Back in 1990, Tennessee established laws governing the tinting of car windows. As a responsible driver, you ensure you comply with these regulations by providing all the information and documentation about your window tint. It is important to note that besides specifying the allowable darkness and reflectivity levels of your tint, there are other rules and regulations to be aware of for auto window tinting in Tennessee. By taking the time to read up on these guidelines, you can avoid any potential penalties and keep your driving record pristine.
When it comes to auto window tinting, there are two key things you should be aware of: Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR). I’ll explain both of these concepts shortly, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Tennessee (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 be anything from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Each state has its own set of legal restrictions for car window tint darkness, and Tennessee is no exception. The amount of light that may pass through tinted glass can vary from state to state, and even between different types of vehicles, such as passenger cars and multi-purpose vehicles. It is crucial that you take the time to carefully review Tennessee’s car tinting laws to ensure that you comply. By doing so, you can avoid any potential legal issues and stay safe while driving.
Tint darkness law for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Tennessee:
Windshield: You can use up to 70% of the tint darkness on the windshield and any darkness on the AS-1 line.
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 law for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Tennessee:
Windshield: You can use up to 70% non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 35% tint darkness.
Back Side windows: You can use up to 35% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use up to 35% tint darkness for rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in Tennessee (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. For window tinting, the amount of visible light reflection (VLR) that is permitted can vary depending on the state. In Tennessee, there are specific regulations that dictate the allowable percentage of window reflection when using a tint. The VLR is measured as a percentage, ranging from 0% to 100%, and a lower VLR percentage means that less visible light will be reflected into the car, resulting in more sunlight being blocked. As such, it is also crucial that you pay close attention to Tennessee’s window tint reflection law and ensure that you comply with all of its provisions. By doing so, you can protect yourself and your passengers while driving on the road.
Tint reflection law for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Tennessee:
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 law for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Tennessee:
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 Tennessee Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In Tennessee, the rules and regulations around car window tinting are taken seriously, and failure to comply with them can result in significant penalties. Besides maintaining a specific level of darkness and glare on each window, there are several other rules and regulations that you must follow as well. These may include:
Side Mirrors: There are no restrictions on the use of side mirrors in Tennessee. Drivers are free to use side mirrors of any size and design, as long as they meet the requirements set by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for visibility and safety.
Restricted Colors: The state of Tennessee does not have any restrictions on the colors of tint that can apply to vehicle windows. However, it’s important to note that the darkness of the tint is restricted and regulated by the state law.
Certificates: Manufacturers of window film are not required to get a certificate from the state of Tennessee in order to sell their products. However, it is the responsibility of the individual installing the film to ensure that it complies with state laws and regulations.
Stickers: Tennessee law requires a sticker to be placed between the film and glass on the driver’s side window, to identify the legal tinting of the vehicle. This sticker must be provided by the installer and must be clearly visible to law enforcement officers.
Medical Exceptions: The state of Tennessee allows for medical exemptions for special tint on vehicle windows. This exemption may be granted to individuals with certain medical conditions, such as skin disorders or certain types of cancer, that make them more sensitive to sunlight. If you believe you qualify for a medical exemption, consult your state law and speak with a physician.
Penalties: If a vehicle is found to have illegal window tinting, the driver may be subject to a fine. The fine for illegal tinting in Tennessee ranges from $130 to $300. Repeat offenders may face higher fines. Additionally, if a driver is found to have illegal tinting, they may be required to remove the illegal tint or face additional penalties.
Conclusion
In Tennessee, the darkness of window tint on passenger vehicles (sedans) is regulated by state law. On the windshield, a maximum of 70% tint darkness is permitted and any darkness can be used on the AS-1 line. For front side windows, a maximum of 35% tint darkness is allowed, and the same applies for back side windows and rear windows. For multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans), non-reflective tint can be used above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line of the windshield. The maximum allowed tint darkness for front side, back side, and rear windows is 35%. It’s important to note that there are no restrictions on the colors of tint that can be applied to vehicle windows and a sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on the driver’s side window.
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 Tennessee may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.