What Is The Legal Tint In Tn
So, you're thinking about tinting your car windows in Tennessee? Good choice! Tint not only enhances the look of your ride, but it also offers benefits like reducing glare and blocking harmful UV rays. However, Tennessee, like every state, has specific laws governing window tinting. Exceeding these limits can lead to hefty fines and the hassle of removing the tint. This article breaks down the legal tint regulations in Tennessee, explains why they exist, and equips you with the knowledge to ensure your tint job is both stylish and compliant.
Purpose of Understanding Tennessee Tint Laws
Why bother learning about these laws? Several reasons. First, and most obviously, avoiding legal trouble. A ticket for illegal tint can be a real pain. Second, understanding the regulations allows you to make informed decisions about the Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) percentage that best suits your needs and preferences. Third, if you're considering a DIY tint job (which, by the way, requires a steady hand and some patience!), knowing the legal limits is absolutely crucial. Finally, even if you're paying a professional installer, understanding the laws helps you verify they're using compliant materials and techniques.
Key Specs and Main Parts of Tennessee Tint Laws
Tennessee's window tint laws are surprisingly straightforward, but it's the details that matter. Here’s a breakdown:
Visible Light Transmittance (VLT)
This is the most crucial specification. VLT refers to the percentage of visible light that can pass through the tinted window. A lower VLT percentage means a darker tint. Think of it like this: a VLT of 50% means the window allows 50% of the light to pass through.
* Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% VLT. This means your tint can block up to 65% of the light. * Rear Side Windows: No restriction. You can go as dark as you want on the rear side windows. * Rear Window: No restriction. Same as the rear side windows, you're free to choose any VLT percentage. * Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top 5 inches of the windshield. This is primarily for glare reduction.Reflectivity
Reflectivity specifies how much light the tint reflects. In Tennessee, the tint cannot be more reflective than a standard factory window. This essentially prohibits mirrored or excessively shiny tints.
* Front Side Windows: Cannot be more reflective than standard factory glass. * Rear Side Windows: Cannot be more reflective than standard factory glass.Color
The color of the tint is also regulated.
* Red or Amber Tint: Not allowed on any window. This is a safety issue as these colors can interfere with brake lights and other critical signals.Medical Exemptions
Tennessee does offer medical exemptions for darker tint. If you have a medical condition that requires darker tint to protect you from sunlight, you can apply for a waiver. You'll need documentation from a licensed physician.
Enforcement
Law enforcement officers use a device called a tint meter to measure the VLT of your windows. If the tint fails to meet the legal requirements, you'll likely receive a citation.
Understanding Tint Law "Symbols"
Think of the tint laws as having their own symbolic language. Here's how to interpret it:
* Percentages (%): Represent the amount of light allowed to pass through the window. A higher percentage means more light transmission. * "VLT > 35%": This means "Visible Light Transmittance must be greater than 35%." * "No Restriction": This indicates that there are no specific VLT limitations for those windows. However, the reflectivity rule still applies. * "Non-Reflective": Emphasizes that the tint cannot reflect excessive amounts of light. * "Top 5 inches": This indicates the maximum height of any tint strip applied to the windshield.How It Works: The Science Behind Tint
Window tint films work by absorbing and reflecting light. They are typically made of multiple layers of polyester film, often coated with metallic particles or dyes. These coatings determine the tint's VLT, reflectivity, and heat rejection properties. The darker the tint, the more light it absorbs and reflects, thus reducing the amount of light and heat entering the vehicle.
High-quality tints often include UV inhibitors to block harmful ultraviolet rays, protecting both the car's interior and the occupants from sun damage.
Real-World Use: Troubleshooting and Compliance
So, you've had your windows tinted. How do you make sure you're compliant and avoid issues?
* Before Tinting: Use a VLT meter to measure the factory glass VLT. Many factory windows already have a slight tint (usually around 70-80%). This must be factored in. If your factory glass is already at 75% VLT, you can't legally apply a 35% VLT tint because the combined VLT will be lower than 35%. * After Tinting: Ask your installer for documentation of the VLT percentage of the tint film they used. Keep this in your glove compartment. * If Stopped by Police: Be polite and cooperative. If asked, explain that you are aware of the Tennessee tint laws and that your tint complies. If the officer insists on measuring the tint, allow them to do so. * If You Receive a Ticket: You have several options: contest the ticket, remove the tint and provide proof of removal, or apply for a medical exemption if you qualify.Troubleshooting Common Problems:
* Bubbling or Peeling Tint: This usually indicates a poor installation or low-quality tint film. Contact a reputable installer for repair or replacement. * Hazy or Distorted Vision: This could be due to low-quality film or improper installation. It's important to use high-quality film and have it installed by a professional to avoid this issue. * Fading Tint: Over time, some tints can fade, especially if exposed to excessive sunlight. Choose a high-quality, UV-resistant tint to minimize fading.Safety Considerations
While window tinting offers several benefits, it's crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some points to keep in mind:
* Reduced Visibility at Night: Darker tints can significantly reduce visibility at night, especially in poorly lit areas. This can increase the risk of accidents. Choose a VLT percentage that provides adequate visibility in all lighting conditions. * Emergency Situations: In emergency situations, such as a car accident, dark tint can hinder rescue efforts. First responders may have difficulty seeing inside the vehicle. * Do Not Attempt to Remove Tint Yourself (Unless Experienced): Removing tint can be tricky, especially if it's old or poorly installed. You can easily damage the rear defroster grid on your rear window if you're not careful. It's best to leave this to the professionals.Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Tennessee window tint laws and is not intended as legal advice. Laws can change, so always verify the current regulations with the Tennessee Department of Safety or a qualified legal professional.
To help you further, we have compiled a detailed diagram summarizing Tennessee's tint laws and outlining the key specifications. This diagram is a valuable resource for both DIYers and professional installers. If you require the file, please don't hesitate to ask.