Driving toward a setting sun can be challenging, and many people consider tinting their windshield to reduce glare. However, windshield tinting is regulated by law, and the rules vary significantly from state to state.
Windshield Tint Laws
In most states, including South Carolina, Florida, and California, windshield tint is limited to a strip at the very top of the glass, known as the AS-1 Line. This strip cannot be reflective or mirrored and must not extend below the AS-1 line.
Some states, such as Ohio and Utah, allow a full-windshield tint if it meets specific visible light transmission (VLT) requirements. A 70% VLT means 70% of light gets through, while a 5% VLT means only 5% of light gets through.
It’s essential to note that windshield tint laws are in place for safety reasons. A 5% VLT tint at night can make driving feel like wearing sunglasses in a cave, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents.
Medical Exemptions
Many states allow darker windshield tint if you have a documented medical condition, such as lupus, Albinism, or severe light sensitivity. You’ll need a signed affidavit from your doctor and must keep it in the vehicle at all times.
Professional application of windshield tint is almost mandatory, especially on modern trucks and SUVs, due to safety concerns. The cost to replace a windshield has skyrocketed due to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and a DIY tint job can risk damaging the sensors or the glass itself.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
