Overview of Missouri Window Tinting Laws
Missouri window tint laws state that cars must have at least 35% visible light transmission on the front windshield. The back window and rear windows must have at least 35% VLT, but if the car has three back windows, any color of tint can be applied to those three. For SUVs and vans, any color of tint is permissible for all windows. Tinted mirrors with a reflectivity no more than 20% are allowed, which means the mirrors can reflect some light so that more can be seen behind the vehicle.
The Missouri Department of Revenue (Motor Vehicle Inspection & Maintenance) has a list of vehicle equipment requirements on its website, where it’s stated that window tinting can cause a car to fail state safety inspection. This is presumably because window tint is not allowed if it restricts or obscures the driver’s view . Obscured or distorted vision through tinted windows can lead to accidents. Windshields can be tinted, but only the top 5 inches of glass can be tinted with a stripe that is no more than 50% VLT.
To keep up with Missouri window tint laws when traveling with tinted windows, it’s a smart idea to carry a letter from the manufacturer of the tinting film that states the windshield tint does not exceed 5 inches or 35%. On the front side windows only, the owner can have a letter from the manufacturer that states the tint is 35% or that is a factory tint. If you have the latter, make sure you get a letter indicating the tint on the factory windows is 35% VLT, as opposed to being an equal amount to the factory tint.
The Significance of Visible Light Transmission (VLT)
There is another set of numbers that you will frequently hear about in the legal window tinting discussion known as the visible light transmission or VLT. The VLT of any window film is an important consideration in relation to the vehicle, driver and passenger safety. When driving, especially at night, most people are not comfortable driving when they feel like they cannot see well or that others cannot see them well. For this reason, the VLT is something every driver should be aware of.
VLT is a standard used to indicate how much light passes through a window film layer, as a film layer is always a secondary layer. In general, the lower the VLT the less light can pass through the window film layer. The VLT is calculated by dividing the amount of total visible light that is transmitted by the window film layer by the total visible light that enters the window in the absence of the window film layer. For example, a VLT of 5% means that only 5% of the light entering through the window may transmit through the window film layer and a VLT of 70% means that the film layer allows 70% of the light through.
In Missouri, tinted windows are generally considered illegal if they obstruct more than 35% of the light that would usually come through the glass. With tinted windows, the phrase "light obscuration" is used to describe how tinted windows are not transparent. However, that level and the number that is given for your VLT are quite different. The VLT is regulated based on the "luminous transmittance" which is calculated by dividing "the luminous flux transmitted by a portion of the optical system (window) by the luminous flux falling on the same portion of the optical system" and multiplying that sum by 100 (RSMo § 307.172). The end result is the VLT which is recorded as a percentage. As such, the VLT cannot be more than 35%.
However, as we have already mentioned, just because the window is completely transparent, does not mean that the window will pass its inspections. Truthfully, at a depth of approximately twelve (12) inches, many people can no longer tell the difference between a tinted window and a non-tinted window or, as the eye doctor often tells you, between "fifty" [50] and "seventy" [70] as tests for corrective eye sight. When viewing at that distance of twelve (12) inches, however, most tinted and non-tinted windows will appear to be equally as transparent to the observer. Conversely, when viewing through the window from the outside, a heavy tint will usually appear to be about as obscured as what one would expect for rooms with curtains keeping the bright sun out, but it is not so obscure that one cannot see the inside of the vehicle.
In Missouri, tinted windows are generally considered illegal if they obstruct more than 35% of the light that would usually come through the glass.
Exemptions and Special Circumstances
Exemptions and special considerations for Missouri’s window tint law vary on different levels, including what is permitted by law. Certain medical exemptions are also permitted.
Medical exemptions are not available in Missouri except when it comes to windshield reflective tint. Missouri law has no specific statute allowing exemptions for medical conditions, such as skin disorders, but nearby state Illinois does have such a provision. When it comes to windshield reflective tint, however, Missouri is much more like Illinois. Permitted on the windshield is a non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line or the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. The AS-1 line is the line that goes across the windshield and is marked by the manufacturer of the tint, typically with a colored dot. It usually extends from the driver’s side to the front passenger’s side. Reflective tint can only be a maximum of 35 percent. Reflective tint on front windows is prohibited. The 35 percent rule is similar to the tint laws in neighboring Illinois and Iowa. Another exemption is when trying to protect older vehicles. In Missouri, the tint laws prohibit reflecting tint. Under the law, tinted windows cannot be reflective. Some people may believe that they can add reflective tint to the rear windows while complying with state law. That would be incorrect because reflective tint is illegal on all windows aside from the windshield. An exception to the reflective tint law is if the vehicle in question was created before 1985, when tinted windows were typically common on older vehicles. If you decide to use a reflective tint on the windows of your car or truck, you should be aware that it could be harder to see out of the windshield.
