Yes, you can tint your car windows in North Dakota, but you must follow the state’s specific rules. Understanding the car window tint laws in North Dakota is key to avoiding fines and staying legal on the road.
These rules tell you how dark you can go and how much light must get through. They also cover which windows you can tint and what paperwork you need. It’s not as hard as it sounds once you break it down.
I’ve looked into this for my own vehicles. The laws are pretty clear if you know where to look.
Let’s walk through everything step by step. You’ll know exactly what to ask for at the tint shop.
What Are the Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota?
First, let’s talk about the main rule. It’s all about Visible Light Transmission, or VLT.
VLT is the amount of light that gets through your window film and glass together. A lower VLT number means a darker tint. A higher number means a lighter tint.
For sedans, the car window tint laws in North Dakota say the front side windows must let in more than 50% of light. So, you can’t use a very dark film there.
The back side windows and the rear window on a sedan can be much darker. They can have a VLT of 20% or less, which is quite dark.
For SUVs, vans, and trucks, the rules are different. The front side windows still need over 50% VLT.
But the back side windows and rear window on these vehicles can be as dark as you want. You can even use limo tint if you like.
Always check the current rules with the North Dakota Department of Transportation. They have the official word.
How Do the Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota Work for Windshields?
You cannot put any tint on the main part of your windshield. That big front glass must stay clear.
However, the car window tint laws in North Dakota do allow a strip at the top. This is called an AS-1 line.
This strip can be non-reflective tint. It can go down only as far as the manufacturer’s mark on the glass, or about five inches.
This top strip helps a lot with sun glare. It blocks the bright sun from your eyes while you drive.
Some people think they can tint the whole windshield lightly. That is not legal in North Dakota.
Stick to the top strip rule. It keeps you safe and keeps you from getting a ticket.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) notes that clear windshields are vital for safe driving, especially at night.
Reflectivity and Other Rules in the Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota
It’s not just about darkness. The shine or reflectivity of your tint matters too.
The car window tint laws in North Dakota say your tint cannot be too shiny. Reflective or mirror tints are not allowed.
Why does this matter? A super shiny tint can glare into other drivers’ eyes. This can be dangerous and cause accidents.
Your tint must also not be red, yellow, or amber in color. These colors can be confused with emergency vehicle lights.
The film must be applied smoothly. You can’t have any bubbles, wrinkles, or peeling edges.
If you have dual side mirrors, the rules for your rear window are a bit different. But it’s best to keep your rear view clear.
Using a professional installer helps. They know these extra rules and will make sure your tint is applied right.
Why You Need a Medical Exemption for Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota
Some people need darker tint for health reasons. The state understands this and allows exemptions.
You can get a medical waiver for the car window tint laws in North Dakota. This lets you have darker tint than normally allowed.
A licensed doctor must say you have a condition that needs it. Things like lupus or severe light sensitivity can qualify.
You must fill out a specific form. You send this form to the North Dakota Department of Transportation.
If approved, you will get a certificate. You must keep this certificate in your vehicle at all times.
An exemption only applies to the person with the condition. It does not let you tint every car in your family super dark.
The American Academy of Dermatology discusses how certain skin conditions require strict sun protection, which can include window tint.
How to Make Sure Your Tint Follows Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota
Getting it right starts at the shop. Choose a reputable installer who knows the local laws.
Tell them you want to follow the exact car window tint laws in North Dakota. A good shop will know the VLT percentages by heart.
Ask for a receipt or work order. It should list the brand and VLT percentage of the film they used.
After installation, they might give you a small sticker. This sticker often goes on the edge of a tinted window.
This sticker shows the tint meets state standards. It’s a quick visual check for law enforcement.
Keep all your paperwork in the glove box. It proves your tint was legal when it was put on.
Laws can change. It’s a good idea to check the official state website every few years if you keep your car a long time.
What Happens If You Break the Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota?
If your tint is too dark, you can get a ticket. This is called a “fix-it” ticket in many cases.
The officer will likely give you a set amount of time. You have that time to remove the illegal tint and prove it.
If you fix it and show proof to the court, they often drop the fine. But you still have to deal with the hassle.
If you don’t fix it, you will have to pay the fine. You might also get another ticket later.
Repeated tickets can add up. It’s cheaper in the long run to just do it right the first time.
