In North Carolina, legal tint is measured by VLT — the percentage of light the filmed glass lets through. The numbers below are the darkest tint the law allows at each window position, labeled VLT MAX: install film darker than the listed VLT and the vehicle is out of compliance. Figures are compiled from official North Carolina state sources; laws change, so confirm the current statute before you tint.
| Window | Darkest Legal (VLT MAX) | Reflectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Tint only along the top — may not extend more than 5 inches below the top of the windshield or below the AS-1 line, whichever measurement is longer. An untinted clear film that does not obstruct vision but reduces/eliminates UV may be applied to the full windshield. | |
| Front side windows | Total light transmission at least 35%; reflectance 20% or less | |
| Rear side windows (passenger cars) | Total light transmission at least 35%; reflectance 20% or less | |
| Rear window (passenger cars) | Total light transmission at least 35%; reflectance 20% or less | |
| Windows behind the driver — multipurpose vehicles (SUVs, pickups, minivans/vans on a truck chassis or with off-road features, ≤10 passengers) | Exempt from the 35% / 20% limits under § 20-127(c)(9) |
How to Read These Numbers
- Windshield: The windshield rule controls the strip at the top of the glass and how far film or a visor band may extend down. Most states allow a non-reflective strip above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front side windows: Front side windows — driver and front passenger — are the most tightly regulated and the ones checked first at a traffic stop or inspection.
- Rear side windows (passenger cars): Rear side windows are usually allowed darker than the fronts, and on SUVs, trucks and vans they are sometimes exempt from the passenger-car limit.
- Rear window (passenger cars): The rear window rule often interacts with side mirrors: darker rear glass typically requires dual outside mirrors.
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North Carolina Tint Law Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in North Carolina?
For front side windows, North Carolina allows tint down to Total light transmission at least 35%; reflectance 20% or less — the VLT MAX. Rear windows may allow darker film; check the table above for each position.
What happens if my tint is darker than North Carolina allows?
Over-dark tint can draw a citation and, in many states, a fix-it order requiring the film to be removed and the vehicle re-inspected. Laws also change — verify the current statute before tinting.