Maine introduced window tint laws in 1989 and was the eighth state to do so. Whether you are installing tints to combat harmful UV rays or reduce glare from headlights at night, some regulations need to be met. Below we have compiled all the information you need to ensure that your tint meets these regulations.
Maine State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in Maine?
Tint VLT: Windshield: non-reflective tint is permitted, providing it is above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches of the windshield, whichever comes first.
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: up to 35% tint darkness is permitted.
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: up to 35% tint darkness is permitted.
Tint VLT: Rear Window: up to 35% tint darkness is permitted.
How reflective can window tint be in Maine?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: Must be non-reflective.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: must be non-reflective.
Other Maine automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
Restricted Colors: all colored tints are legal in Maine.
Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are needed if your back window is tinted.
Certificate Requirements: film manufacturers must certify their film before its sold in Maine. Check with your dealer that the film has been certified before installing it.
Sticker Requirements: Stickers on the legally tinted windows are not a legal requirement.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: you can get pulled over by the police and charged with fines in some cases, usually for a petty misdemeanor.
Maine Tint Law Reference
https://mainelegislature.org/legis/statutes/29-A/title29-Asec1916.html
https://www.tinting-laws.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/maine-TintWaiverApplication.pdf
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in Maine State?
The cost of window tinting in Maine varies across the state. The cost varies depending on the number of windows being tinted, the cost of the film, and the dealer’s labor costs. If you shop around, you can usually find a lower price.
We recommend doing some research online or contacting local dealers to find out their prices. Typically, the cost of window tinting in Maine isn’t too expensive, but it’s always worth looking for a bargain!
Set a budget and try to stick to it as best as possible to ensure you get the best deal. In some cases, you might need to travel to a different town or city to find these lower prices; factor the travel cost of this into your budget.
How Does Car Window Tinting Work?
Window tinting consists of applying a tinted film onto the window surface glass. The film is placed on the inside of the window instead of the outside, allowing it to be more protected from the elements.
The window tint film is made from polyester laminate with another layer over the top of it. This extra thin layer is made up of the tinting agent chosen, such as metal, dye, ceramic, or more. This second layer is the one that is responsible for protecting the inside of your car from harmful UV rays and bright light.
What Is The Best DIY 70% Tinting Product?
There are plenty of 70% tinting films on the market, and it can be difficult knowing which is the best for your vehicle. From extensive research, we have found that the best 70% tinting product is the G Greenfilm Static Cling Window Tint 70% Window Film.
Why Is This The Best?
This tinting film only blocks 17% of visible light, which is considerably less than other tinting films on the market. This keeps your car bright and safe while you still benefit from its high-quality UV blocking technology.
The manufactured PVC film is lightweight and able to stick to your window through static instead of glue, making it easy to install. You don’t need to worry about enlisting the help of a professional with this 70% film!
Nanotechnology blocks up to 99.9% of UV rays as well as 85% IR. This film offers an impressive amount of protection to you and other passengers without blocking too much of the natural sunlight.
The manufacturer of this tinting film also offers an installation kit to purchase separately, making it even easier for you to apply to your windows.
How To Apply To Your Car
Applying the G Greenfilm Static Cling Window Tint could not be easier, with the manufacturer only needing three steps to explain it fully. However, you should cut your film before applying it to the windows.
This film comes in seven different sizes, so make sure that you opt for the correct roll of film to sufficiently cover your car windows.
Once you have cut all of the window shapes from your tinting film, it is time to apply the tint to the window.
The first step is to clean the window with a high-quality window cleaner, ensuring that there are no streaks or dust left. Next, spray both the window and film on both sides with the specialized solution.
Apply the film to the window, as straight as possible, to the window. It doesn’t matter which side of the film you use.
Now use a squeegee to remove the solution from under the film, using firm pressure. Make sure that no bubbles are left underneath the film and that it is completely applied to the glass. You will need to leave this to dry for several days.
Pros & Cons Of DIY vs Professional Fitting
For starters, DIY fitting is cheaper and more economical than having it professionally fitted. You also have more of a say of which film to go for depending on your budget if you were to DIY the job yourself.
However, fitting window tints is not easy, and therefore you might be left with poorer results if you were to DIY it rather than using a professional. If you made a mistake, repairing it can also be very expensive. You also won’t get a warranty on the tint like you would if you were to use a professional, so DIYing the job can actually cost you more money in the long run if you were to do a bad job.
Professionals might be more expensive, but they are likely to have much more experience than you. They’ll also have access to more films in terms of technology and colors. You are also more likely to get a warranty on your purchase.
Medical Exemption
For certain medical conditions, your vehicle can be exempt from the regulations listed above. In these cases, you can have your windows tinted darker, as per your needs. To qualify, you will need to apply via the Chief of the State Police. You can apply online using the easy form linked above too.
The form will need to be signed by a licensed physician, too, to verify your claims.
You will be issued with a certificate of exemption which you should keep in your vehicle at all times. If questioned, you have the correct proof to avoid you landing in hot water with the police! Display the proof to ensure that you are never wrongly pulled over.