What Is the Legal Tint in West Virginia?
Window tinting has become a popular choice among vehicle owners in West Virginia. Not only does it enhance the appearance of your vehicle, but it also provides several benefits such as privacy, protection from harmful UV rays, and reduction of heat inside the car. However, it is important to understand the legal regulations surrounding window tinting to avoid any penalties or legal issues. In this article, we will discuss the legal tint in West Virginia, including the applicable laws, restrictions, and frequently asked questions.
West Virginia Tint Laws
To ensure the safety of motorists and law enforcement officers, West Virginia has established specific guidelines regarding window tinting. These regulations are based on the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage, which refers to the amount of light that can penetrate through the window.
1. Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top five inches of the windshield.
2. Front Side Windows: The front side windows must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
3. Back Side Windows: There are no restrictions on tint darkness for the back side windows.
4. Rear Window: Similar to back side windows, there are no restrictions on tint darkness for the rear window.
5. Reflective Tint: The use of reflective tint is not permitted on any windows.
6. Restricted Colors: The state of West Virginia does not restrict the colors of window tint.
FAQs
1. Is it legal to have tinted windows in West Virginia?
Yes, it is legal to have tinted windows in West Virginia as long as the tint is within the legal limits specified by the state’s regulations.
2. How is the tint darkness measured?
Tint darkness is measured using the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. This percentage indicates the amount of light that can pass through the window.
3. Can I have tinted windows on my front side windows?
Yes, you can have tinted windows on your front side windows as long as they allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
4. Are there any restrictions on the color of window tint?
No, West Virginia does not restrict the color of window tint. However, it is important to note that excessively dark or mirrored tint may attract attention from law enforcement officers.
5. Can I use reflective tint on my windows?
No, the use of reflective tint is not permitted on any windows in West Virginia.
6. What are the consequences of illegal window tint?
If your vehicle’s window tint does not comply with West Virginia’s regulations, you may face penalties such as fines, citations, or even having to remove the illegal tint.
7. Can I get a medical exemption for darker tint?
Yes, West Virginia allows individuals with a medical condition to apply for an exemption from the window tint regulations. However, this exemption must be approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
8. Are there any exceptions to the window tint regulations?
Yes, there are exceptions for certain types of vehicles. For example, limousines are allowed to have a darker tint on the rear windows.
In conclusion, West Virginia has specific guidelines regarding window tinting to ensure the safety of motorists and law enforcement officers. It is important for vehicle owners to understand and abide by these regulations to avoid penalties or legal issues. The legal tint in West Virginia allows non-reflective tint on the top five inches of the windshield, more than 35% of light transmission on front side windows, and no specific restrictions on tint darkness for back side windows and rear windows. Reflective tint is not permitted on any windows, and there are no restrictions on the color of window tint. It is crucial to comply with these regulations to enjoy the benefits of window tinting without encountering any legal consequences.