Kane Dan
In the Bluegrass State, things can get a bit warm. It’s thus necessary to apply window tints to your vehicle as a means of keeping it cool for your passengers as well as yourself.
But how do you do this while staying in the confines of the law and avoiding tickets/violations?
This article will show you all you need to know about Kentucky window tinting laws so you can stay safe and comfortable in your vehicle.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Are You Allowed To Have Tinted Windshield And Windows In Kentucky?
Yes, you may have window tints and windshield in Kentucky, but you have to be sure you are within the limits of the law and what the state permits in terms of VLT. VLT refers to Visible Light Transmission and is the percentage of visible light that can come in through your windows.
For instance, suppose you have a window being referenced using a percentage. That is a VLT measurement. For instance, a 20% tint will permit 20% of the visible light in through your tint film.
What Is The Darkest Tint You Can Legally Get In KY?
8% is the legal limit, and that is only for back side windows and rear windows of vans and SUVs.
Is 20 Tint Illegal in KY?
Not exactly. For example, back side windows and rear windows have to have a VLT of 18%. As a result, you may have 20% tints there. But, front side windows have to let in 35% of light (so you couldn’t put those tints on that window).
For SUVs and work vans (MPVs) you can go even darker, as the rear windows and back side windows only need to be 8% VLT.
It should also be noted that no colors of tints are strictly banned for the state of Kentucky. You should also know that manufacturers of window tinting film are required to certify film being sold within the state.
When you go to get your tints applied, be sure to ask your dealer if they are utilizing certified tint film.
Can You Get Pulled Over For Tinted Windows In Kentucky?
Yes, you absolutely can be pulled over if law enforcement feels that your tints are too dark.
It seems to be less of a problem in Kentucky, presumably due to the state permitting rather dark tints as compared to other states, but as always you are better off remaining in the legal limits to avoid any trouble.
How Much Is A Tint Ticket In KY?
I do not have an exact number on what the cost of a tint ticket will run you in Kentucky, but I don’t think it will be cheap.
One story from 2015 noted a Kentucky woman was fined $140 as she shopped in neighboring Tennessee, and I am certain by now that these figures have changed. As a result, it is best to just stay within the legal limits for tints so you don’t have to pay these hefty fines.
Window Tint Darkness In Kentucky
Here I have provided information on window tint darkness for a few different vehicles commonly found on the roads of Kentucky.
Passenger vehicles are the everyday family cars we see around, such as crossover SUVs, hatchbacks, convertibles, sedans, and coupes, plus minivans.
On the other hand, multi-purpose vehicles refer to full-size SUVs, pickup trucks, and utility vans that are mostly used for hauling and work.
For Passenger Vehicle
- Windshield: Unreflective tint is permitted above the AS-1 line of the manufacturer
- Front Side Windows: Must permit greater than 35% of light to enter
- Back Side Windows: Must permit more than 18% of light to enter
- Rear Window: Must permit more than 18% of light to enter
For MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)
- Windshield: Unreflective tint is permitted above the AS-1 line of the manufacturer
- Front Side Windows: Must permit greater than 35% of light to enter
- Back Side Windows: Must permit more than 8% of light to enter
- Rear Window: Must permit more than 8% of light to enter
Window Tint Reflection In Kentucky
Reflective window tint is stylish, looks cool, and provides passengers and drivers alike with privacy and comfort.
They are similar to a two-way mirror: You can see out of them, but the persons standing outside of your vehicle can only see their reflection when they look into your tints. It’s very useful if you live in a place where things tend to get warm, as is the case with the state of Kentucky.
The good news is that you are permitted to have a certain level of reflection with vehicle window tints, so listen up!
For Passenger Vehicle
- Front Side Windows: Cannot be greater than 25% reflective
- Back Side Windows: Cannot be greater than 25% reflective
For MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle)
- Front Side Windows: Cannot be greater than 25% reflective
- Back Side Windows: Cannot be greater than 25% reflective
Indeed, reflective tints look good. However, drivers have to be mindful of using these tints, as the sunlight can reflect off them and cause other drivers discomfort.
How Do You Get A Medical Exemption For Window Tint In Kentucky?
Unfortunately, the state of Kentucky does not permit medical exemptions when it comes to window tints.
Those choosing to use tints in the state of Kentucky must place a sticker on the doorjamb on the driver’s side denoting that they are legal, whether you have a medical condition or not.
Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Kentucky window tinting laws. With the average summer temperature in the Bluegrass state being 87 degrees in the summer months, it is not a surprise that you are on the lookout for window tints.
Thankfully, the state is lenient compared to others when it comes to this aftermarket accessory, so feel free to apply them at a certified shop that promises to stay within the state limits for tints.
Doing so will get you the privacy and comfort you need while keeping law enforcement and other drivers on the road safe.
