Vehicle window tint can be an attractive and useful feature, but it is highly regulated throughout the United States.
The window tint laws can vary from place to place, making it hard to know what is legal, especially if you travel often.
If you live in New Hampshire or visit there often and have tint film on your vehicle, you should be aware of the New Hampshire window tint laws.
New Hampshire Window Tint Laws
The New Hampshire window tint laws cover both passenger vehicles and multipurpose vehicles.
The percentage of tint film in the guidelines addresses how much light passes through the window to be legal and allowable in New Hampshire.
It is known as Visible Light Transmission, or VLT..
The higher the percentage rate of VLT, the more light can pass through, meaning the tint is lighter in color.
For example, a 35% VLT tint film lets 35% or more of natural light through the window and tint.
If the percentage rate of VLT is significantly lower, it restricts much of the light that can come through the window, and the tint film is dark in color.
For example, a 5% VLT window film only allows 5% of the natural light to pass through the window and tint.
Window Tint for Passenger Vehicles in New Hampshire
- Front windshield window tint is allowed on the top six inches with a VLT of 35% in total. It must be non-reflective.
- Rear windshield window tint allows a 35% VLT darkness.
- Front seat side windows are not permitted to have any window tint installed.
- Back seat side windows allow a window tint for 35% VLT darkness.
Window Tint for Multipurpose Vehicles in New Hampshire
- Front windshield window tint is allowed on the top six inches with a VLT of 35% in total. It must be non-reflective.
- Rear windshield window tint allows a 35% VLT darkness.
- Front seat side windows are not permitted to have any window tint installed.
- Back seat side windows allow a window tint for 35% VLT darkness.
Colors, Medical Exceptions, and Certifications
Some areas in the United States restrict tint colors.
In New Hampshire, the window tint laws allow all tint colors to be used on vehicles, as long as they follow the VLT percentage guidelines outlined.
For drivers in New Hampshire, there are medical exceptions regarding window tint.
These exceptions pertain to the windshield and the front driver’s side and passenger’s side windows, directly in their view.
Drivers need to apply to receive a medical exception for their vehicle.
In the State of New Hampshire, vehicles do not require a manufacturer’s certification regarding the window tint.
If you have a company installing your vehicle window tint, they do not need to provide a certificate that it is legal, although the State of New Hampshire recommends it.
Benefits and Disadvantages of Window Tint
Deciding to install window tint is a personal preference.
Knowing the positive and negative aspects of this feature can help you decide if window tint is a good choice for your vehicle.
Benefits of Installing Window Tint in Your Vehicle
There are many benefits to having your windows darker, especially in hot climates.
These benefits include:
- Reduces UV ray damage to the interior of the vehicle
- Helps to keep the interior cooler in hot weather, saving on air conditioning usage
- Limits the brightness that can interfere with daytime driving
- Less eye strain while operating the vehicle
- More private and can camouflage your personal items in the vehicle
- Less chance of shattering if you are in an accident
- Protects your skin from the harmful UV rays while driving
- Can increase the resale value of your vehicle
Disadvantages of Installing Window Tint in Your Vehicle
There are some drawbacks, though, when you choose to use window tint on your vehicle.
The negative elements can include:
- Harder to clean since they require a delicate cleaning solution to avoid damaging the film
- Vehicle will take longer to warm up in the winter due to not allowing natural sunlight in
- Can have air bubbles or peeling issues after prolonged use that will require removal and reinstallation
- Restricts visibility with night vision driving
- Can be hazardous in low-light conditions, including foggy, cloudy, or snowy days
- Tint hues fade over time, requiring reinstallation
- Auto insurance costs can be higher, depending on your insurance provider
- When visiting other locations, your tint may be illegal, making you susceptible to a ticket
Can You Get Pulled Over For Tint in New Hampshire?
You can get pulled over for having window tint in New Hampshire.
If your tint film is reflective, you should expect a ticket.
If you do not live in New Hampshire and are only visiting, you can still receive a fine if your tint VLT percentage is not within the New Hampshire window tint laws.
A police officer can stop you and check the VLT of your window tint.
This action does not mean you will immediately get a ticket.
If your VLT percentage is within the guidelines of New Hampshire, you should be fine to continue.
How Do the Police Measure Your Window Tint?
A police officer or other law enforcement agency can measure your window tint with a device known as a tint meter.
These devices can determine precisely how much light can pass through the window with the tint film installed.
You can also have your window film measured at your place of installation or purchase your own tint meter.