kentucky tint laws

Kentucky Tint Laws

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Jeffrey
August 10, 2022
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The information in this article will provide you with a thorough understanding of Kentucky tint laws, enabling you to drive safely and pleasantly.

To maintain your automobile comfortable for both your passengers and yourself, it is necessary to apply window tints to the windows of the vehicle.

Is the challenge in doing so while maintaining within the confines of the law and avoiding fines or other penalties?

Can You Have Tinted Windows And A Tinted Windshield In Kentucky?

Yes, you can have window tints and windshields installed in Kentucky, but you must be certain that you are operating within the parameters of the law and what the state allows in terms of VLT installation.

In the field of lighting, Visible Light Transmission (VLT) refers to the proportion of visible light that can pass through a windowpane.

Consider the following scenario: you have a window that is being referenced by a percentage.

That is an example of a VLT measurement.

For example, a 20 percent tint will let 20 percent of the visible light pass through the tint film you have installed.

In Kentucky, How Dark A Tint Can You Legally Get?

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The legal limit for rear windows and backside windows of SUVs and vans is 8 percent, and that is exclusively for these two types of windows.

In Kentucky, Is The Use Of 20 Tints Illegal?

To be precise, no. To comply with the VLT requirements, backside and rear windows must have a VLT of 18 percent.

Consequently, you may have tinting to the tune of 20%.

Those tints would be impossible to use on the front side windows, which must allow for a minimum of 35% light transmission.

Because the backside windows and rear windows of work vans (MPVs) and SUVs only need to be 8 percent VLT, you can go even darker in these vehicles.

The state of Kentucky does not have any restrictions on the use of tints or colors, which should be mentioned.

In addition, window tinting filmmakers are obliged to certify their products before they may be sold in the state.

Inquire with your tinting vendor about whether or not they are using certified tint film when you go to get your tinting completed.

In Kentucky, Can You Get Pulled Over For Tinting Your Windows?

If law police believe that your tinting is excessively dark, you will most certainly be hauled over.

It appears to be less of a problem in Kentucky, possibly because the state permits darker hues as compared to other states, but as always, it is best to stay within the legal boundaries to avoid getting into conflict with the authorities.

In Kentucky, How Much Does It Cost To Get A Tint Ticket?

We do not know a precise figure for how much a tint ticket will cost you in Kentucky, but we do not believe it will be inexpensive.

We recall reading about a Kentucky woman who was fined $140 when shopping in nearby Tennessee in 2015, and we are confident that these figures have since altered.

So it is advisable to simply stay within the legal tinting limitations to avoid paying the substantial fines associated with exceeding these restrictions.

Kentucky Tint Laws On Window Tint Darkness

In this section, we’ve included information on the darkness of window tint for a few distinct vehicles that are regularly seen on the highways of Kentucky.

Automobiles classified as passenger vehicles include the daily family vehicles we see on the road, such as hatchbacks, SUVs, sedans, convertibles, and coupes, as well as minivans.

Multi-purpose vehicles, on the other hand, relate to pickup trucks, full-size SUVs, and utility vans that are primarily utilized for transporting and work purposes rather than transportation.

In the case of a passenger vehicle

  • Glass: An unreflective tint is permissible above the AS-1 line on the manufacturer’s specification sheet.
  • Front and side windows must allow more than 35% of the available light to pass through.
  • Windows on the backside of the building must allow more than 18 percent of light to enter.
  • The rear window must allow more than 18 percent of the available light to pass through.

When it comes to MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)

  • Much above the AS-1 line of the manufacturer’s windshield, unreflective tint is permissible.
  • Front and side windows must allow more than 35% of the available light to pass through to be considered functional.
  • A minimum of 8% light should be allowed to penetrate via the back side windows.
  • Ensure that the rear window allows more than 8% of the available light to get through.

Reflection Of Window Tint In Kentucky

Reflective window tint is fashionable, it looks nice, and it gives privacy and comfort to both passengers and drivers.

They function similarly to a two-way mirror in that you can see out of them, but those standing outside your car can only see their reflection when they gaze into your tints.

It’s especially handy if you reside in an area where the weather tends to be warm, as is the case in the state of Kentucky.

The good news is that you are allowed to have a particular level of reflection with car window tinting, so pay attention!