Penalties for Illegal Window Tint
In Missouri, failing to comply with the car window tinting laws can lead to some rather unpleasant repercussions. Unfortunately, the enforcement of the law comes in the form of fines and citations. In other words, the police will pull you over for an improperly tinted window and potentially issue a ticket that carries a financial penalty.
The penalty for a first-time violation of Missouri’s window tint law generally includes a fine up to $100. However, if you are stopped a second time, the issue could become more costly. A second offense may lead to a fine up to $200. In addition to the fine amounts, you will be required to repair the improperly tinted window. Failure to do so could lead to further fines and hassle when dealing with law enforcement in the future.
In most cases, the window tint law is enforced during a traffic stop. For example, if you are pulled over for speeding and the officer notices that your window tint is too dark , it’s very likely that that you will receive a citation. The penalty issued will typically depend upon the discretion of the officer.
It’s worth noting that Missouri has a system in place by which individuals who receive a citation for violating the law can avoid a fine. Pursuant to Missouri Statute § 304.172.5, anyone who is cited for excessive window tint (or a violation of any law related to window tint) can avoid a fine while also keeping the citation off their driving record by obtaining a valid physician’s certificate, medical waiver or manufacturer’s statement. The purpose of this provision is so that individuals who need darker tint for medical reasons, such as to block the sun from their eyes, do not end up grousing about the law.
In summary, it’s important to understand that Missouri has specific laws regarding window tinting and these laws must be followed at all times, regardless of the circumstances. When it comes to invisible tint or too-dark tint, ignorance of the law will not prevent a traffic citation.
Factors When Selecting a Legal Tint Shop in Missouri
When searching for a legal window tinting service in Missouri, there are several key factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s essential to find a company that has specific experience with Missouri’s legal tinting requirements. Most window tinting services will have no problem letting you know whether or not they understand the state laws and regulations. Another important tip is to ensure that they use only high-quality window films. Many window film manufacturers offer their own certifications and mesh that information with tinting services. These certifications also provide assurances about warranties. If a tinting company has certification, that means that their work meets or exceeds industry standards set fourth by the window film manufacturer and has been officially authorized. And don’t forget to verify any warranties they offer. A warranty on their window films or products is important. If a company doesn’t carry a warranty on its work, you should keep looking.
Advantages of Legal Window Tint
Complying with legal window tinting requirements in Missouri offers a number of significant benefits. First and foremost, legal tint makes your vehicle safer by increasing visibility for both you and other drivers on the road. With the appropriate amount of tint, glare from the sun is drastically reduced, making it easier to see clearly while driving during all hours of the day. Additionally, having legal window tint improves your comfort by blocking out the vast majority of harmful UV rays that can be damaging to both your health and your vehicle’s interior.
Window tint works to regulate the temperature of your vehicle by preventing the sun from heating one side of the glass more than the other. This not only helps keep you comfortable, but also cuts down on energy costs by reducing the need for excessive air conditioning when it’s warm outside. It also helps prolong the lifespan of your vehicle’s upholstery and dashboard by reducing cracking and sun damage .
Having legal tint on your windows can also drastically improve your vehicle’s aesthetic capabilities. While many people swear by the look of tinted windows, the fact is that having legal tint combined with a simple graphic, such as a NASCAR stripe or a dot gradient, can take your vehicle’s appearance to the next level. In addition, window tint adds a layer of privacy to your daily driving experience that allows you to go about your business without the eyes of outside observers on your whereabouts.
Finally, having window tint installed on your vehicle increases its overall resale value by making it more attractive to potential buyers. Those who prioritize a cool, sleek appearance will be particularly attracted to vehicles with window tint, while those who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with long-term UV exposure may also feel more motivated to purchase a vehicle with window tint already installed.