Tinted windows can make your car look great and keep it cooler in the summer. But in Utah, there are specific laws about how dark your window tint can be. If you don’t follow these laws, you could get pulled over or fined.
This article will help you understand Utah’s window tint laws and what you need to know to stay legal. Knowing these rules can save you from costly penalties and help avoid car accidents.
What Is Window Tint?
Window tint is a thin, dark film added to car windows. It helps block sunlight, reduce glare, and give you more privacy. It can also help protect the inside of your car from sun damage.
But if your windows are too dark, police officers may be unable to see inside, which can be dangerous for them and others on the road. This is why tint laws are enforced—they balance comfort and appearance with safety for all.
Why Does Utah Regulate Window Tint?
Utah, like many other states, has laws about window tint to make driving safer. Officers need to see inside a car for traffic stops.
Other drivers also need to see your car’s lights and signals clearly. These rules help prevent accidents and keep people safe. Clear visibility also helps first responders assess situations quickly in emergencies.
Legal Tint Limits in Utah
Utah’s tint laws are different depending on which window you’re tinting. The law measures tint using something called Visible Light Transmission (VLT).
This is the percentage of light that can pass through your window. The lower the VLT, the darker the tint. In Utah, front-side windows must allow at least 43% of light to enter, while rear-side and back windows can be darker.
Reflective and Colored Tints
In Utah, reflective or mirrored tints are not allowed. These types of tints can bounce too much light and be dangerous for other drivers. Also, red and amber (orange) colored tints are illegal in Utah. Always choose a tint that is legal in both color and reflection. Tint shops in Utah are familiar with these rules and can help you pick compliant products.
Medical Exceptions
Some people have health conditions that make them sensitive to sunlight. If you have a medical reason to need darker window tint, Utah allows exceptions. This medical letter must be kept in the car and shown if a police officer asks for it.
Even with a waiver, your tint must not block all visibility for safety reasons. Your doctor must clearly state the medical need, and you may need to renew the exception periodically.
Penalties for Illegal Tint
If your window tint is too dark or doesn’t follow the law, you could get:
- A traffic ticket or citation.
- A fine that can vary depending on where you are in Utah.
- A requirement to remove or replace the illegal tint.
Having illegal tint can also affect your car’s inspection. In Utah, cars must pass a safety inspection in some counties. Tint that is too dark might cause your car to fail this inspection. Failing to fix illegal tint can also lead to repeat citations or make it harder to sell your vehicle.
Tips for Staying Legal
Here are a few easy ways to make sure your window tint is legal in Utah:
- Ask for the VLT rating before getting your windows tinted.
- Keep your receipt or certificate from the tint shop in your glove box.
- If you buy a used car, check the window tint to make sure it meets Utah law.
- Always use a professional installer who knows Utah’s tint rules.
Staying within the law can save you time, money, and frustration.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyers at Parker & McConkie Today
For more information, please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have 5 convenient locations in Utah, including Midvale, Salt Lake City, Ogden & Provo, UT. Clients can also visit our offices in Idaho Falls, ID & Rock Springs, WY.
We proudly serve Weber County, Utah County, Salt Lake County in Utah, Bonneville County in Idaho, Sweetwater County in Wyoming, and their surrounding areas:
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City Office
466 S. 500 E., Suite 100,
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
(801) 851-1202
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Midvale Office
7090 Union Park Ave, #160,
Midvale, UT 84047
(801) 845-0440
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Ogden Office
2510 S Washington Blvd, Suite 160,
Ogden, UT 84401
(385) 402-8187
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Provo Office
37 E Center St, Suite 300,
Provo, UT 84606
(801) 876-4107
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Rock Springs Office
531 N Front St,
Rock Springs, WY 82901
(307) 205-7400
Hours: 24/7
Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers – Idaho Falls Office
2235 East 25th St. Suite #280,
Idaho Falls, ID 83404
(208) 418-0633
Hours: 24/7
