If you’re looking to install tinted windows in your car, you may have some questions about the local rules and regulations.
What are the Vermont window tint laws?
And can you get pulled over for tint in Vermont?
Thankfully, the laws are fairly straightforward, so you should be able to follow them without much trouble.
Read on to discover all you need to know about tinted windows in Vermont.
Vermont State Law and VLT
When it comes to your windows, the most important metric is Visible Light Transmission, or VLT.
This measures the amount of sunlight that can penetrate through your windows into the car.
For example, a VLT of 75% will let three quarters of the light into your vehicle, while a 25% tint will only let one quarter in.
Thus, the lower the number, the darker your windows will appear both from the inside and the outside.
In Vermont, window tint isn’t regulated by Visible Light Transmission restrictions, so you won’t have to worry about purchasing a film with a certain level of VLT.
You’ll be able to make a decision solely based on the level of protection you’d like.
In most cases, a VLT of 25-50% offers a lot of protection, while not triggering your brain to think that it is too dark.
Vermont Window Tint Laws for Passenger and Multi-Purpose Vehicles
While there are numerous advantages to getting tinted windows, they can also be a cause for concern to both you and other drivers if they are too dark.
That’s why the state of Vermont introduced a set of regulations in 1984 that controls the level of window tint allowed in your vehicle.
Fortunately, the rules are the same whether you drive a sedan, van, or SUV, so you won’t have to worry about what type of car you own.
Your windshield can have non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
However, no tint is legally allowed on your front passenger windows.
On the other hand, there is no VLT limit on your back passenger windows and the rear window, so you can use any kind of film on these areas of your car.
Further Regulations and Laws in Vermont
There are a few additional points to consider when buying new film.
An important consideration is the window tint reflection, which can cause difficulties for other drivers on the road.
That’s why the state of Vermont doesn’t allow any metallic or mirrored types of film.
It’s also important to note that if your rear window has tint, you will need to install dual side mirrors.
There is no sticker needed to identify the kind of tint you have, and manufacturers don’t need to certify the film they sell you.
You are also allowed to choose the color freely, as there is no restriction on what shade of tint you buy.
Window Tint Laws and Medical Exemptions
There are certain medical conditions, including Albinism, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Cockayne Syndrome, which make people more sensitive to UV radiation.
In such a case, window tint is needed as a medical precaution to prevent dangerous or even life-threatening symptoms.
Vermont does allow medical exemptions, so you may be able to apply tint to front passenger windows in case you need it for such a reason.
If this situation applies to you, you should speak to your physician about writing you a prescription.
Remember that your doctor won’t be able to do this if you don’t have a relevant medical condition.
FAQs
Aside from the rules and regulations related to window tint, you may be wondering about whether this is a feature worth installing, and if so, what the penalties are in case you break the rules.
Let’s explore some frequently asked questions related to the topic of window tinting.
Why Do So Many People Get Window Tint?
There are a number of reasons why many people opt for window tint, even in a state like Vermont, where temperatures don’t climb as high as in more southern locations.
Aside from protecting you from harmful UV rays and preventing your car from getting hot, there are practical and aesthetic reasons why many people opt to tint their windows.
If you’re in an accident, the film can keep the broken glass from shattering, which is especially important if you regularly transport children.
What’s more, this feature deters thieves, who won’t be able to see whether there’s anything of value in your car and might therefore look for a better option.
Finally, it gives your car a more elegant look, whether you’ve just purchased a brand-new vehicle or are hoping to spruce up your older car.
Can You Get Pulled Over for Tint in Vermont?
Unfortunately, you can get pulled over for a number of minor misdemeanors in Vermont, and window tint is one of them.
Because you are not allowed any tint at all on your windshield and front side windows, it is easy for police officers to spot a breach of the law.
Unlike in some other states, there isn’t one fixed fine for such an incident, and you may pay as little as $47 but up to $1,197 if it is a recurring problem. Â
There are a great number of reasons why many people opt for tinted windows, whether they are medical, aesthetic, or safety-related.
Vermont window tint laws are straightforward to understand, and it’s worth abiding by them to avoid getting a hefty fine.
By following the above guidelines, you can protect yourself and your family in a legal and safe way.