2026 Update

New York Window Tint Laws — Complete Guide

Creator: New York Tint Exemption Editorial Team
Published: 2025-01-15

Everything you need to know about window tint regulations in New York. Current legal limits for every window, penalties for violations, and how medical exemptions work.

Updated April 2026 · New York Tint Exemption Editorial Team

New York Tint Limits at a Glance

VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of light that passes through the window. Lower VLT means darker tint.

Window	Sedan	SUV / Van / Truck
Front Windshield	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line (top 6 inches)	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line (top 6 inches)
Front Side Windows	70% VLT VLT	70% VLT VLT
Back Side Windows	70% VLT VLT	Any darkness
Rear Window	Any darkness (dual mirrors required) VLT	Any darkness
Max Reflectivity	No mirrored or metallic tint	No mirrored or metallic tint

Understanding VLT Percentages

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission— it measures what percentage of light passes through your window tint. Here's what common VLT levels look like:

70% VLTVery light — barely noticeable

50% VLTLight tint — mild sun reduction

35% VLTMedium — noticeable but can still see inside

20% VLTDark — difficult to see inside from outside

5% (limo) VLTVery dark — nearly impossible to see inside

Penalties for Illegal Tint in New York

Driving with illegal tint can be costly

First offense: $150 fine
Repeat offenses: $150–$300 fine, mandatory tint removal
Additional: You may be required to remove the tint and show proof of removal

The easiest way to avoid these penalties while still getting the window tint you need is to obtain a medical exemption. With a valid exemption, your darker tint is completely legal.

Restricted Tint Colors

New York law restricts certain tint colors: Red and amber not permitted. These colors are prohibited regardless of whether you have a medical exemption.

Medical Exemptions to New York Tint Laws

New York law allows individuals with qualifying medical conditions to apply for a tint exemption that permits darker window tint than the standard limits. This is authorized under New York Vehicle & Traffic Law §375(12-a).

Must be certified by a licensed physician

Covers conditions causing light sensitivity or UV vulnerability

Exemption documentation must be kept in the vehicle

A compliance sticker may be required on the vehicle

Common Questions About New York Tint Laws

Is tint a primary offense in New York?

In New York, a tint violation can be a primary reason for a traffic stop. This means an officer can pull you over solely for having window tint that appears too dark.

Can I tint my front windshield in New York?

New York allows non-reflective tint allowed above as-1 line (top 6 inches). Full windshield tint is not permitted even with a medical exemption in most cases.

Do SUVs have different tint rules?

Yes. In New York, multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, trucks) can have any darkness on rear side windows and the rear window, while sedans must meet minimum VLT requirements.

How do police test window tint?

Law enforcement uses a tint meter (also called a photometer) to measure the VLT of your windows during a traffic stop or inspection. The device measures the percentage of light passing through.

Want Darker Tint? Get a Medical Exemption

If the standard New Yorktint limits aren't dark enough for your medical needs, apply for a tint exemption today.