In the case of a passenger vehicle

  • Front side windows cannot be more reflective than 25% of the total reflection.
  • Windows on the backside of the building are not allowed to be more than 25 percent reflecting.

In the case of MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)

  • Front side windows cannot be more reflective than 25% of the total reflection.
  • Windows on the backside of the building are not allowed to be more than 25 percent reflecting.

Reflective hues do appear to be attractive.

Cars must, however, exercise caution when using these tints because the sunshine can bounce off them and cause discomfort to other drivers around them.

In Kentucky, How Can You Obtain A Medical Exemption For Window Tint?

Unfortunately, when it comes to window tinting, the state of Kentucky does not allow for medical exemptions to be granted.

Those who choose to wear tinted windows in the state of Kentucky must display a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb indicating that they are legal, regardless of whether or not they have a medical condition that requires them.

Tinting Your Car Windows: The Top 5 Advantages

With frequent tune-ups and maintenance, you take care of your car’s engine, but have you considered the care of your windows?

It’s easy to overlook the practical advantages of window film, commonly referred to as window tint, because of its aesthetic value.

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1. Window Tinting Can Help Protect Car Upholstery

This is an important asset that you want to maintain for as long a period as feasible.

To safeguard your investment, it is recommended that you have window tinting properly put on your vehicle.

While parking your car in the shade can help to decrease sun damage temporarily or wearing a windshield sun protector, window film provides persistent protection from intense sunlight that can fade upholstery and discolor leather or vinyl.

As a result, your car’s inside will remain in better condition for a longer period.

Window tinting also helps to reduce eye fatigue caused by direct sunlight and bright nighttime headlights by reducing glare on the windshield and inside the vehicle.

2. UV Rays Are Blocked By Window Tinting

Using car window tinting, you can protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV radiation, which can speed up the aging process and even lead to cancer.

Extreme ultraviolet light (also known as UV rays) is a type of electromagnetic radiation that can be found in the sun.

Skin damage from prolonged exposure to the sun can include skin burns, skin darkening, premature aging, and skin cancer, among other things.

Window film, even if it is clear or has a slight tint to it, can provide ultraviolet protection by blocking both the harmful UVA and UVB rays that enter the window.

Approximately 53 percent of skin malignancies in the United States are found on the left side of the body, which corresponds to the driver’s side of an automobile.

For persons who drive for long periods, such as clear UV vehicle window tint, and window film protection can be a significant advantage in reducing the danger of accidents.

3. Tinted Car Windows Reduce Solar Heat Absorption

It’s possible that window tinting will assist you to solve your air conditioning difficulty if you’ve been struggling to find the proper level of cooling for all of your passengers.

Depending on the quality, automotive window film can reduce the amount of solar heat that accumulates in a vehicle by anywhere from 35 to 65 percent.

You can achieve a comfortable atmosphere for everyone while reducing fuel consumption due to excessive usage of air conditioning.

4. Window Film Provides Protection Against Broken Glass

The importance of placing window film on your car’s windows cannot be overstated in terms of its safety benefits.

When an object strikes a window film, it is intended to prevent the glass from breaking.

The occupants in a car accident are shielded from flying shattered glass and being catapulted through the windows thanks to airbags.

Additionally, burglars will have a more difficult time breaking through the tinted glass to get access to your vehicle.

5. Improved Privacy And Security Can Be Achieved With Window Tint

While driving along the road, window tinting can give a sense of seclusion for you and your passengers by offering a variety of shading options to choose from.

When you park your car, you may walk away confident that inquisitive eyes will not be able to see the valuables you have inside.

There are numerous advantages to applying window tint in your vehicle that goes beyond simply improving the appearance of your vehicle.

When you want to secure your vehicle as well as those who are traveling with you, it might help you feel more at ease.

Car Window Tint Percentage: How to Select the Right One for Your Vehicle

A basic understanding of percentages is necessary if you wish to tint your vehicle.

This tutorial will show you how to select the optimal window tint % for your vehicle.

Percentage Of Car Window Tint

Window tinting is available in several percentages ranging from 5 percent to 90 percent.

In this case, the % refers to the quantity of VLT (visible light transmission) which can be transmitted through the windows.

As a result, the darker the shade is, the lower the % is set.

If you don’t want your windows to be completely dark, a 50 percent tint is an excellent choice.

