Tint Laws In Florida
Window tinting laws are as ubiquitous as car owners themselves, and Florida is no exception to the "tints and surmounts" game with its set of regulations. At first glance, a reasonable person might think the laws exist primarily for law enforcement purposes, but there’s more to the laws than that; their genesis runs back to the state’s time-honored respect for the privacy rights of individuals. So, what do the state’s laws on window tint standards dictate?
As is the case in most states, Florida does not allow all windows to be tinted to the same degree. In fact, the most visible window in any vehicle has the highest restrictions on tint percentages allowed.
Florida’s tint laws impose the most stringent limits on a car’s windshield. Individuals seeking to apply window tint in Florida are subject to the following restrictions: Windshields must have a 70% VLT the entire length of the windshield. For the purpose of clarity, VLT stands for "visible light transmission", and it refers to the percentage of light that can be seen through a tinted window. In any case, windshields are required to have a non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or at the top five inches of the windshield. The AS-1 line refers to an approximate location at the top of the windshield where manufacturers are mandated to mark tint darkness.
Side front windows are subject to different rules than the rear side windows. According to state law, vehicles can have tint on the side front windows only that must allow more than 28% of light in . Florida also mandates that the tint on these windows reflect no more than 25% of light. While 28% appears to be a relatively high amount of visibility, the figure takes on particular significance when viewed in the context of the state’s regulations on tinting other windows in a vehicle.
The rear side windows in a motor vehicle, unlike the front side windows, may be tinted to the extent of complete opaque coverage with no allowance for observable light. The tint on these windows can reflect no more than 25% of light.
Due to the lack of restrictions on tinting rear side windows, owners of vehicles with two front doors and no other side windows may legally have complete opaque black tint on the rear side windows of their vehicles.
Owner-operators of vehicles with three or more doors are subject to more stringent tinting requirements. These individuals must have no more than 15% tint on the rear side windows and, like the rear side windows found on vehicles with two doors, the rear window in these cars can be completely opaque and with no allowance for observable light.
As noted in other areas of this blog, violations of tinting law do not carry points on a driver’s motor vehicle record. That said, a conviction for an infraction in the state remains visible on a driver’s record for 75 years. While the state usually only pursues tinting violations on vehicles in the same manner as other traffic infractions, repeated violations can lead to heightened legal trouble for owners who have a history of tinting violations.
Legal Window Tint Darkness In Passenger Vehicles
For passenger vehicles in Florida, tint darkness is measured by looking up through the bottom edge of the window. The tint darkness is referred to as the "luminance transmittance percentage." Florida’s tint laws state that the front side windows must allow more than 28% of light in, while the backside windows and rear window can have any darkness.
As far as tint reflectance goes, the front side windows cannot have any tint that is reflective (meaning the tint has a mirror-like appearance). The backside windows and rear window can have any reflectivity.
Florida law covers only private passenger vehicles, not trucks or vans. But the law does specify that the term "passenger vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is "designed to transport 10 persons or fewer, excluding the driver." This includes SUV’s, coup’s, sedans, and hatchbacks.
It is important to note that the law does not require that the tint use a film. Put another way, a person’s vehicle is not required to have any tinting on the window in order to be legal. It can have glass that is tinted during the manufacturing process, such as ceramic tint.
Multi-Purpose Vehicle Window Tint Rules
The regulations are a little different when it comes to window tint tint on SUVs, vans and trucks. SUVs, vans and trucks tend to be taller than regular passenger cars. Manufacturers then assume that you need additional vision assistance from heat screening windows because you sit higher in the seats. They also assume that even though you have a high roof, you may still be affected by the sunlight that comes through your side windows, but you also have some protection from the sun coming in through the top of the car.
Therefore, the requirements for SUVs, vans and trucks require that drivers and front passengers have no more than 35% (30% for SUVs and vans) on the side and back windows. The only people who can have a darker tint on the side and back windows are those who have received a medical exemption sticker from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
Another difference is that SUVs and vans offer you some leeway when it comes to the windshield. You can apply a tint band that goes over the roof line and covers 6 inches into the windshield. The rest of the windshield must be clear adhesive film that has a light transmittance of 70% or more and a luminous reflectance of 35% or less. The back windows can be tinted as dark as the manufacturer wants.
