In this guide, we have collected information regarding Maryland State window tint law, including basic requirements such as tint percentage. Also available is information regarding how dark can window tint be, and how reflective can window tint be in Maryland, alongside any restrictions. Maryland state introduced window tint laws in 1995.
Maryland State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in Maryland?
Tint VLT: Windshield: Non-reflective 35% VLT is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield, or to the AS-1 line.
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Tint VLT: Rear Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
How reflective can window tint be in Maryland?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: Reflective and mirrored tint is prohibited.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: Reflective and mirrored tint is prohibited.
Other Maryland automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
Restricted Colors: Tint colors RED, AMBER, and YELLOW are restricted.
Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the back windows are tinted.
Certificate Requirements: Manufacturers are required to certify the film they sell.
Sticker Requirements: A sticker identifying legal tinting, placed between the glass and the film on each window, is recommended.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Traffic offense, plus Safety Equipment Repair Order (SERO), requiring certification of tint.
Maryland Tint Law Reference
Maryland Transportation Code section 22-406: Safety glazing material in motor vehicles
Maryland State Police – Vehicle Equipment FAQs
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in Maryland State?
Car window tinting in Maryland State can be expensive, with an average cost of roughly $250 for a standard tint. A basic film tint on a four-door sedan is likely to cost upwards of $200, but it may be possible to find a cheaper option. A higher quality tint such as a ceramic tint will cost significantly more, and may exceed a price of $400. The most affordable option is a DIY tint, which can potentially cost less than $100. The price varies depending on the size of the vehicle.
How Does Car Window Tinting Work?
When you tint a window, a lightweight film is applied to the inside pane of the glass. It is not applied to the outside of the glass. This is to protect the tinting from wear and tear, flying debris, and harsh sunlight.
The first layer will be a strong polyester laminate which should improve the performance of the windows. The polyester is a transparent film.
The next film will have tinting agents like metals and dyes, which create the shading effect. This is the layer that blocks UV rays to protect your skin from overexposure to harsh sunlight.
What Is The Best DIY 35% Tinting Product?
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to find a tint that will actually work well on your car, especially if you buy it online. We have done a lot of research to figure out the best tinting product to apply to your vehicle yourself, and we recommend using the MKBROTHER.
Why Is This The Best?
We praise MKBROTHER so highly because of their easy-to-apply directions, their 99% UV blocking, and their scratch-resistant materials.
The MKBROTHER has a strong tint which allows in visible light but rejects the heat of the sun and the UV rays up to 99% while still sticking to the 35% restriction. This blocking doesn’t create a glare which means you won’t be distracted by the moving sunlight. The lack of glare also means that your vehicle’s interior won’t be affected by the sun rays, allowing it to stay showroom-ready for longer.
As the film is not made from metal fragments, you don’t have to worry about the tinting blocking any of your technology which normally relies on signaling.
How To Apply To Your Car
The tint is made of an adhesive film, which means all you need to do is apply the tint to the car’s window, with no special equipment on hand.
First, you need to clean the glass on your car to remove any impurities. Next, you want to cut the film to match your car’s window size. We would advise that you check their sizing section before buying, as you will want more than enough to cover your window.
After that, you can pull one corner of the tint’s protective layers to expose the adhesive. You will be given a spray solution. Spray this solution onto the adhesive side of the film and onto the inside of the window you are planning on tinting. At this point, depending on your state, you would apply the legalization sticker.
Lastly, you should place the film onto the window with the adhesive sides connecting. Then flatten out any bubbles which may have occurred in the process. If you have left any film on the edge of the window, you can cut it off with an extractor knife.
Pros & Cons Of DIY vs Professional Fitting
There is an obvious reason for doing a DIY fitting instead of hiring a professional, and that’s the price. DIY tinting is so much cheaper that it is definitely worth considering. This can help you either save money or allow you to buy better quality film without the higher charge that the professional will ask for.
However, there is a reason why professionals charge these higher prices. It’s because creating a seamless installation isn’t always easy. If you put the tinting on incorrectly, it won’t last as long, nor will it protect you as much as it should.
Medical Exemption
The state of Maryland does allow medical exemptions for special darker tints. These exemptions are permitted for those who have a medical issue, and require a greater level of shielding from the sun. A medical exemption is obtained by requesting a written statement from a licensed physician, declaring the special tint to be medically necessary.
The physician must hold a valid license to practice in the state of Maryland. This statement must be kept in the vehicle at all times, as proof of the exemption. The statement must be produced, should a police officer request to see it.