In the vast open ranges of Wyoming, the sun can be relentless.
To shield themselves from its bright rays, many drivers opt to tint their car windows.
However, to ensure safety and visibility, the state of Wyoming established specific window tinting laws.
First enacted in 1996, these Wyoming tint laws balance protection from the sun and the necessity for clear vision on the road.
Regulations Regarding Window Tint in Wyoming
Wyoming’s laws outline the darkness, reflectivity, and even color of window tint allowed.
There are also specific rules for different types of vehicles – sedans, SUVs, and vans.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Window | Sedans | SUVs and Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches | Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches |
| Front Side Windows | Must allow more than 28% of light in | Must allow more than 28% of light in |
| Back Side Windows | Must allow more than 28% of light in | Any tint of darkness can be used |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 28% of light in | Any tint darkness can be used |
Windshield
Non-reflective tint is permissible in Wyoming, but only above the vehicle manufacturer’s AS-1 line or on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
This restriction ensures that a driver’s field of vision is not compromised.
Front Side Windows
The front side windows of any vehicle must allow over 28% of light in.
This rule is crucial for visibility – drivers must be able to see pedestrians and other vehicles, and law enforcement must be able to see the vehicle’s interior.
Back Side Windows
Unlike front side windows, back side windows have different rules depending on the vehicle type.
Sedans must allow more than 28% of light in, the same as the front side windows.
However, in SUVs and vans, there’s no rule specifying how dark the tint can be.
This lack of restriction offers more privacy and sun protection for backseat passengers.
Rear Window
For the rear window, similar rules apply as those for back side windows.
For sedans, the law dictates that over 28% of light must be allowed in, while there’s no limit for the darkness of tint in SUVs and vans.
Additional Regulations
Beyond the basic regulations, the state has several more nuances in its laws.
Reflection
To help in reducing glare and heat, window tints can reflect incoming light.
However, there are regulations in Wyoming regarding the reflectivity of window tints.
No matter the type of vehicle, the law states that the front and back side windows must not be over 20% reflective.
This rule helps reduce the potential blinding effect on other drivers caused by highly reflective tints.
Medical Exemptions
Wyoming tint laws offer exceptions for medical conditions requiring darker tints.
However, to apply such an exemption, a physician’s documentation is needed.
Color Restrictions
Tint colors also have specific restrictions in Wyoming.
Red, yellow, and amber tints are prohibited on the windshield. Other window tints do not have color restrictions.
Side Mirrors
If the back window of a vehicle is tinted, Wyoming law requires that the vehicle must have dual side mirrors.
This regulation helps ensure visibility, as heavily tinted back windows can obscure the view from the rear.
Exceptions to Legal Limits
There are instances where you may be legally permitted to have tints darker than the state standard.
These exceptions often involve certain medical conditions that require extra protection from sunlight.
Penalties for Breaking the Law
Breaking the Wyoming tint laws can result in fines and other penalties.
Here’s what you might face upon conviction:
Fines
In Wyoming, the fines for violating window tint laws escalate with each conviction.
- First Conviction: The initial penalty for a tint violation typically includes a fine. The amount may vary based on the degree of the violation.
- Second Conviction: A second conviction usually involves a higher fine than the first, and potential probation.
- Third Conviction: Subsequent convictions may result in even higher fines, probation, or potentially, a brief jail term.
Other Penalties
Alongside the monetary penalties, drivers may also be required to remove the illegal tint from their vehicle windows.
This removal can be an added inconvenience and expense.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Refusal to comply with these laws and repeated offenses can lead to more severe penalties.
Moreover, having an illegally tinted vehicle can result in difficulties with insurance claims following an accident.
Knowing the intricacies of Wyoming tint laws can save you from potential fines, inconveniences, and safety issues.
These regulations are not merely about aesthetics or privacy but also about ensuring safety on Wyoming’s roads.
So, before you opt for that sleek dark tint, make sure it’s within the legal boundaries set by your state.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wyoming
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wyoming
https://law.justia.com/codes/wyoming/2019/title-31/chapter-5/article-9/section-31-5-962/