Tinting your car’s windows involves putting a thin film to them in order to lessen the amount of sunlight and heat that enter the inside. Depending on your tastes and demands, this film can be created from different materials and come in different colors and hues.
Tinted windows provide a number of advantages, including less glare, security, and protection from UV rays. Window tinting is regulated by statute in Connecticut.
These regulations specify the maximum allowable tint darkness, the maximum allowable reflectivity, and the maximum allowable color range. It can be very expensive to deal with the consequences of breaking these rules. If you’re going to tint the windows of your car in Connecticut, you should familiarize yourself with the regulations governing such modifications.
In addition to ensuring your legal compliance, this will provide you further information to consider when selecting a tint shade.
Window Tint Darkness in Connecticut
In Connecticut, the percentage of light allowed through your car’s window tint is very specific and varies depending on the type of vehicle.
This percentage is measured by visible light transmission (VLT), which is the amount of visible light that can pass through the window.
For sedans, the rules for window tint darkness are as follows:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: Must allow 35% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in
- Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.
For SUVs and vans, the rules are slightly different:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: Must allow 35% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Any darkness can be used
- Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.
Keep in mind that there is a separate set of rules for buses and limos than there are for regular cars and trucks.
Connecticut law also requires that a certificate of compliance, produced by the window tint installation and retained in the vehicle at all times. Your window tinting is in compliance with Connecticut state law thanks to this certification.
Window Tint Reflection in Connecticut
Window tints not only reduce the amount of light and heat that enters your car, but they can also reflect incoming light, reducing glare and making it easier to see while driving.
However, there are strict laws and regulations regarding window tint reflection in Connecticut.
For sedans and SUVs, the rules for window tint reflection are the same:
- Front Side windows: Must not be more than 21% reflective.
- Back Side windows: Must not be more than 27% reflective.
It’s possible that your tint could be illegal even if it falls within the VLT criteria because of the metallic or reflected effect it produces.
This is because other drivers are put in danger by highly reflective tints.
Additionally, Connecticut law mandates two side mirrors if your vehicle’s back window is tinted.
This is done so that when reversing or changing lanes, the driver has a clear view of what’s behind them and to the sides.
Other Connecticut Window Tint Rules and Regulations
Window tinting is governed by a number of important Connecticut statutes, including those that address visibility and reflectivity.
These rules are meant to prevent injury to drivers and prevent people from exploiting window tints.
Here are the specific rules for other Connecticut window tint laws and regulations:
- Side Mirrors: Dark side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
- Restricted Colors: No window tint colors are prohibited.
- Certificates: Film manufacturers are required to certify the film they sell in this state.
- Stickers: The sticker/label of compliance is required to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on each tinted window.
- Medical Exceptions: Connecticut law allows for medical exemptions that would allow the use of low tints up to 20% VLT tint film.
Always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles or law enforcement to make sure that window tinting is legal in your area before having it done.
These laws are applicable in all counties of Connecticut including Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, New London, Tolland, and Windham
Conclusion
Connecticut law places stringent limits on the darkness and reflectivity of tints, among other significant norms and restrictions. It is vital to be aware of and adhere to these principles to avoid legal complications or fines. varied types and models of vehicles have varied levels of visible light transmission (VLT), a measure used to quantify the darkness of window tint.
Depending on the type of vehicle you drive (sedan vs. SUV), the laws regarding window tinting can be rather different. If the back window is tinted, you must also have two side mirrors, and there are additional rules about the allowed range of tint, certification, stickers, and penalties.
If you live in Connecticut, you should always double-check with the local law enforcement to make sure that window tinting is not against the law.
In order to enjoy the benefits of window tinting without breaking the law, it is crucial to be aware of and adhere to these restrictions. Keep a copy of the certificate of conformity in your vehicle at all times if the installation calls for one.
Click on the states below to see the applicable tinting laws.
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