Tinting windows offers several benefits to vehicle owners, and every state in the country has its own special laws. Therefore, it is wise to know them in detail, which helps overcome legal issues to a greater extent. South Carolina, also known as the Palmetto State, follows different laws regarding window tinting in the US. Auto window tint laws SC involve high restrictions, and violating laws might lead to hefty fines and even a jail sentence. It is important for consumers to stay informed about the laws before choosing window tinting for their vehicles.
Auto window tint laws SC are applicable to cars, vans, and trucks, and mainly recommend the use of non-reflective films. However, they undergo frequent changes that require proper research. The Palmetto State has strict window tint laws, and many vehicle owners are not properly aware of them. The regulations might vary depending on the type of vehicle and windows in South Carolina.
The State Transport Police or South Carolina Highway Patrol police will measure the amount of light entering through the windows to check whether a vehicle owner is following the rules and regulations. By knowing tint laws in SC, vehicle owners can prevent disputes and legal issues.
Understanding window tint laws in SC
South Carolina was one of the earliest states to enact window tint laws in 1992. This means that they were created long ago, and vehicle owners should check with the local authorities for the latest window tint laws in SC to minimize unwanted problems.
The amount of window tint in South Carolina is measured by the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. It is a crucial factor that signifies the transparency of window film products used on a vehicle’s windows. The percentage represents the amount of visible light that can pass through the window’s factory film and added film.
Here’s what South Carolina tint laws say about the window tinting VLT percentage.
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | Must have more than 27% of light in. |
| Back Side Windows | Must have more than 27% of light in. |
| Back Side Windows (Multipurpose Vehicles) | Any VLT% is allowed |
| Rear window | Must have more than a total of 27% light in. Transmission through glass. |
What are the other South Carolina tint window laws and regulations?
Apart from the VLT percentage, vehicle owners should know what the other South Carolina window tint laws and regulations are.
Here are some other things vehicle owners should keep in mind.
- Dual mirrors are necessary for back window tinting.
- A sticker is necessary to identify legal tinting between the film and the glass on each tinted window.
- Film manufacturers should certify the film they sell in the state, and vehicle owners should verify whether a dealer is using a certified film.
- Yellow, amber, or red colors are not allowed for window tinting.
- Reflective or metallic films are also not allowed for window tinting.
- Drivers who use sunscreen devices must display a certificate of compliance in each window stating the tint percentage, the installation date, and the installer’s name.
SC window tint medical exemption—medical window tint SC standards to follow
Medical exemptions allow vehicle owners to choose special window tint treatments in South Carolina. The current SC window tint medical exemption laws are applicable to those with specific medical needs, such as skin disorders or light sensitivity.
Vehicle owners should ensure that they meet the medical window tint SC standards to get more protection.
- A vehicle’s windows are not more reflective than standard windows.
- Vehicle owners should always carry a medical certificate obtained from a registered medical doctor proving the necessity for darker tint levels.
- The certificate requires renewal every two years.
Understanding the legal window tint percentage in South Carolina
The legal window tint percentage for vehicles in South Carolina is mainly based on visible light transmission (VLT) percentage. A vehicle should let in at least 27% of light, which is essential for driver visibility and safety. Keeping a VLT of 27% or more ensures vehicle owners a good view of the environment.
What is the legal tint in South Carolina?
Vehicle owners should know what is the legal tint in South Carolina in detail. The legal tint limit in South Carolina sets specific VLT requirements for vehicles, which might differ based on the vehicle type and other factors.
What is the legal tint limit in South Carolina for passenger vehicles?
The legal tint in SC for passenger vehicles is entirely different compared to multipurpose vehicles. They are applicable to sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks, enabling vehicle owners to minimize unwanted problems. What is the legal tint limit in South Carolina for passenger vehicles?
Here is the legal tint limit allowed for them.
- Front windshield: A non-reflective unit is permitted on the top 6 inches of the windshield
- Front seat side windows: Tint darkness up to 27% VLT
- Back seat side windows: Require at least 27% tint darkness or lighter
- Rear side windows: At least 27% VLT is required for tinting
What is the legal tint in SC for multipurpose vehicles?
Knowing the legal tint in SC for multipurpose vehicles such as vans, trucks, and SUVs will help make informed decisions.
Here is the legal limit in SC allowed for multipurpose vehicles.
- Front windshield: A non-reflective unit is permitted on the top 6 inches of the windshield
- Front seat side windows: Tint darkness is allowed up to 27%
- Back seat side windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in
- Rear window: Must permit more than 27% of light in
SC code of laws window tint
It is imperative to know SC code of laws window tint, from different sources that help ensure high protection from UV rays. Moreover, car owners can ensure a safe journey on the roads with more efficiency.
The windshield is one of the most important parts of a car because it offers safety to drivers. On the other hand, tinting a windshield should meet certain parameters and comply with the laws.
SC law allows car owners to install non-reflective units above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, which is usually marked on the windshield. It indicates the area where car owners can tint.
However, the windshield can’t have any tint if the AS-1 line is not visible. The front-side windows in cars should let in at least a VLT of 27%, which is essential for the driver’s safety and visibility. At the same time, SC laws do not have any specific restrictions for the VLT of backside windows and rear window tinting.
Why do South Carolina window tinting laws set a VLT limit?
Passenger and multipurpose vehicle owners understand why South Carolina window tinting laws set VLT limits with attention.
Here are some reasons the window testing laws in SC set the VLT limit.
1. To ensure road safety
Dark windows in vehicles can reduce outward visibility during nighttime driving or stormy weather. The 27% VLT limit ensures that drivers can access the road clearly under all conditions.
