Window | Any darkness allowed |
| Medical Exemptions | Varies (requires affidavit) |
Reference:
https://www.shade9tint.com/post/2024-update-understanding-west-virginia-s-window-tint-laws
In addition to VLT percentages, West Virginia has additional regulations concerning window tinting. These regulations are in place to promote safety and adherence. You can check out the North Carolina DMV tint laws for more information on similar regulations.
Limits on Tint Reflectivity
While reflective tints can help to reduce glare and heat, they are subject to certain restrictions. In West Virginia, similar to Maryland’s tint laws:
- Front Side Windows: Can’t be over 20% reflective.
- Back Side Windows: Can’t be over 20% reflective.
Going beyond these limits may lead to fines and the need to remove the tint.
Prohibited Tint Colors
In West Virginia, there are restrictions on the colors you can use for your window tints. Specifically, red, yellow, and amber tints are not allowed on vehicle windows. These colors can be distracting and may affect visibility.
Requirements for Side Mirrors
When your rear window is tinted, you must have two side mirrors. This rule ensures that you can see the road behind you, even with a darkened rear window.
Requirements for Certification and Stickers
In West Virginia, a sticker to identify legal tinting is required. It should be placed between the film and glass on each tinted vehicle window. This makes it easier for law enforcement to verify quickly that your tint complies with state laws.
Medical Exceptions
If you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint, West Virginia permits medical exceptions to window tint laws. To apply for an exception, you must provide a doctor’s note from a licensed physician and obtain a special permit from the DMV.
You must always have this permit with you, as you will need it if the police pull you over.
Limits on Tint Reflectivity
While reflective tints can help reduce glare and heat, West Virginia has strict rules to maintain safety and visibility. The reflectivity of your tint can’t go above 20% for both the front and back side windows. This means your tint can reflect up to 20% of the light that hits it, but not more. You can check out the Tennessee DMV tint laws for more details on similar regulations.
Going beyond these limits can lead to fines and the necessity to remove the tint. So, it’s crucial to verify the reflectivity rating of your tint before applying it to prevent any legal problems.
Prohibited Tint Colors
Some tint colors are not allowed in West Virginia because they can distract drivers and limit visibility. In particular, red, yellow, and amber tints are prohibited on vehicle windows. These colors can be too bright and cause road safety issues. For more information, you can check the Colorado DMV tint laws.
Use neutral or darker shades that comply with state regulations to keep your vehicle fashionable and legal.
Side Mirror Necessities
If your car’s back window is tinted, you need two side mirrors. This rule ensures you can see the road behind you well enough, even if the back window is dark. The two side mirrors help compensate for any blind spots the tint might cause.
Not having dual side mirrors on a car with a tinted rear window can result in fines and be seen as a safety violation.
Requirements for Certifications and Stickers
According to West Virginia law, a sticker indicating that tinting is legal must be placed between the film and glass on each tinted window of a vehicle. This sticker shows that your tint is in compliance with the state’s rules and allows law enforcement to easily check if your tint is legal.
It’s a good idea to ask the person installing your tint to give you certification stickers and to put them on during the installation. This can help you avoid fines and legal problems down the line.
Exceptions for Medical Conditions
If you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint than what is usually allowed, West Virginia does provide medical exemptions to its window tint laws. To apply for this exemption, you must get documentation from a licensed physician and then submit it to the DMV for approval.
After getting approval, you’ll receive a unique permit that you must always have with you. This permit is necessary if the police pull you over to explain why your tint is darker than the standard legal limits.
How Window Tinting Affects Your Insurance
If you’re considering tinting your windows, you might wonder how this will affect your insurance rates. While there are many benefits to tinting your windows, it’s essential to know how this could potentially affect your insurance.
Impact of Tint on Insurance Costs
There are multiple ways that window tinting can influence your insurance rates. Insurance companies may take the following into account:
- Safety: Tint installed correctly can lessen glare and enhance visibility, which might decrease the chance of accidents.
- Theft Deterrent: Tinted windows can make it more difficult for thieves to see into your vehicle, which could lessen the chance of theft.
- Compliance: Tints that are not compliant can lead to fines and penalties, which could impact your insurance premiums.
It’s crucial to let your insurance company know if you intend to put in window tinting. Some insurers might provide discounts for safety features, while others might raise premiums if the tint is not compliant.
