Massachusetts Tint Laws: Regulations and Penalties

Window tinting is a popular way to customize your car, add some privacy, and protect the interior from harmful UV rays.

However, different states have different laws and regulations when it comes to tinting windows, and Massachusetts is no exception.

If you’re a Massachusetts resident, it’s essential to understand the state’s tint laws to avoid fines, tickets, or even having to remove the tint from your vehicle.

Regulations Regarding Window Tint in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts tint laws were enacted in 1985, and they apply to all vehicles registered in the state.

The laws specify how much tinting is allowed on different windows of the car, the types of materials that can be used, and the levels of reflectivity.

Window Type	Tinting Regulations
Windshield	Only a top strip is allowed, which can’t be darker than 35%.
Front Side Windows	Must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through.
Back Side Windows	Can be tinted as dark as desired, as long as side mirrors provide at least a 200-foot view behind the car.
Rear Window	Must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through, unless side mirrors provide at least a 200-foot view behind the car.

Windshield

The windshield of your car cannot have any tinting except for a top strip that can’t extend more than six inches down from the top of the windshield.

The tint on this strip can’t be darker than 35%.

Front Side Windows

The front side windows of your car, meaning the driver’s side and the passenger’s side, must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through the glass.

This means that the tint can’t be darker than 35%.

However, medical exemptions can be made for individuals who require additional protection from the sun due to medical conditions.

Back Side Windows

The back side windows, meaning the windows behind the driver and passenger, can be tinted as dark as you want, as long as your car has side mirrors that provide at least a 200-foot view behind the vehicle.

Rear Window

The rear window of your car can also be tinted, but it must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through.

The only exception to this rule is if your car has side mirrors that provide at least a 200-foot view behind the vehicle.

Additional Regulations

In addition to the above regulations, Massachusetts has some other rules that drivers must abide by when it comes to tinting their windows.

Reflection

The tint on your windows cannot reflect more than 35% of light, and this includes metallic or mirrored films.

Medical Exemptions

If you have a medical condition that requires you to have darker tinting on your front side windows or windshield, you can apply for a medical exemption.

This exemption allows you to have a darker tint on those windows than what is usually allowed by law.

Color Restrictions

Massachusetts doesn’t have any specific color restrictions when it comes to window tinting.

However, some colors, such as red or blue, may be prohibited because they could be confused with emergency vehicle lights.

Side Mirrors

If your car’s rear window is tinted, you must have side mirrors that provide at least a 200-foot view behind the vehicle.

Exceptions to Legal Limits

There are a few exceptions to the legal limits set by Massachusetts tint laws.

For example, vehicles used for law enforcement purposes, such as police cars, can have darker tinting on their windows.

Additionally, antique cars that were manufactured before January 1, 1969, are exempt from these regulations.

Penalties for Breaking the Law

If you’re caught driving a vehicle with illegal window tinting in Massachusetts, you could face fines and penalties. Here’s a breakdown of the penalties for breaking the law:

Fines

The fines for breaking Massachusetts tint laws can range from $50 to $500, depending on the severity of the violation.

First Conviction

For a first conviction, the offender will have to pay a fine of up to $250.

Second Conviction

For a second conviction, the offender will have to pay a fine of up to $500.

Third Conviction

For a third conviction, the offender will have to pay a fine of up to $1,000, and their driver’s license may be suspended for up to a year.

Other Penalties

In addition to fines and license suspensions, if you’re caught driving with illegal tinting in Massachusetts, you may also be required to remove the tint from your vehicle or face impoundment of your car.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

If you’re required to remove the tint from your car and fail to do so, or if you continue to drive with illegal tinting after receiving a ticket, you could face even more severe penalties.

In addition to fines, you could face the impoundment of your vehicle, and your license may be suspended or revoked.

Understanding Massachusetts tint laws is essential if you want to avoid fines, penalties, and the hassle of removing illegal tinting from your vehicle.

By complying with these laws, you can still enjoy the benefits of tinting, such as UV protection and a cooler car, without facing legal consequences.

References:

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

https://www.mass.gov/

https://malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleXIV/Chapter90/Section9D

https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-tinted-glass-waiver-for-your-vehicle