Ohio Tint Laws 2019: Understanding The Rules And Regulations
When it comes to tinting your car windows in Ohio, there are certain laws and regulations that you need to follow. These laws specify how much tinting is allowed on different windows of your car, and failing to comply with these rules can result in fines and other penalties.
What are Ohio Tint Laws?
Ohio tint laws are regulations that determine how much tinting is allowed on the windows of a car. These laws are in place to ensure that drivers can see clearly while driving, and to prevent accidents caused by reduced visibility. The Ohio tint laws specify the maximum allowable levels of tint for different windows of a car, including the front, back, and side windows.
Why are Tint Laws Important?
Tint laws are important for several reasons. First and foremost, they help to ensure that drivers can see clearly while driving. Tinted windows can reduce visibility, especially in low light conditions or at night. By limiting the amount of tint that is allowed on car windows, Ohio tint laws help to prevent accidents caused by reduced visibility.
Secondly, tint laws help to maintain the privacy of drivers and passengers. Tinted windows can provide an extra layer of privacy, which can be especially important for people who are transporting valuable items or who want to avoid being seen by others. By allowing a certain level of tinting, Ohio tint laws help to maintain this privacy while still ensuring that drivers can see clearly.
What are the Ohio Tint Laws in 2019?
The Ohio tint laws in 2019 specify the maximum allowable levels of tint for different windows of a car. Here is an overview of these laws:
Front Windshield
The front windshield of a car must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through. This means that only a very light tint is allowed on the front windshield. The top 5 inches of the front windshield can be tinted to any darkness, but this tinting must not extend below the AS-1 line, which is a marking on the windshield that indicates the maximum allowable tinting.
Front Side Windows
The front side windows of a car must allow at least 50% of outside light to pass through. This means that a moderate level of tinting is allowed on these windows, but they cannot be fully darkened. The tinting must not extend below the AS-1 line on the windshield, and the tinting on these windows must not extend behind the driver's seat.
Back Side Windows
The back side windows of a car can be tinted to any darkness, as long as the car has side mirrors that provide a view behind the vehicle. This means that you can have a very dark tint on these windows if you wish, but you must ensure that you have side mirrors that allow you to see behind you.
Rear Window
The rear window of a car can also be tinted to any darkness, as long as the car has side mirrors that provide a view behind the vehicle. This means that you can have a very dark tint on the rear window if you wish, but you must ensure that you have side mirrors that allow you to see behind you.
What are the Penalties for Violating Ohio Tint Laws?
If you violate Ohio tint laws, you could face penalties including fines and even having your car impounded. The penalty for a first-time offense is a fine of up to $150, while subsequent offenses can result in fines of up to $300. In addition, a police officer can require you to remove the tinting from your windows on the spot, or they can impound your car until you do so.
How to Ensure You are Complying with Ohio Tint Laws
If you want to ensure that you are complying with Ohio tint laws, there are a few things you can do. First, you can check the tint level of your windows using a special tool called a photometer. This tool measures the amount of light that passes through your windows, and can help you determine whether your tinting is within the legal limits.
Secondly, you can have your windows tinted by a professional who is familiar with Ohio tint laws. A professional tinting company will be able to ensure that your windows are tinted to the legal limits, and can provide you with documentation to prove that your tinting is legal.
Conclusion
Ohio tint laws are in place to ensure that drivers can see clearly while driving, and to maintain the privacy of drivers and passengers. By understanding these laws and complying with them, you can avoid fines and other penalties, and can ensure that your car is safe and legal to drive.
Remember that the maximum allowable levels of tint differ for different windows of your car, so it's important to check the laws carefully before tinting your windows. If you have any doubts or questions about Ohio tint laws, consult a professional tinting company or a legal expert.
FAQs
Can I have a dark tint on my front side windows?
No, Ohio tint laws specify that the front side windows of a car must allow at least 50% of outside light to pass through. This means that you cannot have a fully darkened tint on these windows.
Can I have a dark tint on my back side windows?
Yes, Ohio tint laws allow you to have a very dark tint on the back side windows of your car, as long as you have side mirrors that provide a view behind the vehicle.
What happens if I violate Ohio tint laws?
If you violate Ohio tint laws, you could face penalties including fines and even having your car impounded. The penalty for a first-time offense is a fine of up to $150, while subsequent offenses can result in fines of up to $300. In addition, a police officer can require you to remove the tinting from your windows on the spot, or they can impound your car until you do so.
Can I have a tinted visor on my front windshield?
No, Ohio tint laws do not allow for tinted visors on the front windshield of a car.
Can I have a tinted strip at the top of my front windshield?
Yes, Ohio tint laws allow for a tinted strip at the top of the front windshield, as long as it does not extend below the AS-1 line on the windshield.