What Is Legal Tint In Tn

So, you're thinking about tinting your windows in Tennessee? Smart move! It adds style, privacy, and can help keep your car cooler. But before you go slapping on the darkest film you can find, you need to understand the legal limits. This article will break down Tennessee's window tint laws, explaining what's allowed, why it matters, and how to ensure your tint job is legal.

Purpose of Understanding Legal Tint

Why bother learning about legal tint? Several reasons. First, and most importantly, it's the law. Exceeding the legal limits can result in a citation and fine. Nobody wants that. Second, understanding the rules helps you avoid potential headaches when it comes to vehicle inspections. A vehicle that fails inspection will require that you take the tint off and reapply it at your own expense, which is a total waste of time and money. Third, knowing the specs allows you to make informed decisions about the level of tint you want, balancing aesthetics, privacy, and legality. Finally, if you're planning to DIY your tint job, understanding the rules is absolutely critical to a successful outcome.

Key Specs and Main Parts of TN Tint Law

Tennessee's window tint laws primarily regulate two things: Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) and Reflectance. VLT is the percentage of visible light that can pass through the tinted window. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the tint.

Here's a breakdown of the specific legal limits for passenger vehicles in Tennessee:

Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top five inches of the windshield. This strip is usually used for sun glare.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% VLT. This means at least 35% of light must be able to pass through the window.
Rear Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% VLT. The same rule as the front side windows applies here.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% VLT.

It's important to note that these are the *minimum* VLT requirements. Your windows likely already have a slight tint from the factory, often around 70-80% VLT. This means applying a 35% VLT film to a window that already has 75% VLT will result in a lower overall VLT. You need to factor this in when choosing your tint film.

Reflectance refers to how much light is reflected by the window. Tennessee law states that window tint cannot be more reflective than standard factory glass. Essentially, mirrored or highly reflective tints are prohibited.

Exemptions: Medical exemptions are available for individuals with certain medical conditions that require darker tint. You'll need to obtain proper documentation from a physician to be eligible.

Understanding VLT Meters

Law enforcement officers use a device called a VLT meter to measure the light transmittance of your windows. This device shines a light through the window and measures the amount of light that passes through. It then displays the VLT percentage. These devices are generally very accurate but, like any tool, they can be affected by improper use, such as dirty sensors or low battery.

How It Works: The Science Behind Tint

Window tint film typically consists of several layers of polyester film with a layer of adhesive. Some films also include a layer of metal particles to help reflect heat. The darkness of the tint is determined by the amount of dye or metal particles embedded in the film.

When sunlight strikes the tinted window, some of the light is absorbed by the tint film. The remaining light is either transmitted through the window (this is the VLT) or reflected back. The amount of light absorbed and reflected depends on the darkness and composition of the tint film.

The heat-rejecting properties of tint film are primarily due to the metal particles (if present). These particles reflect infrared radiation, which is a major component of sunlight's heat energy. By reflecting this radiation, the tint film helps to keep the inside of your car cooler.

Real-World Use: Basic Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some common issues and solutions when dealing with window tint:

Bubbling/Peeling: This is often caused by improper installation, using low-quality film, or exposure to extreme heat. Unfortunately, the only real solution is to remove the old tint and reapply new film.
Hazing/Distortion: This can be caused by cheap film or scratches on the film's surface. Again, replacing the film is usually the best option.
Fading: Over time, tint film can fade, especially if it's exposed to a lot of sunlight. Higher-quality films are more resistant to fading.
Uneven Tint: If you're DIYing the job, uneven tint is usually due to inconsistent application. Take your time and ensure you're using the correct techniques.

Important Note: Removing old tint can be a messy and time-consuming process. A heat gun and specialized scraping tools can help, but be careful not to damage the glass. Professional tint shops have the tools and expertise to remove tint quickly and safely.

Safety Considerations

While window tint can offer several benefits, it's crucial to prioritize safety:

Visibility: Excessively dark tint can significantly reduce visibility, especially at night or in inclement weather. This can increase the risk of accidents. Always stay within the legal VLT limits.
Professional Installation: Improper installation can lead to bubbling, peeling, and distortion, which can also impair visibility. Consider having your tint professionally installed to ensure it's done correctly.
Tempered Glass: Be extremely careful when working with tempered glass (typically the rear window and side windows). Excessive heat or pressure can cause it to shatter.

The primary risk with tinting itself is improper installation and potential damage to the glass during either the installation or, more commonly, the removal process. Cheap films can also off-gas chemicals that may irritate some people, although this is less of a concern with modern, higher-quality films.

Additional Tips

Always check the local laws before getting your windows tinted. Laws can change, and it's your responsibility to stay informed.
Ask for a VLT meter reading after the tint is applied to ensure it meets the legal requirements.
Keep a copy of the tint film's specification sheet in your vehicle. This can be helpful if you're ever questioned by law enforcement.

By understanding Tennessee's window tint laws and following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of tinted windows without running afoul of the law. We have a detailed diagram available for download that outlines the specific legal VLT percentages for different vehicle types in Tennessee. This diagram can be a valuable resource when planning your tint job.