Delaware implemented car window tinting regulations back in 1992. These guidelines dictate the permissible level of darkness and reflectivity of tint on vehicle windows within the state. It is crucial to clearly understand these regulations, as there are various additional rules and restrictions that Delaware has imposed on car window tinting. Be sure to peruse the relevant materials and documents thoroughly to steer clear of any fines that might come your way.
For auto window tinting, understanding TWO CRITICAL concepts, Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR) is crucial. In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Delaware (VLT)
Window Tint Darkness or Visible light transmission (VLT) is a measure of the amount of light that passes through a film. It’s measured in percentages and can vary anywhere from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has individual legal limitations. Therefore, for car window tinting in Delaware, the amount of light allowed to pass through tinted glass may differ from other states, as well as between passenger vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles. Thus, it is essential to familiarize yourself with Delaware’s specific tinting laws to ensure that you comply. Careful review of the regulations is strongly recommended to avoid any legal penalties or fines that may be imposed.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Delaware:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Front Side windows: You can’t use any aftermarket tint.
Back Side windows: You can use any darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Delaware:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Front Side windows: You can’t use any aftermarket tint.
Back Side windows: You can use any darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any tint darkness for rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in Delaware (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. VLR is measured in percentages, ranging from 0% to 100%. The VLR percentage is a crucial factor in determining how much visible light is reflected into the vehicle. A lower VLR percentage means that less visible light is reflected, resulting in greater sunlight blockage.
In Delaware, window tint laws permit a specific VLR percentage when using tint on your car’s windows. Therefore, it is also crucial to be mindful of this aspect of the regulation to ensure that your tinting adheres to the legal requirements. Failure to comply with VLR guidelines can cause legal consequences, so it is essential to take this into consideration when installing window tint on your vehicle.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Delaware:
Front Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the back side windows as well.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Delaware:
Front Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the front side windows
Back Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the back side windows as well.
Other Delaware Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In Delaware, the state takes car window tinting regulations seriously, and there are many rules and regulations that vehicle owners must follow. Besides maintaining a specific level of darkness and glare on each window, there are other guidelines that must be adhered to as well. These include:
Side Mirrors: You require a dual side mirror on your vehicle if your rear window is tinted.
Restricted Colors: In Delaware, there is no legal limitation concerning the color of the tints as well.
Certificates: In Delaware, the films used by manufacturers to tint your car’s windows do not require any certification. This means that you can trust the quality and effectiveness of the tinting materials being used on your vehicle. However, it is still important to follow all applicable laws and regulations when tinting your car’s windows to ensure that you are driving safely and within the boundaries of the law.
Stickers: In Delaware, it is required that a sticker identifying legal tinting be placed between the film and glass on the driver’s side window. This sticker serves as proof that the tinting on your vehicle is within the limits of the law and meets all necessary requirements. Be sure to follow this requirement when tinting your car’s windows to avoid any legal issues.
Medical Exceptions: Delaware state law permits medical exemptions for lower tint on all windows for individuals with certain clinical necessities. As required by the medical exemption law in Delaware, the driver of a vehicle with darker tinted windows must not only have the document issued by the window tint installer but also a clinical note from the specialist doctor providing details of the special needs.
Penalties For Non-Compliance: If you violate Delaware’s tinting laws, you may face a fine of up to $28.75 to $100. It is important to follow all applicable regulations and ensure that your car’s window tinting is done correctly to avoid any fines or legal issues.
Conclusion
The 2023 Delaware window tint law declares that In Delaware, it is illegal to have tinted windows on the front windshield below the top few inches (specifically not below the ASI masking on the windshield), as well as on the left and right driver side and front passenger side windows. This means that these areas must be left clear in order to meet the state’s tinting regulations. Be sure to follow these guidelines when tinting your car’s windows to avoid any legal issues. It is important to maintain visibility and adhere to the state’s tinting laws for the safety of all drivers on the road.
Disclaimer
The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or as a substitute for the advice of an attorney. No user of this site, or any other person or entity that may have received this information, shall rely upon the information contained as creating an attorney-client relationship between such user and Car Glass Advisor. The rules and regulations pertaining to car window tint in Delaware may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.