North Carolina Window Tint Laws
Updated 2026-01-15 · North Carolina General Statutes Section 20-127
In North Carolina, the legal window tint limit is 35% VLT for front side windows, 35% VLT for back side windows, and 35% VLT for the rear window. North Carolina offers medical exemptions for darker tint. Violations can result in fines of $50-$200 for first offenses.
Is My Tint Legal?
Pick your state, the window, and your tint percentage. We'll tell you if it's legal — instantly.
Disclaimer & how this works
This tool checks your VLT% against your state's published legal limits. Some states allow medical exemptions for darker tint with proper documentation. Not legal advice — verify with your state DMV before applying tint.
Visual Guide: North Carolina Tint Limits
The diagram below shows the legal VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentages for each window position in North Carolina. A lower percentage means darker tint is allowed.
North Carolina Tint Laws: Detailed Breakdown
| Window | Sedan |
|---|---|
| Front Windshield | 35% VLT |
| Front Side Windows | 35% VLT |
| Back Side Windows | 35% VLT |
| Rear Window | 35% VLT |
Reflective Tint Rules in North Carolina
North Carolina allows reflective tint with restrictions. Window tint must not be more than 20% reflective.
Visor Strip Rules
North Carolina allows a tinted visor strip (sun strip) on the windshield. The strip must not extend more than 5 inches from the top of the windshield.
Color Restrictions
The following tint colors are restricted or banned in North Carolina: red, amber.
Medical Exemptions in North Carolina
North Carolina allows medical exemptions with a physician-signed form filed with the DMV. The exemption documentation must typically be kept in the vehicle at all times.
Penalties for Illegal Tint in North Carolina
First Offense
$50-$200
Fine range for first violation
Second+ Offense
$100-$500
Fine range for repeat violations
Law enforcement uses a tint meter to measure the VLT percentage of your windows during traffic stops. If your tint is darker than the legal limit, you may receive a fix-it ticket or a fine depending on the state and officer's discretion.
North Carolina vs Neighboring States
Planning a road trip? Here's how North Carolina's tint laws compare to neighboring states. Make sure your tint is legal wherever you drive.
| State | Front Side | Back Side | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Virginia | 50% | 35% | 35% |
| Tennessee | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Georgia | 32% | 32% | 32% |
| South Carolina | 27% | 27% | 27% |
Understanding North Carolina's Tint Laws
North Carolina applies a consistent 35% VLT standard across all vehicle windows. Fines between $50 and $200 give law enforcement flexibility, while medical exemptions provide relief for qualifying drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in North Carolina?
For front side windows in North Carolina, the darkest legal tint is 35% VLT. Back side windows allow 35% VLT and the rear window allows 35% VLT.
Can you get a ticket for window tint in North Carolina?
Yes, illegal window tint in North Carolina is a traffic violation. First offense fines typically range from $50-$200. Second and subsequent offenses can cost $100-$500. Officers use a tint meter to measure VLT percentage during traffic stops.
Does North Carolina allow medical exemptions for window tint?
North Carolina allows medical exemptions with a physician-signed form filed with the DMV
Is reflective or mirrored tint legal in North Carolina?
North Carolina does allow some reflective tint. Window tint must not be more than 20% reflective.
What are North Carolina's tint laws for SUVs and trucks?
In North Carolina, SUVs and trucks follow the same tint laws as sedans. Front side windows require 35% VLT, back side windows allow 35% VLT, and the rear window allows 35% VLT.
Resources
Legal Reference
North Carolina window tint regulations are governed by North Carolina General Statutes Section 20-127. Always verify current laws with your local DMV or law enforcement, as regulations can change.
Last updated: 2026-01-15