| State | Front Side Windows | Other Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 32% | none |
| Alaska | 70% | no red, yellow or amber tinting allowed |
| Arizona | 33% | red and amber not permitted. back window tinting requires the use of dual side mirrors |
| Arkansas | 25% | none |
| California | 70% | red, amber, and blue not allowed, dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Colorado | 27% | red and amber not permitted, back window tinting requires the use of dual side mirros |
| Connecticut | 35% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Delaware | 70% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Florida | 28% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Georgia | 32% | red and amber not allowed |
| Hawaii | 35% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Idaho | 35% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Illinois | 35% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Indiana | 30% | none |
| Iowa | 70% | none |
| Kansas | 35% | red, amber and yellow are prohibited and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| Kentucky | 35% | none |
| Louisiana | 40% | none |
| Maine | 35% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Maryland | 35% | red, amber and yellow are prohibited and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| Massachusetts | 35% | must have dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Michigan | any percent, but only 4 inches from the top of window | none |
| Minnesota | 50% | none |
| Mississippi | 28% | none |
| Missouri | 35% | must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| Montana | 24% | none |
| Nebraska | 35% | unclear on side mirrors, but red, amber and yellow are not permitted |
| Nevada | 35% | tinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line |
| New Hampshire | no tinting allowed | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| New Jersey | no tinting allowed | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| New Mexico | 20% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| New York | 70% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| North Carolina | 35% | red, amber and yellow are prohibited and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| North Dakota | 50% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Ohio | 50% | none |
| Oklahoma | 25% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Oregon | 35% | red, green, yellow, black and amber tints are not allowed, and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| Pennsylvania | 70% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Rhode Island | 70% | none |
| South Carolina | 27% | red, amber and yellow are prohibited and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| South Dakota | 35% | none |
| Tennessee | 35% | none |
| Texas | 25% | red, amber, and blue not allowed. dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Utah | 43% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Vermont | no tinting allowed | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Virginia | 50% | red, amber and yellow are prohibited and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| Washington | 24% | red, green, yellow, black and amber tints are not allowed, and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| Washington D.C. | 70% | none |
| West Virginia | 35% | red, amber and yellow are prohibited and must have dual side mirrors for back tinted windows |
| Wisconsin | 50% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
| Wyoming | 28% | dual side mirrors required for back tinted windows |
What is window tinting and why do people do it?
Window tinting involves applying a thin film or coating to a vehicle’s windows to reduce the amount of light that passes through. This film is typically made from polyester and is available in various shades and types, including dyed, metallic, carbon, and ceramic.
The tint is adhered to the interior side of the windows, and professional installation ensures it is applied smoothly without bubbles or creases.
Reasons for Window Tinting
- Heat Reduction: Window tints can significantly reduce the amount of heat entering a vehicle by blocking solar radiation. This helps keep the interior cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning and improving fuel efficiency.
- UV Protection: Tinted windows block up to 99% of harmful UV rays from the sun, protecting the car’s interior from fading and cracking. It also reduces the risk of skin damage for passengers.
- Glare Reduction: Tinting reduces glare from the sun and headlights of other vehicles, enhancing driver comfort and safety by improving visibility.
- Privacy and Security: Tinted windows provide privacy by making it harder for outsiders to see inside the vehicle. This can deter theft by concealing valuables inside the car.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Many people choose window tinting for its stylish appearance, which can enhance the overall look of the vehicle.
- Safety: In the event of an accident, window tint can help hold shattered glass together, reducing the risk of injury from flying glass shards.
Types of Window Tints
- Ceramic: Offers excellent heat rejection, UV protection, and clarity without interfering with electronics. It is the most expensive option but provides superior performance.
- Carbon: Durable and effective at blocking heat and UV rays without fading over time. It also does not interfere with electronic signals.
- Metallic: Good for heat and UV protection but can interfere with electronic signals. It provides a reflective, shiny appearance.
- Dyed: The most affordable option, primarily for appearance and basic UV protection. It tends to fade and is less durable than other types.
How much does it cost to tint windows in a car in the US?
The cost to tint car windows in the US varies widely based on several factors, including the type of vehicle, the type of tint, and the number of windows being tinted.
General Cost Range:
- Sedans: $200 to $500 .
- SUVs and Vans: $250 to $750, potentially reaching up to $1,000 for larger vehicles.
- Trucks: $200 to $600 depending on the cab size..
- Coupes: Typically between $120 and $450 due to the complexity of curved windows..
Cost by Tint Type:
- Ceramic Tint: $300 to $1,000. This high-end tint offers excellent heat rejection, UV protection, and clarity.
- Carbon Tint: $150 to $600. Known for durability and effectiveness without interfering with signals.
- Metallic Tint: $100 to $800. Offers good protection but can interfere with electronics.
- Dyed Tint: $50 to $600. The most affordable but less durable and prone to fading over time..
Individual Window Costs:
- Front Two Windows: $99 to $269.
- Single Window: $69 to $129.
- Back Window: $99 to $279.
- Windshield: $119 to $299, more for panoramic sunroofs.
Additional Considerations:
- DIY Tint Kits: Available for those who want to tint their windows themselves, but this can be challenging and may not meet professional standards.
- Local Regulations: It’s essential to be aware of state laws regarding window tint darkness and reflectivity to avoid fines.
Sources: Car Glass Advisor, Kbb.com, Window Tint Laws, Rayno Window Film, Vehicle History Reports,
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