Are you planning to tint the windows of your car in Tennessee? Before you do, it's important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding window tinting. In Tennessee, there are specific limits on the darkness of window tint, and failure to comply can result in a traffic violation. In this article, we'll explore the cost of traffic violations in TN for window tint and what you need to know to avoid them.
What is Window Tinting?
Window tinting is the process of applying a thin film to the windows of a car to reduce the amount of visible light, UV rays, and heat that enters the vehicle. This can help keep the car cooler in hot weather and protect the interior from sun damage. However, there are laws that regulate how dark the tint can be.
What are the TN Laws on Window Tinting?
In Tennessee, the law states that the front windshield of a car must allow at least 70% of visible light to pass through. The front side window tint must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through. The back side and rear windows can have any level of tint darkness as long as the car has side mirrors that provide a view behind the vehicle.
What Happens if You Violate the TN Window Tinting Laws?
If you violate the window tinting laws in Tennessee, you can be pulled over by law enforcement officers and issued a citation. The cost of the citation varies depending on the severity of the violation and the county where it occurred.
First Offense
If you are cited for a first offense of violating the window tinting laws in Tennessee, you will be required to remove the tint and pay a fine. The fine can range from $50 to $150, depending on the county where the violation occurred.
Repeat Offenses
If you are cited for a repeat offense of violating the window tinting laws in Tennessee, the penalties become more severe. You will be required to remove the tint, and your vehicle may be impounded. The fine for repeat offenses can range from $200 to $500.
How to Avoid Violating the TN Window Tinting Laws?
To avoid violating the window tinting laws in Tennessee, you should make sure that you follow the regulations for the darkness of the tint. There are tools available, such as a tint meter, that can measure the amount of visible light that passes through the tint. You can also consult a professional window tinting service to ensure that your tint is compliant with the law.
Conclusion
Window tinting can be a great way to protect your car from the sun and make it more comfortable to drive. However, it's important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding window tinting in Tennessee to avoid costly traffic violations. By following the rules and consulting with professionals, you can enjoy the benefits of window tinting without the risk of getting pulled over and fined.