Illegal tint can also cause problems during vehicle safety inspections. Your car might not pass until you remove it.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), proper window visibility is a key part of vehicle safety for all drivers.
The Right Way to Measure Tint Under Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota
Police use a simple tool called a tint meter. They place it on your window to measure the VLT.
The meter reads the light coming through both the film and the glass. Your factory glass already blocks some light.
This is a key point. If your factory glass has a 75% VLT, adding a 70% film makes the total VLT about 52%.
That’s why you must think about the combo. The final number after installation is what the law cares about.
A good installer will measure your factory glass first. Then they will choose a film that gets you to the legal limit.
Don’t just ask for “35% tint.” Ask for a film that will result in a legal VLT after it’s on your specific car.
Knowing this helps you talk smart with your tint shop. It ensures you get a result that follows the car window tint laws in North Dakota.
Benefits of Following the Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota
Staying legal gives you peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about getting pulled over for your windows.
Legal tint still gives you many benefits. It blocks a good amount of the sun’s heat and harmful UV rays.
This protects your skin and your car’s interior. Your dashboard and seats won’t fade and crack as fast.
It also cuts down on glare. This makes driving safer and less tiring for your eyes.
You get more privacy too. People can’t see as easily what you have inside your car.
Following the car window tint laws in North Dakota means you can pass any check. Your car will be ready for sale or inspection anytime.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that reducing heat gain in a car can also improve fuel efficiency by making your AC work less hard.
Common Mistakes People Make with Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota
The biggest mistake is going too dark on the front windows. People see a dark tint and think it looks cool.
But it’s a sure way to get attention from the police. It’s the most common tint ticket given out.
Another mistake is using the wrong color film. Stick to neutral shades like gray, charcoal, or black.
Some people try to do it themselves. This often leads to bubbles, peeling, and an illegal result.
Forgetting about a medical exemption sticker is another error. If you have one, you must display the certificate.
Assuming the rules are the same for every vehicle type is wrong. Sedans and SUVs have different rules for the back windows.
Not checking the current laws is a final big mistake. Rules do get updated, so you need the latest info.
Tips for Choosing a Tint Under Car Window Tint Laws in North Dakota
Start by deciding what you want from the tint. Is it for looks, heat rejection, or privacy?
Look for a high-quality film brand. Brands like 3M, Llumar, or Johnson Window Films make good products.
Ask about ceramic tint. It rejects heat very well without being super dark, which helps you stay legal.
Get quotes from a few different shops. The cheapest price might mean they use cheap film that turns purple.
Read online reviews of the installer. See what other customers in North Dakota say about their work.
Make sure they offer a warranty. Good film comes with a lifetime warranty against bubbling and peeling.
Talk to them about the car window tint laws in North Dakota specifically. Their answer will tell you if they know their stuff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the darkest legal tint for front windows in North Dakota?
The darkest legal tint for front side windows on any vehicle is 50% VLT. This means at least half the light must get through.
Can I get a ticket for window tint in North Dakota?
Yes, you can. If your tint is darker than the car window tint laws in North Dakota allow, an officer can give you a fix-it ticket.
Do I need a note for medical tint in North Dakota?
Yes, you do. You must have a signed doctor’s statement and an official exemption certificate from the state to have darker-than-legal medical tint.
How much does it cost to tint car windows in North Dakota?
Prices vary. A full car with a good quality film usually costs between $200 and $500. Ceramic tint costs more but works better.
Is windshield tint illegal in North Dakota?
Yes, tint on the main part of the windshield is illegal. Only a non-reflective strip on the top few inches is allowed by the car window tint laws in North Dakota.
Where can I get my tint measured in North Dakota?
Most window tint shops have a tint meter. You can visit one and ask for a check. Some police departments might also check it for you.
Conclusion
So, the car window tint laws in North Dakota are there for safety. They make sure drivers can see clearly and other people can see the driver.
By following these rules, you get the benefits of tint without the headaches. You avoid fines and keep your car looking good and legal.
Always use a pro for installation. Keep your paperwork. And enjoy your cooler, more private, and legally tinted ride.
Staying informed about the car window tint laws in North Dakota is the best way to go. It saves you time, money, and trouble down the road.
Tony Kilmer is an auto mechanic and the author behind CarTruckAdvisor.com. He shares practical, no-nonsense guidance on car and truck maintenance, common problems, and repair decisions—helping drivers understand what’s going on and what to do next.
