Tinted car windows are all the rage, especially amongst youngsters. However, being cool is not the only reason owners decided to tint their windows, but rather to protect themselves from harsh sunlight. Regardless of the reason, many people prefer tinting their windows instead of leaving them bare.
All American states allow vehicles to maintain tinted windows. However, tint laws vary from state to state. Therefore, car-owners who travel out of state often should keep themselves up-to-date with each state’s individual tint laws. Not adhering to the state’s window tint limits can land you with a heavy fine, or possibly worse.
To help you steer clear of trouble, we’ve compiled an all you need to know guide on Florida state laws within one article. In this compilation, we’ll go over key legal terms, Florida state laws for passenger and multi-purpose vehicles, and tint fine costs. We’ll also discuss what route you can take if you have a medical condition that requires reduced sunlight exposure when driving.
If you’re looking for tint laws for somewhere else, take a look at our article on tint laws by state.
Contents
Understanding Tint Law Lingo
Before diving into the details regarding Floridian state tint laws, let’s explore essential tint law lingo. The following terms can help you gain a better understanding of what these laws imply:
- VLT Percentage (%): VLT stands for ‘visible light transmission and is measured in percentages. Every state has a unique set of VLT laws concerning car window tints. Low VLT values imply that less light can pass through the tint film. Hence, states with lower VLT thresholds tolerate darkly tinted windows.
- Front-Side and Rear-Side Window Tint Level: ‘Front-side window tint level’ refers to the VLT% for a vehicle’s front windows. ‘Rear-side window tint level’ is the same but applies to the car’s back windows. Rear-side is often used interchangeably with the term ‘back-side.’
- Rear Window Tint Level: Not to be confused with ‘rear-side window tint level,’ this refers to the VLT% of the single window at a car’s rear end. This window opposes the windshield and is placed above the bumper.
- AS-1 Line: This line exists around 6 inches below the top of your windshield. The state of Florida allows cars to tint the area above this line.
How Dark Can You Tint Your Windows in Florida?
Florida has different rules and regulations for each type of vehicle. Below is a collection of essential information concerning Florida’s tint darkness laws for passenger and multi-purpose vehicles:
Florida Tint Laws for Passenger Vehicles
Florida’s tint laws are relatively straightforward to implement. Here’s a brief overview of what the Floridian law has to say regarding car Florida window tint laws:
- Minimum VLT for front side windows: 28%
- Minimum VLT for back-side and rear windows: 15%
- Windshield tint must fall above the AS-1 line.
Any tint darker than the values mentioned above may have legal implications. In addition, all vehicles must be equipped with functioning side mirrors to help ensure the driver has a clear view of the road. But, again, it’s challenging to observe the road and navigate accordingly through tinted windows.
Florida Tint Laws for Multipurpose Vehicles
Multi-purpose vehicles, including SUVs, must adhere to the following VLT limits:
- Minimum VLT for front side windows: 28%
- Minimum VLT for back-side and rear windows: 6%
- Windshield tint: Must fall above the AS-1 line
What the Florida Tint Law Prohibits
Floridian law allows 25% maximum reflectivity for all window tints within passenger vehicles. Multi-purpose vehicles can maintain up to 35% reflectiveness for back-side windows. This number falls to 25% for their front-side counterparts. However, windshield tints must be fully non-reflective. These limits will help reduce the chances of solar glare and ensure your sightline remains clear throughout your drive.
Excessively reflective surfaces can create mirages and cause road accidents, especially by reflecting the sun’s rays into the driver’s eyes. Following the 25% threshold for reflectivity will help you drive safely.
Medical Exemptions
The state of Florida allows people with the following medical conditions to increase their vehicle’s tint percentage:
- Vitiligo, albinism, xeroderma pigmentosum
- Dermatomyositis
- Lupus and other light-sensitive auto-immune diseases
If you can prove, you have any of the conditions noted above. The Floridian police won’t fine you for your darkened windows.
Window Tint Exemption Application
Florida’s Department of Motor Vehicles can grant you a medical-based exemption, allowing you to darken your windows above the current limit.
The state may ask you to see a qualified physician regarding your condition and obtain a letter from them. You may also be granted a special windshield sticker to prove your condition. This will help you stay out of trouble with local police.
Penalties for Non-Compliance of Floridian Tint Laws
Violation of Florida window tinting laws can result in a hefty fine. If you violate this law, the police may issue you a fine of up to $500.
Each window exceeding the allowed VLT% limit will be fined individually with a separate ticket. You must also appear before traffic police or government officials within 30 days of ticket issuance.
Parties caught installing or selling tint film that exceeds the prescribed limits within the state of Florida can also expect a fine. Plus, they may be liable to spend up to 60 days in jail or be granted a six-month probation period.
Benefits of Car Tint in Florida
Below is a list of benefits associated with tinting your car in Florida:
- The state of Florida receives plenty of harsh sunlight throughout the year. Excessive sun exposure is the leading cause of cancer and abnormal skin pigmentation. Luckily, tinting your windows can make it easier to dodge the sun’s harmful rays.
- Continuous sunlight exposure can cause your car’s interior to lose its original color. Its penetrating UV rays may encourage leather, vinyl, and related materials to fade faster than usual. Again, tinting your windows can help prevent this.
- Tinted windows allow less light in, ultimately allowing your car to stay cool on the inside.
- Darkened windows also allow for improved privacy and make long traffic jam stops less awkward. With tinted windows, you no longer need to worry about neighboring car drivers peeping into your vehicle.
Types of Windshield Tints
There are many different windshield tints available on the market. Ceramic tint and smart tint are both popular options. You can select a tint type depending on your affordability and personal needs.
Conclusion
Florida’s unique climate makes darkened windows a necessity more than a choice. However, when deciding on the window tinting option, be sure to keep laws in Florida in mind.