Window tint laws: Here’s what’s legal in Tennessee
JACKSON, Tenn. — With the summer heat, many drivers consider window tinting for comfort and UV protection. For others, it may be for medical reasons or simply, style.
But before you tint, know the rules so you don’t get stopped by police for a window tint violation.
Window tinting offers UV protection, privacy, and cooler interiors, but in Tennessee, tinting laws are enforced to ensure safety.
For a sedan, front side windows must allow at least 35% visible light transmittance (VLT), while windshields need 70% VLT. The rear window and back side windows can also be 35% VLT.
According to a local certified shop, for trucks, vans, or SUVs, there are no requirements on the cargo area or hatch, but there is a restriction on the two front door windows.
Caitlin, a tinting consultant at Precision Tint in Jackson, recommends that first-timers choose ceramic tint for heat rejection without darkening too much.
“It’s a clear ceramic. It’s an 80% film,” Caitlin said. “A lot of people do this on the entire front windshield. It’s legal to do. The lower the number is the darker the tint is. This is an 80, but it keeps out 86% heat, so it protects your dash from cracking over time and obviously keeping the heat out of the vehicle.”
Darker tint is permitted in Tennessee, but only under specific conditions.
Those with a medical condition that requires protection from sunlight or bright light can apply for an exemption to use darker tints.
It is best to carry the proper documentation from your doctor or the department of safety in your vehicle to offer proof to an officer if you are pulled over for a tint violation.
According to the Jackson Police Department, having darker tint makes it harder for officers to see any movements inside the vehicle.
Violations can lead to citations and fines.
“My advice is to stay within the legal limit that way you keep yourself out of trouble,” said Sgt. Christopher Chilcote.
For new customers, measure your current tint, research local installers, and confirm compliance to avoid having to do any rework on your vehicle. Remember, when in doubt, consult a professional.
Many drivers mistakenly believe that law enforcement cannot pull them over solely based on the darkness of their window tint. That is not the case. An officer may pull over any vehicle they suspect violates Tennessee’s tint regulations and conduct a field comparison test.
Failure to submit to the field comparison test is a Class C misdemeanor.
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