Keeping Your Tinted Vehicle Insured and Legal
Follow these steps to keep your tinted vehicle insured and compliant with state laws:
- Check the Rules: Ensure your tint aligns with West Virginia’s VLT and reflectivity standards.
- Tell Your Insurance Company: Tell your insurer about the tinting to prevent policy problems.
- Hold Onto Your Paperwork: Keep a record of your tint installation and any medical exemptions to show as evidence if necessary.
Adhere to these guidelines to reap the rewards of window tinting without risking your insurance. Check out the Colorado DMV tint laws for more information on similar regulations.
Consequences of Not Following the Rules
If you don’t adhere to the window tint laws in West Virginia, you could face various penalties. To avoid legal trouble and extra expenses, awareness of these potential repercussions is essential.
If you don’t follow the rules, you could end up paying fines. The fine will depend on how severe the violation is. In some situations, you might have to remove the tint that doesn’t meet the rules. Then, you’ll have to get your vehicle checked to make sure it follows state rules.
Avoid these penalties by making sure your tint is in accordance with West Virginia’s laws. Also, keep your documentation handy if a law enforcement officer pulls you over.
Penalties and Legal Implications
Not adhering to the window tint laws of West Virginia can lead to a range of penalties. If the tint on your vehicle doesn’t meet the legal standards, you could be fined and may have to remove the illegal tint. The fines can vary depending on the seriousness of the offence and whether you’ve broken the law before.
In addition to monetary fines, unlawful tinting can result in points on your driving record, leading to higher insurance costs. To avoid these repercussions, it is vital to ensure your tinting is within the legal parameters.
What To Do If You’re Cited and How To Avoid Future Violations
If you get a ticket for illegal window tint, you’ll probably have to remove it and have your car inspected to ensure compliance. This can take a lot of time and money, so it’s better to follow the laws in the first place.
Always keep up-to-date with the latest tint laws and regulations to prevent future violations. If you choose to change your vehicle’s tint, ensure you use a trusted installer who knows the state laws. Keep all paperwork and certification stickers as evidence of compliance.
Wrapping Up West Virginia Tint Laws
It’s critical for car owners in West Virginia who want to upgrade their rides to understand and follow the state’s window tint laws. This way, you can reap the rewards of window tinting without worrying about breaking the law or being fined.
Key Takeaways
Here are the main points you should remember from this article:
- West Virginia mandates that at least 35% of light should be able to pass through the front windows.
- Non-reflective tint can be applied to the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Medical exemptions can be granted for special tint needs.
- Reflective tints on front and back side windows should not have more than 20% reflectivity.
- Non-compliance with tint laws can lead to fines and corrective measures.
Maintaining Compliance and Safety
To maintain compliance with West Virginia’s tint laws, always ensure your window tint is within the state’s VLT and reflectivity limits. If you have a medical condition requiring a darker shade, you should apply for a medical exemption and always have the permit.
Adhering to these rules will allow you to reap the rewards of tinted windows while keeping your car street-legal and safe to drive.
Common Questions
These are some frequently asked questions about window tint laws in West Virginia:
What is West Virginia’s legal tint limit for passenger vehicles?
West Virginia law permits a 35% VLT for passenger vehicles’ front, rear, and rear windows. The windshield may have a non-reflective tint on the top 5 inches. You can check the North Carolina DMV tint laws for more details on similar regulations.
Does West Virginia offer medical exemptions for window tinting?
Indeed, West Virginia does provide medical exemptions for window tinting. Suppose you have a medical condition requiring a darker tint. In that case, you can apply for an exemption by submitting documentation from a licensed physician and getting a special permit from the DMV.
How does window tint impact my car insurance in West Virginia?
Window tint can influence your car insurance in various ways. Properly installed tints can enhance safety by minimizing glare and improving visibility, which could decrease the likelihood of accidents. On the other hand, tints that do not comply with regulations can lead to fines and penalties, which could result in higher insurance rates. Always inform your insurance company about any tint modifications to prevent problems with your policy.
| Type of Vehicle | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Back Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cars | 35% VLT | 35% VLT | 35% VLT |
| SUVs and Vans | 35% VLT | Any VLT | Any VLT |
| Trucks | 35% VLT | 35% VLT | 35% VLT |
By knowing and abiding by these rules, you can ensure that your vehicle’s window tint complies with West Virginia’s laws, keeping you out of trouble and avoiding legal problems.
Always check the official West Virginia DMV guidelines for the most accurate information or speak with a professional tint installer who knows the state regulations.
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