Connecticut Window Tinting Laws: What You Need to Know

If you’re a car owner in Connecticut, you might be wondering about the state’s regulations regarding window tint.

Connecticut tint laws were enacted in 1993, and they are still in effect today.

These laws are designed to ensure that drivers can see and be seen on the road while protecting them from the harmful effects of UV radiation.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Connecticut’s tint laws and what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law.

Regulations Regarding Window Tint in Connecticut

In Connecticut, the amount of visible light that can pass through a vehicle’s windows is regulated by law.

The amount of visible light that can pass through the windshield, front side windows, and back side windows is different, and the amount that can pass through the rear window is yet another level.

Here’s what you need to know:

Window Type	Legal Tint Limit	Penalties for Violation
Windshield	Not below the AS-1 line	A fine of $150 for the first offense, $250 for a second offense, and $350 for the third offense; possible requirement to remove tint from windows
Front Side Windows	At least 35% visible light transmission	A fine of $150 for the first offense, $250 for the second offense, and $350 for the third offense; possible requirement to remove tint from windows
Back Side Windows	A fine of $150 for first offense, $250 for second offense, and $350 for third offense; possible requirement to remove tint from windows	Fine of $150 for first offense, $250 for second offense, and $350 for third offense; possible requirement to remove tint from windows
Rear Window	Any degree of tinting, as long as vehicle has side mirrors providing a view behind the vehicle	Fine of $150 for first offense, $250 for second offense, and $350 for third offense; possible requirement to remove tint from windows

Windshield

The windshield is not allowed to be tinted below the AS-1 line, which is located approximately 4-5 inches below the top of the windshield.

Front Side Windows

The front side windows (the driver’s side and front passenger’s side windows) must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through.

Back Side Windows

The back-side windows (behind the driver’s seat and behind the front passenger’s seat) can be tinted to any degree, as long as the vehicle has side mirrors that provide a view behind the car.

Rear Window

The rear window can also be tinted to any degree, as long as the vehicle has side mirrors that provide a view behind the car.

Additional Regulations

There are several additional regulations that drivers in Connecticut need to be aware of when it comes to window tint. Here are some of the most important ones:

Reflection

Window tint cannot reflect more than 27% of light.

Medical Exemptions

Drivers with certain medical conditions may be exempt from the window tint regulations.

To qualify for a medical exemption, a driver must obtain a prescription from a licensed physician.

Color Restrictions

Window tint cannot be red, blue, or yellow.

Side Mirrors

Vehicles with tinted windows must have side mirrors that provide a view behind the vehicle.

Exceptions to Legal Limits

There are a few exceptions to the legal limits on window tint in Connecticut. These include:

• Vehicles used for law enforcement or other emergency purposes
• Limousines and other vehicles used for chauffeured transportation
• Vehicles used for transporting prisoners
• Vehicles used for funeral processions

Penalties for Breaking the Law

If you’re caught violating Connecticut’s window tint laws, you could face penalties. Here’s what you need to know:

Fines

The fine for a first-time offense is $150. The fine for a second offense is $250, and the fine for a third offense is $350.

First Conviction

In addition to the fine, a driver who is convicted of violating Connecticut’s window tint laws may also be required to remove the tint from their windows.

Second Conviction

A second conviction for violating the window tint laws may result in a suspension of the driver’s license.

Third Conviction

A third conviction for violating the window tint laws may result in the revocation of the driver’s license.

Other Penalties

In addition to fines and license-related penalties, a driver who is convicted of violating the window tint laws may also be required to perform community service or attend a driver improvement program.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

If a vehicle is found to be non-compliant with Connecticut’s window tint laws during a safety inspection, the vehicle will not pass the inspection. This means that the driver will not be able to renew their vehicle registration until the tint is removed and the vehicle passes.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Connecticut

https://portal.ct.gov/

https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_246.htm#sec_14-99g

https://portal.ct.gov/DMV/Dealers-and-Repairs/Dealers-and-Repairs/Quick-Reference-on-Tinted-Windows

https://www.dmvct.state.ct.us/E220.aspx