Back in 1991, the lawmakers of Montana put forth a set of regulations for car window tinting that still hold strong today. As a responsible car owner, it’s crucial to be mindful of these laws and the specifications that govern them. With that in mind, I’ve gathered all the relevant information and documentation about your vehicle’s window tint. It’s essential to note the acceptable levels of darkness and reflectiveness allowed in the state. Additionally, Montana has some other rules and regulations regarding car window tinting that you should know. To steer clear of any unwanted fines, I highly recommend giving the following information a thorough read.
For auto window tinting, understanding Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR) is necessary. In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Montana (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 range from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has a certain legal limitations. Therefore, it’s important to keep in mind that Montana’s regulations may differ from those of other states. The amount of light that may pass through tinted glass can vary depending on whether your vehicle is classified as a passenger vehicle or a multi-purpose vehicle. To ensure you comply with Montana’s specific laws, it’s crucial to read and understand the regulations pertaining to car window tinting in this state. Taking the time to educate yourself on these laws can save you from any potential legal consequences that may arise from non-compliance.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Montana :
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 24% tint darkness on the front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can use up to 14% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use up to 14% tint darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Montana:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 24% tint darkness for front side windows.
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 Montana (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. The Visible Light Reflection (VLR) percentage is also an essential aspect to consider when using tinting, as a lower VLR percentage shows less visible light reflecting into the car, resulting in increased sunlight blockage. For measuring the reflection of car window tinting, the percentage scale ranges from 0% to 100%.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that Montana’s window tint law permits a specific percentage of window reflection, so paying close attention to this detail is essential. To avoid any legal repercussions, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the regulations surrounding VLR and the permissible levels of window tinting in Montana.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Montana:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the back side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Montana:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the backside windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Other Montana Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
If you’re a vehicle owner in Montana, it’s essential to take the rules and regulations around window tinting seriously. In addition to adhering to the permissible levels of darkness and glare on each window, there are several other guidelines that you must follow. Here are these:
Side Mirrors: In Montana, there are no restrictions on side mirrors. This means that you are not required to have a specific number of side mirrors on your vehicle, regardless of the level of tint on your windows.
Restricted Colors: Montana law prohibits the use of red, yellow, and amber tint on vehicle windows. These colors are considered too distracting and are not allowed. However, you can use other colors as long as they comply with the state’s laws on tint darkness.
Certificates: Manufacturers of film do not need to certify the film they sell in Montana. This means that they do not have to prove that the film they are selling meets the legal requirements for light transmittance.
Stickers: State law recommends but does not require stickers to identify legal tinting. This means that while it is recommended to have a sticker on your vehicle indicating that your tinting is legal, it is not a legal requirement.
Medical Exceptions: Montana allows medical exemptions for special tint. If a medical professional determines that you have a medical condition that requires you to have a special tint, you may be exempt from the standard tint laws. However, it’s important to consult your state law for the specific terms of the exemption.
Penalties: If you are found in violation of the state’s laws on window tint, you may be charged with a misdemeanor. The penalty for this can include a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 6 months in county jail (Montana law 46-18-212). It’s important to be aware of the legal requirements for tinting in Montana and ensure that your vehicle is in compliance to avoid any penalties.
Conclusion
The 2023 Montana window tint law declares that the laws regarding tint darkness for passenger vehicles (sedans) permit non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line on the windshield, 24% tint darkness on front side windows, and 14% tint darkness on back side and rear windows. For multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans), non-reflective tint is also allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line on the windshield, 24% tint darkness on front side windows, and there are no restrictions on the tint darkness for back side 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 Montana may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.