Tinted windows are fairly common, and they are not necessarily illegal. But some vehicles have too much tint which can lead to a traffic ticket. It’s important for drivers to know how tint is measured, possible exemptions to the law, and the likely penalties they may face.

They should also understand that they have the right to challenge a tinted window traffic ticket. Working with a knowledgeable Central New York law firm, you can present a compelling defense that may save you money and legal penalties. Trust The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers.

What To Know About Tinted Window Violations

New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) section 375.12-a includes rules and regulations concerning window tint. These exist because excessively tinted windows can be hazardous to drivers and pedestrians. Window tint that exceeds the limits can also endanger the lives of police officers who cannot see inside vehicles during traffic stops.

What follows are the tinting rules for the various windows on a vehicle:

Windshield: A non-reflective tint is allowed on the top six inches of the windshield.
Front and rear side windows: The tinting must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
Rear window: The tinting must allow at least 70% of light to pass through (except for trucks).
Side mirrors: If a vehicle has a tinted rear window, it must also have properly adjusted side view mirrors so the driver can see behind the vehicle.
Reflective tint is not permitted on any vehicle window.

How Does Law Enforcement Measure Tint?

Police and other law enforcement agencies use tint meters to measure visible light transmission, or VLT. If the tinting appears excessive, police can stop the driver, measure the tint, and issue a citation. An officer who pulls you over for an unrelated infraction (e.g. speeding) can also test your windows for illegal tinting.

To measure the tint, the officer will use a handheld meter with a sensor placed against the window. The meter emits a light onto the window surface. The sensor then measures the amount of light transmitted through the glass, which allows the officer to determine the tint percentage.

Are There Exemptions to the Law?

Certain individuals with medical conditions may be exempt from New York’s window tinting law. These are drivers with a specific condition that necessitates window tinting for UV or glare protection. However, the driver must obtain permission from the Department of Motor Vehicles, and must keep proper documentation of this exemption in the vehicle.

What Are the Penalties For Illegally Tinted Windows?

If you receive a ticket for violating the New York tinted window law, you could face a number of penalties. These may include:

Fines: The amount of the fine will vary, but it could reach $150 to $200 for a first offense. Subsequent tickets may result in higher fines.
Failed vehicle inspection: Your vehicle will fail an inspection if it has illegal window tinting. You cannot legally drive until you pass inspection.
Tint removal: Also, to ensure future compliance and avoid another ticket, you will have to remove the tint. The cost of this could be significant.
Higher insurance premiums: A single ticket may not increase your auto insurance rates, but repeated violations probably will. Also, illegal tinting may attract unwanted attention from law enforcement that results in other tickets which could increase your insurance.

Why Should You Hire Us to Challenge Your Ticket?

Because the amount of the penalty may be substantial and lead to long-lasting insurance premium hikes, it is in your best interests to consult an attorney. This is especially the case if – as is the case with many drivers – you were issued other tickets along with the one for window tinting.

When you retain our Central New York traffic ticket attorneys, we get to work by:

Applying our knowledge of the law: We understand the relevant traffic ticket statutes at work in your case, and are ready to leverage our legal knowledge for your benefit.
Understanding procedures and evidence: Our firm also knows the relevant court procedures and evidence standards that govern traffic matters.
Personalized legal defense: Based on the facts in your case, there may be several available defenses such as challenging the tint meter results or lack of reasonable suspicion.
Negotiation with prosecutors: We may be able to negotiate with prosecutors for less severe penalties.
Court appearance: If your ticket requires you to appear in court, we can do so on your behalf and seek the best possible outcome.
Legal guidance: Lastly, we can provide guidance for avoiding future tickets, for example advising you how to obtain a medical exemption if you qualify.

Get Started With Your Ticket Defense Today

Were you ticketed for illegal window tinting or another traffic infraction? With an experienced Central New York law firm in your corner, you can potentially save time, money, and stress. Connect today with The New York Traffic Ticket Lawyers to begin your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About New York Window Tinting Laws

Can I fix the ticket and have it dismissed?

You may be able to request a dismissal of your ticket if you quickly remove the tint. Whether the prosecutor will do so on your court date will depend on various factors. Ask your lawyer first and be sure to keep all receipts and documentation related to the tint removal.

Can the police pull me over just for my window tint?

Yes, a law enforcement officer can pull you over just for having excessive window tint. Depending on the circumstances, however, the officer may issue you tickets for other infractions as well. Our Central New York law firm can assist with any tickets you receive.

Is it possible to challenge the tint meter results?

Law enforcement must keep meters correctly calibrated so they can accurately measure window tint. If there is evidence that the tint meter has not been calibrated, we can use this in your favor. Our law firm will explore all possible avenues in your defense.

Am I able to apply for a medical exemption?

You may be able to apply to the DMV for a medical exemption which would allow you to have window tint that is otherwise illegal. Your attorney can help you determine whether you qualify and walk you through the steps of obtaining this exemption.

Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a window tint violation?

You should hire a traffic ticket lawyer to defend your rights in court and potentially avoid the costly legal penalties of a conviction. This is especially the case if law enforcement wrongly issued you a ticket or you have a valid defense. Consult us to explore your options today.