Maine implemented car window tinting regulations in 1989 to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers on the road. As a responsible car owner, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these laws and guidelines, including the permissible darkness and reflectiveness levels of your car’s tint. To avoid getting fined, it’s essential to review all the information and documents related to car window tinting rules in Maine. It’s also worth noting that there are additional regulations you need to be aware of, so take the time to read all about them below. Stay informed and drive safely!
For auto window tinting, Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR) are two key factors to consider. In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Maine (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 modulate anywhere from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has different legal limitations. Therefore, the level of permissible light transmission through tinted glass in Maine differs from that of other states. It also depends on the type of vehicle, whether it is a passenger vehicle or a multi-purpose vehicle. Therefore, it’s vital to review the specific tinting laws in Maine thoroughly to avoid any potential violations. By carefully reading and understanding these regulations, you can ensure that your car complies with the tinting levels, promoting safe driving practices while avoiding any unwanted fines. So, take the time to familiarize yourself with the tinting laws in Maine to stay on the right side of the law.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Maine:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint above AS-1 line or on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 35% tint darkness
Back Side windows: You can use up to 35% darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use up to 35% darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Maine:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint above AS-1 line or on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 35% tint darkness
Back Side windows: You can use any tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any tint darkness for rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in Maine (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. For car window tinting, the percentage of visible light reflection (VLR) is also a crucial factor to consider. The VLR percentage can range from 0% to 100%, and a lower percentage means less visible light is reflected into the car, resulting in more sunlight being blocked. It’s essential to keep in mind that Maine’s window tint laws have specific guidelines regarding the allowable VLR percentage for tinted windows. Thus, it’s crucial to pay attention to this aspect as well to avoid any legal issues. Be sure to adhere to the VLR regulations and enjoy a comfortable and safe driving experience.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Maine:
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 Maine:
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 Maine Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In Maine, complying with car window tinting regulations is crucial, and failure to do so can cause hefty fines. Apart from adhering to specific darkness and glare levels on each window, there are several other rules and regulations that you must follow. These include:
Side Mirrors: According to the state law of Maine, dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted. This is because the tint on the rear window may make it more difficult for other drivers to see into the vehicle, especially when the driver is reversing or changing lanes. By requiring dual side mirrors, the state hopes to mitigate this safety risk by providing the driver with an additional way to see what is behind them.
Restricted Colors: In Maine, there are no restrictions on the colors of window tint that can be used on vehicles. According to state law, there is no mention of any specific colors that are prohibited. This means that vehicle owners are free to choose any color of tint that they prefer, as long as it complies with the state’s regulations regarding the minimum level of light transmission required on all windows.
Certificates: In Maine, manufacturers of window tint film are required to certify the film they sell in the state. This means that the manufacturers must test their film to ensure that it meets the state’s regulations regarding the minimum level of light transmission required on all windows. This is important because it helps to ensure that all window tint films sold in Maine are safe and compliant with the state’s laws. As a vehicle owner, it is important to verify that the window tint film you are using is certified by the manufacturer. You can do this by asking your dealer or installer if they are using certified film, and if they are, they should be able to provide you with the documentation. This is important because the use of uncertified film may not meet the legal standards and you will be subject to penalties like fines or penalties. So, it’s always a good idea to make sure that the window tint film you are using is certified by the manufacturer before it is installed on your vehicle.
Stickers: As per the regulations, upon completing the window tinting process, you are not required to display any stickers to confirm compliance. This is quite an achievement!
Medical Exceptions: Maine state law permits medical exemptions for lower tint on all windows for individuals with certain clinical necessities. According to state law, the Chief of the State Police may grant a certificate of exemption to a person who has a certain medical condition that requires the use of a sun screening device on their vehicle. To apply for a medical exemption, the person must provide documentation from a licensed physician stating that the use of a sun screening device is necessary for their medical condition. The Chief of the State Police will review the application and may grant a certificate of exemption if they determine that the use of a sun screening device is necessary for the person’s medical condition.
Penalties For Non-Compliance: In the state of Maine, the penalties for non-compliance with the state’s window tint regulations can include fines. If a person is found to have violated the state’s window tint regulations, they will typically be given a warning to fix the issue and bring their vehicle into compliance with the law. If the person cannot do so within a certain period, they may be subject to fines. As per the information available, the minimum fine for a first offense is $100. However, it’s always best to check with the local authorities for the most updated information about the penalties for non-compliance with the state’s window tint regulations.
Conclusion
The 2023 Maine window tint law declares that laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) permit non-reflective tint on the top 5 inches or above the AS-1 line of the windshield, up to 35% darkness on front side windows, and up to 35% darkness on back and rear windows. For multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans), laws permit non-reflective tint on the top 5 inches or above the AS-1 line of the windshield, up to 35% darkness on front side windows, and any darkness on back and rear windows.
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 Maine may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.