Back in 1997, New Mexico paved the way for car window tinting regulations that still hold true to this day. It’s important to know the ins and outs of these laws before hitting the road. As a responsible car owner, you’ll want to ensure that you’ve provided all the documentation regarding your window tint’s darkness or reflectivity. Keep in mind, though, that there are other rules and regulations in place for car window tinting in this state. Be sure to read up on these additional guidelines to steer clear of any costly fines down the line.
Two crucial factors to keep in mind with auto window tinting are Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR). In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in New Mexico (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 fluctuate from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has a distinctive legal limitations. Therefore, it’s important to note that the amount of light allowed to pass through tinted glass in New Mexico may differ from other states, as well as vary between passenger and multi-purpose vehicles. As such, it’s crucial to review and familiarize yourself with the specific tinting laws in New Mexico to avoid any potential legal issues. Taking the time to carefully read through the regulations can save you from facing penalties and fines down the road.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in New Mexico:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 20% tint darkness on the front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can use up to 20% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use up to 20% tint darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in New Mexico:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 20% tint darkness on the 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 New Mexico (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. For tinting car windows, another crucial factor to consider is the visible light reflection (VLR) percentage. This measurement ranges from 0% to 100%, with lower percentages showing that less visible light is reflected into the car. As a result, the tint can block more sunlight, providing you with increased privacy and protection from harmful UV rays. It’s important to note that New Mexico has specific laws regarding the allowable VLR percentage, so adhere to these regulations when selecting the perfect tint for your car. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of window tinting while also staying within the legal limits.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in New Mexico:
Front Side windows: No reflection is permitted on the front side windows.
Back Side windows: No reflection is permitted on the back side windows as well.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in New Mexico:
Front Side windows: No reflection is permitted on the front side windows
Back Side windows: No reflection is permitted on the back side windows as well.
Other New Mexico Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
If you’re thinking about tinting your car windows in New Mexico, it’s essential to understand that the state takes this matter seriously. Along with adhering to specific darkness and glare percentages for each window, there are many other rules and regulations you must follow. These are:
Side Mirrors: In the state of New Mexico, it is required by law that all vehicles have dual side mirrors installed if any of the side or back windows are tinted. This is to ensure that the driver has adequate visibility while on the road and can see other vehicles and pedestrians in their peripheral vision. Failure to have dual side mirrors installed can cause fines and penalties.
Restricted Colors: In New Mexico, certain colors of window tint are not permitted by law. These restricted colors include red, amber and yellow. This is to ensure that the tint does not interfere with the visibility of the driver or other motorists on the road. Using these restricted colors can cause fines and penalties.
Certificates: Manufacturers of window film are required to certify the film they sell in the state of New Mexico. This certification ensures that the film meets the state’s standards for visibility and safety. When purchasing window tint, it is important to ask your dealer if they are using certified film to avoid any potential fines or penalties.
Stickers: In order to identify legal tinting, a sticker is required to be placed between the film and glass on every tinted window. This sticker serves as proof that the tint has been installed legally and meets the state’s standards for visibility and safety. Failure to have this sticker on every tinted window can cause fines and penalties.
Medical Exceptions: New Mexico recognizes that some individuals may have medical conditions that require special tinting on their vehicle’s windows. In these cases, medical exemptions may be granted for certain levels of tinting. It is important to consult with a medical professional and have the proper documentation to apply for a medical exemption.
Penalties: In the state of New Mexico, failure to comply with the laws and regulations regarding window tint can cause a petty misdemeanor with a fine of up to $75. Repeat offenses or more severe violations can result in higher fines and penalties. It is important to understand and comply with the state’s laws to avoid any potential fines or penalties.
Conclusion
In New Mexico, laws permit you to use non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches of the windshield for both passenger vehicles (sedans) and multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans). For passenger vehicles, laws permit you to use up to 20% tint darkness on the front side and back side windows, as well as on the rear window. However, for multi-purpose vehicles, laws permit you to use any tint darkness on the back side and rear windows. It is important to note that there are certain restrictions on the color of tint used, and manufacturers of window film are required to certify the film they sell in the state. Additionally, a sticker is required to be placed between the film and glass on every tinted window to identify legal tinting.
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 New Mexico may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.