Rules For Florida Tint Exemptions
While the law imposes certain standards for vehicle window tint, there are some exemptions available that allow Floridians to use darker films on their vehicle windows and windshields. Those with specific medical conditions may be eligible for a medical exemption from the law. Doctors in Florida can issue medical exemption certificates upon determining that the patient suffers from a condition that requires special darkened glasses for protection from bright sunlight and other bright lights. After the doctor issues the certificate, the driver should carry it with them in the vehicle at all times so that they can produce it when stopped by a law enforcement officer for a tint inspection. In some instances, the doctors of passengers may also issue exemption certificates. For example, exemptions will sometimes be granted to the drivers of those with albinism or other medical conditions that made it essential for them to have a tint film on the vehicle windows. In addition to the medical exemptions, there are also exemptions for limousines and other vehicles such as buses and vans. Bus manufacturers in Florida may apply for an exemption that permits them to tint the windshield to 25 percent. This exemption does not, however, apply to the windshields of all commercial buses, making it important for bus drivers to verify whether the windshield is tinted to the appropriate amount. This rule also applies to the windows of manufactured vans and livery vehicles. Most people seeking to buy these vehicles will be able to verify whether any tint on the windows exceeds the 25 percent threshold. Van manufacturers in Florida have sought exemptions for tinted windows in the rear and on the sides and top. Livery vehicles include taxis, shuttles, transportation buses, hired limousines, fire trucks, ambulances and funeral vehicles. Under this exemption, the tint on the back side windows can be increased from the allowed 15 percent darkness level, while the tint on the rear windows can be increased from their permitted 32 percent darkness. Similar exceptions are allowed for vans and livery vehicles manufactured in other states as well.
Penalties for Breaking The Tint Laws
Violating Florida’s window tinting laws comes with consequences. Not only can you be penalized with fines up to $500 or 60 days in jail, but you could also be ordered to remove or adjust the window film within a certain timeframe or if it gets damaged. Florida law also states that law enforcement officials are able to request to see the manufacturer’s certificate stating that the tint placed on the vehicle complies with the state’s regulations. If you cannot produce this certificate , which is often affixed to a window by the manufacturer, you may be subject to further legal penalties.
Penalties vary greatly by state, as there are many areas where window tinting strictly forbidden or any tint at all. In states where tinting is permitted, penalties range from fines to community service and even possible jail time in some cases.
Choosing The Right Tint
When selecting the right tint for your vehicle, it’s crucial to choose one that not only suits your personal taste but also adheres to Florida’s legal standards. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Understand the State Requirments
Florida law specifies the VLT percentage of light that must be able to pass through each window of a vehicle. For sedans, the front windshield of sedans must have no more than 30% VLT while the back window can have no less than 15%. The front and back side windows can be tinted with any darkness. SUVs and vans are allowed a VLT of up to 30% on all windows, including the rear and side windows.
2. Choose High Quality Window Film
Always opt for professional-grade tint that has a manufacturer’s warranty to ensure you get maximum protection from both UV rays and glare.
3. Consider Your Driving Habits
If you tend to drive mostly during the daytime, a lighter tint in the 30% VLT range might be best for you. On the other hand, if you’re often on the road at night, consider a window film with minimal reflectivity that won’t affect night driving.
4. Don’t Skimp on Quality
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest provider in your area, you get what you pay for when it comes to tint. Always go to a reputable shop that will guarantee the application.
Common Questions
One of the most significant reasons people fail to comply with window tint laws is that they simply don’t understand them. Hopefully the following will help clear up some of the confusion.
Q: I was recently stopped and ticketed by a deputy for my window tint. The deputy said my film is illegal and I have until the end of the month to remove it. Is that right?
A: In short, no. While deputies do have the authority to issue citations for window tinting violations, it is important to remember that they are not the ultimate authorities. All tint compliance matters are ultimately handled by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle. If you are stopped and cited for a tint violation, we recommend you do NOT remove the tint. Instead, return to a certified installer, have the hue measured, and if the tint is compliant, have your installer provide you with a signed, certified letter with the specific details regarding the correction. You then take this letter to the local tax collector office and pay a fine of approximately $60.00 (amount may vary by county) to register your vehicle . This procedure will ensure your vehicle does not receive additional citations for tint violation, and that it is correctly registered with the state as having legal tint.
Q: If I purchase and install aftermarket window tint and the tint is deemed illegal, who is responsible for removing the film?
A: As a practical matter, it is the customer who has installed the illegal tint who is responsible for removing the tint. However, if you have obtained the tint from an installer who certified the tint in the first place, the installer may be required to be responsible for removing the film and replacing it with legal tint.
Q: Someone mentioned to me a while back that Florida doesn’t enforce window tinting laws any longer. Is that true?
A: No. Florida window tint law remains in full effect and is enforced. It is important to understand, however, that commercial vehicles with tinted windows, such as taxis and limousines, must meet additional compliance standards. Commercial vehicle owners should check with their local law enforcement agencies to ensure all tint laws are met.