Show WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content. Massachusetts window tint laws accept tints up to 6 inches from the top of your windshield. For additional windows—like the front sides, rear sides, and rear—tints may be applied up to 35%. Tinted windows are an excellent way for drivers to personalize their vehicle, adding extra privacy and style. Too much tint can affect your visibility and the safety of other drivers, though, so each state has limits when it comes to darkening your windows. To ensure you stay in compliance with Massachusetts law, the car insurance comparison super app Jerry has everything you need to know about acceptable window tinting in the Old Bay State. The visible light transmission (VLT) percentage demonstrates how much light can pass through a window tint film. Each state has its own rules on this percentage. A higher VLT means more light can pass through the window’s film. For example, a 45% VLT means 45% of the light can pass through your tint, while a 5% VLT only allows 5% of the light to pass through—meaning you can’t see into the vehicle whatsoever. The Massachusetts window tint law limits the degree to which you can tint your window—and is the same across most civilian vehicles. Here are the limits for Massachusetts: Front windshield: Non-reflective (or metallic) at AS-1 line or up to 6 inches from the top of the windshield Front-seat side windows: Up to 35% VLT Back-seat side windows: Up to 35% VLT Rear window: Up to 35% VLT Reflective tint is allowed up to 35% VLT, but only on the front-side and back-side windows. The Massachusetts window tint law has no requirements for what colors you tint your windows. Massachusetts drivers are also not required to have film certified by the manufacturer or identify their tint via a sticker—though having either can save you the hassle of explaining a questionable tint job if you’re pulled over. RECOMMENDED Massachusetts allows higher VLTs on the grounds of medical exemption. Applications are initially-determined and signed by a physician, then sent to the Massachusetts Medical Advisory Board—where exceptions are processed and decided. If accepted, those granted the exemption will be sent a large sticker that must be displayed on the driver side window (directly next to the driver) at all times. If you’re pulled over for violating Massachusetts Window Tint Law, you’ll be charged a $250 fine. Massachusetts won’t force you to get rid of your window tint on the spot—but by the third or any subsequent infraction, your driver's license will be revoked for 90 days. RECOMMENDED Tinting your vehicle’s windows can add an additional aesthetic, protect your vehicle from sun damage, and even block out harmful UV rays, but this benefit also comes with restrictions. These restrictions are put into place to keep you and other drivers safe while on the road. If you’re considering tinting your windows in Massachusetts, you must know the rules and regulations that the state requires. Tinting your windows without following the proper requirements can get you pulled over and land you a serious fine. Below, we will discuss what you need to know about Massachusetts window tint laws and how you can abide by them. Window Tinting in MassachusettsWindow tint reduces incoming light, glare, and can even improve fuel economy by reducing interior heat. By reducing harmful UV rays, you are also helping to keep your car’s interior in better shape. Some factories provide a base-level tint, but this is usually only provided on the rear windows. Massachusetts window tint laws help regulate this product to ensure your safety. Window tinting laws in Massachusetts were legislated in 1985 and continue to keep the citizens safe. The state of Massachusetts carefully regulates the VLT (visible light transmission) on motor vehicles’ windows. VLT monitors how much light can pass through the window tint. The darker the tint, the less light will pass through. Section 9D in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts describes in detail what to consider regarding windshields and windows obscured by non-transparent materials. Still, we will also touch on some of those topics below. Massachusetts Tint LawsIn Massachusetts, the laws concerning passenger vehicles are the same as those concerning multi-purpose vehicles. Those tinting laws are as follows:
Additional Guidelines for Massachusetts Tint LawsAside from the amount of VLT allowed on your vehicle, you will also want to take a few more laws into account when tinting your windows in Massachusetts:
RegulationsHere are some helpful tips to know when considering Massachusetts tint laws for your motor vehicle:
Medical ExemptionsThe Department of Transportation’s registry of motor vehicles in Massachusetts does issue medical exemptions for window tint. These exemptions can include additional tinting on the front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window of the vehicle. Am I Eligible?You may be eligible for a medical exemption from standard Massachusetts tint laws if you, as the owner/operator of the motor vehicle, have been diagnosed as photophobic or photosensitive by a physician. You must also prove that you are photosensitive/photophobic with a signed certification from a physician. If you think you may qualify, you can fill out the form below. Be sure to have your licensed physician sign the form before you submit it. How to Apply for a Tinted Glass Medical WaiverIf you meet the above criteria and are interested in applying for a medical waiver, you can apply here. These forms can only be issued to permanently photophobic people or those with other diseases in which they must avoid direct sunlight or high exposure to UV rays. Can You Get Pulled Over for Tint in Massachusetts?If you’re asking yourself, “Can you get pulled over for tint in Massachusetts?” the answer is yes. In addition to being pulled over, you could receive up to a $250 fine if you neglect to follow the State laws. If you receive three or more convictions, this could result in a 90-day driver’s license suspension. It is essential to know that Massachusetts window tint laws may change daily, and the rules and regulations can vary depending on the city or county you are in. It is wise to check with your local DMV for updated laws. Final ThoughtsSome people tint the windows in their cars for privacy and security reasons. Others use window tint to protect themselves from harmful ultra-violet (UV) rays from the sun. Some people like to accessorize their car with window tint to make it their own. Whatever your reason may be, be sure you are following the laws correctly. As long as your vehicle’s windows have no more than 35% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) on the front, side, and rear windows and your non-reflective tint is applied within the top 6 inches of the windshield; you should not be pulled over for breaking tint laws in Massachusetts. |