North Carolina Window Tint Laws
Current window tinting regulations for North Carolina (NC). Know the legal VLT limits before you tint.
| Window Position | Allowed VLT |
|---|---|
| Front Windshield | Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | 35% VLT |
| Back Side Windows | 35% VLT |
| Rear Window | 35% VLT |
Front Windshield
Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line
Front Side Windows
35% VLT
Back Side Windows
35% VLT
Rear Window
35% VLT
Penalties
Infraction with fines of $50 to $200. Vehicles must pass state inspection.
Notes
North Carolina requires consistent 35% VLT on all tinted windows. Reflectivity must not exceed 20%. Medical exemptions are available with a physician's statement. Red, amber, and yellow tint colors are prohibited.
Last updated: January 1, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the darkest legal tint for front side windows is 35% VLT. Back side windows allow 35% VLT, and the rear window allows 35% VLT. The front windshield rule is: non-reflective tint allowed above the as-1 line.
What happens if I get pulled over with illegal tint in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, penalties for illegal window tint include: Infraction with fines of $50 to $200. Vehicles must pass state inspection.. You may be required to remove the tint to comply with state law. Repeated violations can result in higher fines.
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in North Carolina?
North Carolina requires consistent 35% VLT on all tinted windows. Reflectivity must not exceed 20%. Medical exemptions are available with a physician's statement. Red, amber, and yellow tint colors are prohibited. Contact your local DMV or law enforcement agency for specific details about medical exemption requirements in North Carolina.
Understanding North Carolina Tint Regulations
North Carolina regulates window tint darkness using VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentages. The VLT number represents how much visible light must pass through the window film. Lower percentages mean darker tint. Front side windows in North Carolina must allow at least 35% VLT to pass through.
If you are considering window tinting for your vehicle in North Carolina, it is important to work with a professional installer who understands local regulations. A qualified tint shop can help you choose the darkest legal option while staying compliant with North Carolina law.