2. Officer safety and situational awareness
Police officers should check vehicles to assess potential threats such as rash driving, drinking and driving, etc. That’s why the front windows have stricter limits than the rear.
Is 5 percent tint legal in South Carolina?
Many vehicle owners ask the question, “Is 5 percent tint legal in South Carolina for window tinting?” It depends on the type of vehicle and which windows they are tinting. A 5% tint means that only a mere 5% of visible light can pass through, which results in a dark tint.
South Carolina tint laws don’t permit 5% tint in passenger vehicles except at the top of the windshield. On the other hand, multipurpose vehicles may have 5% or less on their back and side windows.
What are the penalties for violating the SC code of laws on window tint?
Vehicle owners should know the penalties for violating the SC code of laws on window tint that let them drive a vehicle with more care. The first fine for breaking the law for drivers could result in a $200 fine. However, the penalty for multiple violations can increase to $500 or even 30 days of imprisonment for a misdemeanor. The state doesn’t take these offenses lightly, and the maximum fine can go up to $1000.
How does law enforcement measure tint percentage in South Carolina?
Police in South Carolina measure the tint percentage of vehicles with well-equipped tint meters that will determine the VLT. The device clamps onto the window and emits light to measure actual VLT, instantly determining whether the tint is legal. If the tint appears too dark, then law enforcement authorities will look for window stickers indicating legal installations.
How to ensure that a window tint is legal in South Carolina?
Vehicle owners can learn how to ensure that a window tint is legal in South Carolina to minimize risks. They should follow the window tint laws SC properly to avoid getting a ticket and stay safe while driving.
Here are some additional steps to make window tint legal in the state of South Carolina.
- Finding a reputable tint shop or installer: A vehicle owner should consider finding a reputable tint shop that knows the tint laws well.
- Picking a tint film with a VLT: A tint shop should use the tint meter device to measure the VLT of a vehicle’s window that meets the law requirements.
- Getting a certificate after installation: A tint shop should provide a certificate to vehicle owners with a compliance sticker after completing the installation process.
- Keeping the certificate while driving: Vehicle owners should keep the window tint certificate while driving as evidence of compliance.
How could ignoring the SC code of laws on window tint affect the insurance?
Ignoring the SC code of laws, window tint could affect the insurance claim if the tint is not legal. Non-compliant tint could complicate an insurance claim if it contributes to visibility-related accidents. This means vehicle owners have to pay the cost for repairs and any medical bills. Furthermore, failure to comply with the laws can result in increased insurance premiums.
What are the common misconceptions about window tint in South Carolina?
- Window tint can affect visibility at night, making it dangerous for drivers to drive.
- Vehicle window tint is illegal in South Carolina.
- Applying window film can cause damage to a vehicle’s windows.
- Tinting can void a vehicle’s warranty.
- All window films are the same
- Maintaining window tint is a difficult process for vehicle owners
How to choose a window tint that complements a vehicle’s aesthetic in SC?
1. Knowing legal restrictions
Vehicle owners should check the window tint laws in SC to know the restrictions followed in the state.
2. Tint darkness
Tint darkness plays a crucial role in window tint, and vehicle owners should determine the same for ensuring more privacy and safety.
3. Selecting a tint color that matches a vehicle’s aesthetic
A vehicle owner should select a tint color that matches a passenger vehicle or multipurpose vehicle aesthetic.
4. Interior considerations
It is wise for vehicle owners to focus more on interior considerations to create a cohesive look.
5. Style preferences
Vehicle owners should give more importance to style preferences with a professional tint company or installer.
When should vehicle owners approach an attorney for window tinting in SC?
Vehicle owners who want to obtain a medical exemption for window tint can approach a professional attorney to handle complex issues. An expert attorney will guide them to transform their window tint from noncompliant to legally approved. Moreover, an attorney will help reduce fines and other legal issues, including jail sentences.
Conclusion
Vehicle owners should follow the window tint laws in SC to stay safe and avoid legal problems effectively. They should stick to the legal VLT limits, avoid banned colors, and keep the paperwork in order. Knowing medical exemptions enables vehicle owners to comply with the laws in South Carolina.
Violating window tint laws in SC can lead to heavy fines and other legal problems. Hence, it is important to grasp them with experts, including attorneys, to minimize complications. Getting legal guidance helps vehicle owners overcome threats from law enforcement authorities. It even provides ways to understand the procedures involved in South Carolina window tint.
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Tint Laws SC
1. What’s the darkest legal tint in South Carolina?
Ans: The darkest legal tint for most vehicles is 27% VLT, meaning at least 27% of light must pass through the window.
2. Is 5% tint legal in South Carolina?
Ans: For passenger vehicles, 5% tint is not legal on side or rear windows.
For certain multipurpose vehicles (SUVs, trucks, vans), a darker tint may be allowed on rear windows, but front side windows must still meet the 27% VLT requirement.
3. Can I tint my entire windshield in South Carolina?
Ans: No. Under South Carolina Code of Laws Section 56-5-5015, only non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line (top portion of windshield) is permitted.
4. Does illegal window tint affect car insurance in SC?
Ans: It can potentially complicate a claim if an illegal tint contributes to visibility issues during an accident. Coverage decisions depend on policy terms and circumstances.
5. Can you get a medical exemption for a darker tint in SC?
Ans: Yes. Drivers with qualifying medical conditions (such as light sensitivity or skin disorders) can apply for a medical exemption with proper documentation from a licensed physician.
6. Are reflective or mirror tints legal in South Carolina?
Ans: No. Reflective, metallic, red, amber, and yellow-tinted films are prohibited in South Carolina.