It will only block half of the light that enters your vehicle, but it will still protect you from UV rays and heat in the summer.

Furthermore, it will still reduce glare and eye strain, which will result in safer driving conditions.

A 35 percent tint will provide you with extra darkness, but it will still allow you to see through it easily.

This tint is popular among drivers because of its trendy and sleek appearance.

Those seeking solitude from their surroundings should consider using a 20 percent tint, which is highly advised by experts.

When you are up close to a window with a 20 percent tint, it is feasible to see through it, but it is still difficult.

However, it is usually adequate to deter snoopers from their activities.

When automobiles are delivered to customers with factory tint installed, the tint is usually between 15 and 20 percent in strength.

There are no visible reflections from car windows with a 5 percent tint, which means you can’t see anything through them at all.

A 5 percent tint is considered prohibited in the majority of states.

It’s most typically seen on the back windows of private automobiles and limousines, but it can be found anywhere.

How To Pick the Right Tint Percentage

The allowable tint % in your state is an important consideration when deciding how much tint to get on your car.

Each state has its own set of regulations governing the percentage of window tint that can be used on your car.

To avoid getting fined and having your license suspended, don’t put in a film that lets in less light than what is required by law in your state.

Eventually, you’ll have to replace the film and change it with one that complies with your state’s regulations.

It’ll end up costing you more time and effort than it’s worth in the end.

Here are some additional guidelines for determining the right tint percentage for your needs.

Consider Your Car’s Appearance

Keep in mind that, unless you choose a fairly high percentage rating, tinting your car will significantly alter its appearance.

With tinted windows, your interior will feel different and your exterior will have a different look.

Decide what kind of look you want to achieve before deciding on a tint percentage for your car.

Err on the side of caution if you’re concerned about it looking too dark.

Find Out Why You Want Your Car To Become Tinted

If you wish to have your car tinted, why is that?

Do you want total privacy?

UV rays can be dangerous, so do you want to shield yourself and your vehicle from them Choosing a car tint percentage is based on your intended use for the film.

It is possible to acquire UV-blocking film that does not darken your windows but yet prevents practically all of the sun’s UV rays if UV rays are your primary concern.

Still, you’ll be shielded from the sun’s damaging rays thanks to the film.

The darker the film, the less likely it is that your automobile will be broken into.

If you want to reduce the frequency of light-induced headaches while also improving your driving experience, use a tint with a high light-blocking percentage rather than a low one.

A High-Quality Film Is Essential

Always choose a high-quality film, regardless of the tint percentage you select.

You should acquire the film from a professional window tinting company instead of purchasing it online.

Retailer films typically have shorter lives, which means you’ll end up spending more money in the long run because you’ll need to replace them more frequently.

In the long run, you’ll save money by hiring experienced window tinters to apply high-quality film to your windows.

It also adds value to your automobile and prolongs the life of your vehicle by using a high-quality film.

Have It Done By A Professional

Even if it is possible to set up your automobile window tint, doing so is not advised.

Window tint installation necessitates specialized training and experience to ensure that the film does not bubble up.

If your film bubbles, your vehicle will begin to appear old and worn over time.

It is also possible that it will fade or change color after only a few months of being installed.

Professional installers will provide a written warranty as well as high-quality work.

Additionally, they will assist you in determining the appropriate tint % for your vehicle and ensuring that your selection is compliant with state regulations.

The Bottomline

Taking the effort to learn about Kentucky tint laws is greatly appreciated.

Since Kentucky’s average summer temperature in the summer months is 87 degrees, it should come as no surprise that you are on the search for window tints.

Fortunately, the state is more tolerant when it comes to this aftermarket addition when compared to other states, so feel free to have them applied at a certified shop that claims to adhere to the state’s tinting regulations.

This will provide you with the comfort and privacy you require while also ensuring the safety of law enforcement officers and other motorists on the road.

Jeffrey

Jeffrey Bryce is an experienced motorcycle rider with years of experience caring for motorcycles. His natural fondness for motorcycles have made him come up with LetsGoForARide.com, which is dedicated to answering and teaching you how to care for your bike with the care it requires. LetsGoForARide is the one of his important lifework in reaching out to communities of motorcycle enthusiasts on how to take care of their bike and choosing the correct spare part.