Window tinting laws differ from state to state. On this page, you’ll find the legal information relating to the New York tint law, including how dark and reflective the tint is allowed to be. We’ve also included the tint percentages, as well as any additional car window tinting rules and regulations in New York State.
New York State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in New York State?
Tint VLT: Windshield: must allow more than 70% of light in (non-reflective tint with any darkness can be used on top 6 inches)
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: up to 70% tint darkness
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: Any tint darkness if using dual exterior rearview mirrors
Tint VLT: Rear Window: any tint darkness if using dual exterior rearview mirrors.
How reflective can window tint be in New York State?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
Other New York State automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
Resisted Colors: No colors of tint are explicitly banned.
Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if back window is tinted.
Certificate Requirements: Manufacturers of film do NOT need to certify the film they sell in the state.
Sticker Requirements: The sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film and glass on each tinted window.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: you can face fines up to $150 for windows that are too dark.
New York Tint Law Reference
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in New York State?
The cost of auto window tinting in New York is around $289.30 for a four-door sedan, but it may be more than this depending on the size of your vehicle.
Automotive window tinting can cost anywhere in the region of $50-$600 or more if standard, non-reflective tint film is used, and $100-$800 or more with high-performance ceramic, carbon, metallic, colored, or other specialty tinting films.
The cost will also depend on the make, model, and type of vehicle, and whether or not the rear windows are curved or steep making them more difficult to tint – which will also add to the cost.
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
As of the latest New York State Health Department regulations updated in December 2017, medical exemptions from window tint laws can be granted to those with the following medical conditions: albinism, chronic actinic dermatitis/actinic reticuloid, dermatomyositis, lupus erythematosus, porphyria, xeroderma (pigmentosa) pigmentosum, severe drug photosensitivity, photophobia, or any other condition or disorder said to cause severe photosensitivity in which the individual is required to be shielded from direct sunlight for medical reasons.
To apply for medical exemption from tinted window law in New York state, you’ll need to fill out this form. Please note that part of the form needs to be completed by a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.