Maryland Window Tint Laws

Maryland Tint laws regarding window tinting were enacted in 1995.

These laws regulate the amount of light that can pass through your car’s windows, ensuring that drivers have clear visibility while on the road.

The Maryland tint laws apply to all vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs, and failure to comply can result in hefty fines and penalties.

Regulations Regarding Window Tint in Maryland

The following regulations apply to window tinting in Maryland:

Window	Tint Level	Legal Limit
Windshield	N/A	Strip along the top 5 inches or below the AS-1 line
Front Side Windows	Up to 65% visible light transmission	At least 35% visible light transmission
Back Side Windows	Any	N/A
Rear Window	Any	N/A

Windshield

Maryland law prohibits the use of any tinting on the windshield except for a strip of tinting along the top of the windshield.

The tinting must not extend more than five inches below the top of the windshield or below the AS-1 line.

Front Side Windows

The front side windows must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through. This means that you can use a tinting film that blocks up to 65% of visible light.

Back Side Windows

The back side windows, behind the driver’s seat, can be tinted to any darkness level, 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 level of darkness, as long as the vehicle has side mirrors.

Additional Regulations

In addition to the regulations above, Maryland has other regulations that you should be aware of:

Reflection

Maryland law prohibits the use of any tinting that reflects more than 35% of light. This means that you cannot use any metallic or mirrored tinting films.

Medical Exemptions

If you have a medical condition that requires you to limit your exposure to sunlight, you can apply for a medical exemption to Maryland’s tinting laws. You will need to provide documentation from your doctor.

Color Restrictions

Maryland law prohibits the use of any red, blue, or amber tinting films. You can only use tinting films that are colorless, gray, or silver.

Side Mirrors

Maryland law requires that if you have tinted backside windows, you must have side mirrors that provide a view behind the car.

Exceptions to Legal Limits

There are some exceptions to Maryland’s legal limits on window tinting. These include:

• Vehicles used for law enforcement purposes
• Limousines and hearses
• Vehicles used for medical transportation
• Vehicles with manufacturer-installed tinting

Penalties for Breaking the Law

Fines

If you violate Maryland’s tinting laws, you can be fined up to $500 for the first offense, $1,000 for the second offense, and $2,000 for the third offense.

First Conviction

If you are convicted of violating Maryland’s tinting laws for the first time, you will be required to remove the tinting from your car’s windows and pay a fine.

Second Conviction

If you are convicted of violating Maryland’s tinting laws for the second time, you will be required to remove the tinting from your car’s windows, pay a fine, and attend a mandatory hearing.

Third Conviction

If you are convicted of violating Maryland’s tinting laws for the third time, you will be required to remove the tinting from your car’s windows, pay a fine, attend a mandatory hearing, and your car’s registration may be suspended.

Other Penalties

In addition to the penalties listed above, breaking Maryland’s tinting laws can result in other consequences.

For example, if you are pulled over for violating tinting laws, the officer may issue a citation and require you to remove the tinting on the spot.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

If you fail to remove the tinting from your car’s windows after being convicted of violating Maryland’s tinting laws, you may be subject to additional fines and penalties.

Your car may be impounded, and you may be required to appear in court to explain why you have not complied with the law.

Maryland’s tinting laws are in place to ensure that drivers have clear visibility on the road and to keep everyone safe.

Violating these laws can result in hefty fines and penalties, but complying with them can provide many benefits, such as reducing glare and keeping your car cool.

If you’re interested in tinting your car’s windows, be sure to choose a reputable shop that complies with Maryland’s laws to avoid fines and penalties.

References:

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

https://law.justia.com/codes/maryland/2018/transportation/title-22/subtitle-4/section-22-406/

https://www.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx

https://mdsp.ma.ryland.gov/ASED/Pages/FAQs.aspx