Is 20 Tint Legal In Md: What You Need To Know

Window tints have become increasingly popular among car owners for various reasons. It can provide privacy, reduce heat, and glare, and even enhance the look of the car. However, the percentage of tint allowed varies from state to state, and it's essential to know the rules before getting your car windows tinted. Maryland is one state with strict laws regarding window tints. In this article, we'll be answering the question, "Is 20 tint legal in MD?" and other related inquiries.

What is Tint?

Before diving into the legalities, let's define what tint is. Tint is a thin, transparent film applied to windows to reduce the amount of light that passes through. It's made of polyester and comes in various shades, measured in percentages. The higher the percentage, the darker the tint.

What is the Legal Tint Percentage in Maryland?

According to Maryland law, the legal limit for tinting the front and rear side windows is 35%. This means that the tint should allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through. Meanwhile, the back window can have a darker tint, as long as it allows at least 35% of visible light to pass through.

Why is There a Limit to Tinting?

The main reason for the tinting limit is safety. Dark tints can impair a driver's vision, especially at night, and cause accidents. Moreover, law enforcement needs to be able to see inside the car to ensure compliance with traffic laws and to identify suspects during traffic stops.

Is 20 Tint Legal in MD?

No, 20 tint is not legal in Maryland. As mentioned earlier, the legal limit for side windows is 35%. Any tint darker than that is considered illegal and can result in fines and even having to remove the tinted film.

What are the Consequences of Having Illegal Tint?

If you're caught driving with illegal tint in Maryland, you can face the following consequences:

• A fine of up to $500
• Having to remove the tinted film
• Getting points on your driving record

What are the Exceptions to the Tinting Law?

There are a few exceptions to the tinting law in Maryland. These include:

• Tints used for medical reasons: If a person has a medical condition that requires them to limit their exposure to sunlight, they can apply for a medical exemption. However, they still need to follow the guidelines set by the state and can only apply a tint of up to 35%.
• Tints used for law enforcement vehicles: Police cars and other law enforcement vehicles can have darker tints to protect officers and suspects during transport.
• Tints used for historic or vintage cars: If a car is classified as historic or vintage, it can have tints of any darkness.

How is Tint Darkness Measured?

Tint darkness is measured using a device called a photometer, which measures the percentage of visible light that can pass through the tinted window. It's essential to get the tint measured before installing it to ensure compliance with state laws.

How to Choose the Right Tint Percentage?

Choosing the right tint percentage depends on your preferences and needs. If you want to reduce heat and glare, a tint of around 20% can suffice. However, keep in mind that it's not legal in Maryland. If you want to stay within the legal limits, a tint of around 35% can still provide some benefits while keeping you compliant with state laws.

Conclusion

In summary, 20 tint is not legal in Maryland. The state law requires the front and rear side windows to have a tint of no darker than 35%. Any tint darker than that is considered illegal and can result in fines and having to remove the tinted film. It's essential to follow state laws to avoid consequences and ensure safety on the road.