Car window tinting is a lot more than just a visual upgrade. There are several advantages to consider such as UV protection, increased privacy, interior protection, security, and comfort.
Standard car windows offer little to no UV protection. Another benefit of window tints is that they create a barrier around the glass which holds it together in case it shatters in the unfortunate event of an accident.
Even though window tints are legal pretty much everywhere, the United States has varying tint laws across its 50 states, including Maryland.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at these laws and explore the stipulated window tint requirements in Maryland.
Is Window Tint Legal In Maryland?
You can get your car windows tinted in Maryland. However, the state has specific rules and regulations regarding accepted tint levels.
Deviating from these regulations will result in penalties. Tint selection will depend on the type of vehicle and the position of the windows.
For instance, the specifications for tinting a windshield is different from tinting a rear window. Every state has different regulations.
Permitted Window Tint Darkness
Tint darkness is measured using the VLT unit, which is short for visible light transmission. It measures the percentage of light that can pass through your tint film.
The unit helps law enforcement officials determine the legality of your window tint. The higher the percentage of VLT, the lighter the tint. An effective tint always has a lower VLT%.
Below you’ll find the permitted levels of window tint darkness in Maryland.
Sedans
Windshield: The front windshield must have a non-reflective tint with 35% VLT on the upper 5″.
Driver-side windows: Tint darkness cannot be more than 35% VLT.
Passenger-side windows: Tint darkness cannot be more than 35% VLT.
Rear window: Tint darkness can’t be more than 35% VLT.
SUVs and Vans
Windshield: 35% VLT non-reflective tint is allowed on the upper 5″ or over the AS-1 line of the windshield.
Driver-side windows: 35% VLT is allowed.
Passenger-side windows: There are no limitations to tint darkness.
Rear-window: There are no limitations to tint darkness.
Acceptable Tint Reflection
In addition to filtering the amount of light that passes through the window, tint films also reflect light to reduce the heat and glare.
This is not the same as tint darkness. While tint darkness is related to transparency and opacity, tint reflection has more to do with reflecting some of the light away from the car.
Even though most states have specific tint reflection requirements, the Maryland legislature does not permit the use of window tints at all.
Other Maryland Tint Rules You Need to Know
- Side mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
- Colored tint: With the exception of red, blue, and amber, all other colored tints are acceptable.
- Window tint certification: Tint manufacturers are required to get state certification of the tint films.
- Certified sticker: There is no legal requirement to get a certified sticker proving the legality of the tinted windows. However, it is always a good idea to get one.
- Medical exemptions: In cases with medical conditions, car owners are allowed medical exemptions from tint laws. A physician-signed certificate is required to prove exemption.
- Fines for violations: In case of violation of tint laws, the offender may face a traffic penalty along with the issuance of an SERO or Safety Equipment Repair Order.
State of Maryland Info
Bordering the states of Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Delaware, the state of Maryland is the 7th state in the United States.
Though among the smallest states, it is densely populated.
It is home to a stunning diversity of landscapes ranging from forested hills to sandy dunes.
Population: 5,884,563
Capital: Annapolis
Registered vehicles: 1,977,742
Total lane miles: 68,889
Number of highways: 14
Tint law references: Lawsuit Information Center Blog | State Police