Understanding Florida's Window Tint Law in 2017
Florida's window tint law, established in 2007, was last updated in 2017, bringing changes that affect vehicle owners and law enforcement alike. This article aims to provide a comprehensive, easy-to-understand guide to Florida's window tint law as of 2017, ensuring you stay informed and compliant.
Why Window Tint Laws Exist
Window tint laws serve several purposes, including safety, health, and law enforcement. They help maintain driver visibility, prevent glare, and assist police in identifying vehicles during traffic stops. By understanding these laws, you can ensure your vehicle is safe, legal, and won't attract unwanted attention.
Florida's Window Tint Law: The Basics
Florida's window tint law, outlined in Section 316.2953, Florida Statutes, regulates the darkness of window tint on vehicles. The law applies to all vehicles, including passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs, with a few exceptions for medical exemptions.
Windshield and Front Side Windows
The law allows no tint on the windshield, and only a 20% tint (or less) on the front side windows. This ensures driver visibility and safety while operating the vehicle.
Rear Windows and Back Side Windows
For the rear windows and back side windows (on vehicles with a back seat), any darkness of tint is allowed, provided the vehicle is equipped with outside rearview mirrors on both sides.
Reflective Tint and Metallic Particles
Florida's window tint law also regulates reflective and metallic tint. Reflective tint, which has a mirror-like appearance, is prohibited on all windows. Metallic particles, which can interfere with police radar and other electronic devices, are also prohibited.
Medical Exemptions
Florida law allows for medical exemptions to the window tint law. Individuals with a medical condition that requires tinted windows, such as Lupus or Porphyria, may apply for an exemption. The application process involves submitting a completed form and a signed statement from a licensed physician.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Violating Florida's window tint law can result in a traffic citation and fine. In most cases, the vehicle will not be towed or impounded, but it may fail inspection if the tint is too dark. To avoid these penalties, it's essential to ensure your vehicle's window tint complies with the law.
How to Check Your Window Tint's Darkness
To check if your window tint is legal, you can use a tint meter, available at auto parts stores and online retailers. Alternatively, you can compare your tint to the darkness levels outlined in the table below:
| Window Type | Allowed Darkness (VLT%) |
|---|---|
| Windshield | No tint allowed |
| Front Side Windows | 20% or less |
| Rear Windows and Back Side Windows | Any darkness allowed |
VLT% stands for Visible Light Transmission, which is the percentage of light that can pass through the tint film. A lower VLT% indicates a darker tint.
Staying Informed and Compliant
Florida's window tint law is designed to ensure driver safety and visibility while allowing vehicle owners some flexibility in customizing their vehicles. By staying informed about the law and checking your window tint's darkness, you can ensure your vehicle is safe, legal, and won't attract unwanted attention from law enforcement.
