Yes, you can tint your car windows in Delaware, but you must follow the state’s specific rules. Understanding the car window tint laws in Delaware is key to staying legal and avoiding fines.
Many drivers want tinted windows for looks and privacy. They also help block the sun’s heat. But each state has its own rules about how dark you can go.
Delaware’s laws are pretty clear. They tell you the exact darkness allowed for each window. They also have rules about the tint’s reflectivity.
Getting this wrong can cost you. A ticket for illegal tint is no fun. It might also mean you have to remove the tint right away.
What Are the Car Window Tint Laws in Delaware?
Let’s break down the main rules. The car window tint laws in Delaware focus on two things: darkness and reflection.
Darkness is measured in VLT, or Visible Light Transmission. This number tells you how much light gets through the tint. A lower VLT means a darker tint.
For the front side windows, the law is strict. They must let in more than 70% of light. This means a very light tint, or often no tint at all on factory glass.
The back side windows and the rear window can be darker. The car window tint laws in Delaware allow any darkness for these windows on sedans.
But for SUVs and vans, the rules are different. Back side and rear windows can also be any darkness. This is a common point of confusion for drivers.
Reflectivity is also controlled. Tint cannot be more than 35% reflective. A mirror-like finish is not allowed on any window.
Why You Must Know the Car Window Tint Laws in Delaware
Ignorance is not an excuse. Police officers can and will pull you over for illegal tint.
A fine is the most common penalty. The cost can add up, especially if you get ticketed more than once. You don’t want to pay for the same mistake twice.
You might also get a “fix-it” ticket. This means you have to remove the illegal tint. Then you must prove to the court that you fixed the problem.
This process wastes your time and money. You pay for removal, then pay for new legal tint. It’s much easier to do it right the first time.
Your car could also fail its state inspection. Delaware requires periodic safety inspections. Illegal tint will cause your car to fail.
You cannot drive a car that failed inspection. You must fix the issue and get it re-inspected. This is another big hassle to avoid.
How Darkness is Measured in Car Window Tint Laws in Delaware
The VLT number is the key. When you talk to a tint shop, they will use this term.
Factory glass already has some tint. Most car windows let in about 70-80% light from the factory. This is important to remember.
If the law says 70% VLT for front windows, and your glass is already 80%, you can only add a tint that brings it down to 70%. This is a very light film.
Tint shops have meters to check this. They can measure your factory glass first. Then they know what film, if any, they can add legally.
Police use these meters too. During a traffic stop, an officer can test your windows. If the meter reads below the legal limit, you get a ticket.
So, the car window tint laws in Delaware are based on the final result. It’s the total VLT of the window and the film together that counts.
The Medical Exemption in Car Window Tint Laws in Delaware
Some people need darker tint for health reasons. The state understands this and allows for exceptions.
You must have a certified medical condition. Conditions like lupus or photosensitivity often qualify. Your doctor must state you need extra protection from sunlight.
You need official paperwork. A signed statement from a licensed physician is required. The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has a specific form for this.
You submit this form to the DMV. Once approved, you get a certificate or waiver. You must keep this document in your vehicle at all times.
The exemption has limits. It typically allows darker tint on the front side windows. The exact allowed darkness will be stated on your waiver.
Even with an exemption, you must follow the rules. Your tint must still meet other state laws, like reflectivity. The medical waiver is not a free pass for any tint.
Choosing a Tint Installer Who Knows the Laws
Not all tint shops are equal. You need one that knows the car window tint laws in Delaware inside and out.
A good shop will ask what you drive. They know the rules differ for sedans versus multi-purpose vehicles. They will guide you to legal options.
They should measure your factory glass first. This is a sign of a professional. They won’t just slap on a film without checking the starting point.
They should provide a certificate. Many shops give you a small card stating the VLT of the film they installed. This is helpful proof if you are ever questioned.
Ask about their warranty. A reputable installer will stand by their work. They should offer a warranty against peeling, bubbling, and color change.
Check reviews online. See what other customers say. Look for comments about the shop’s knowledge of the car window tint laws in Delaware specifically.
Common Mistakes People Make with Car Window Tint
The biggest mistake is going too dark on the front windows. People want privacy and a uniform look. But the law does not allow it.
Another error is not accounting for factory tint. Adding a 50% film to an 80% factory window gives you 40% total VLT. That’s illegal for front windows in Delaware.
People forget about the windshield. The car window tint laws in Delaware only allow a non-reflective tint on the top few inches. You cannot tint the whole windshield.
Using cheap, dyed film is a problem. It might look okay at first. But it often turns purple or bubbles over time, making your car look bad and possibly causing visibility issues.
Some drivers get tint put on out of state. Laws are different everywhere. Tint that’s legal in Maryland or New Jersey might be illegal in Delaware.
Not keeping medical exemption papers in the car is a mistake. If you have a waiver, you must have the proof with you. An officer can’t just take your word for it.
The Benefits of Legal Window Tint
Even legal tint offers great benefits. You don’t need to break the law to get good results.
It blocks a lot of UV rays. The Skin Cancer Foundation notes that UV protection is important for drivers. Tint can help protect your skin and your car’s interior.
It reduces heat buildup. A cooler car means your air conditioner works less hard. This can save fuel and make the car more comfortable faster.
It reduces glare from the sun and headlights. This can make driving safer, especially at dawn or dusk. Less squinting means less eye strain.
It adds a layer of shatter resistance. If a window breaks, the film can hold the glass together. This helps prevent injuries from flying glass.
It protects your privacy and security. While front windows are light, darker rear windows can hide valuables on your back seat from view.
What to Do If You Get a Ticket for Illegal Tint
Stay calm and be polite with the officer. Arguing at the roadside rarely helps your case.
Get the tint corrected as soon as you can. Go to a professional shop and have the illegal film removed. Have them install a legal film if you still want tint.
Get proof of the correction. The shop should give you a receipt. It should state that the illegal tint was removed and/or legal tint was installed.
Go to court with your proof. Often, if you show you fixed the problem, the judge will dismiss the fine. You might still have to pay court costs.
Consider it a lesson learned. Now you understand the car window tint laws in Delaware better. Make sure your next tint job follows all the rules to avoid a repeat.
Check all your windows. Sometimes people only tint two windows illegally. But you might have other windows that are also too dark and could get you another ticket.
How Other State Laws Compare to Car Window Tint Laws in Delaware
Delaware is stricter than some of its neighbors. It’s useful to know this if you travel often.
Pennsylvania, for example, also has a 70% VLT law for front side windows. So that rule is similar if you drive north.
Maryland is different. Their law allows more tint on front side windows. Driving a car legal in Maryland might be illegal in Delaware.
New Jersey is very strict. They allow no tint on the front side windows at all. Their law is even tighter than the car window tint laws in Delaware.
The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) tracks these state-by-state rules. It’s a good resource if you move or buy a car from another state.
The main takeaway is to know the rules where you drive most. If you live in Delaware, follow Delaware’s laws, even if your car would be fine elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Window Tint Laws in Delaware
What is the darkest legal tint for front windows in Delaware?
The front side windows must allow more than 70% of light in. This is a very light tint. Many cars cannot have any added film and still meet this law.
Can I have 5% tint on my back windows in Delaware?
Yes, on sedans. The car window tint laws in Delaware allow any darkness on the back side windows and rear window for passenger cars. SUVs and vans have the same rule.
Is a tint ticket a moving violation in Delaware?
No, it is usually a equipment violation. It does not add points to your license. But you still have to pay a fine and fix the problem.
How can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Delaware?
You need a doctor’s statement. You then submit it to the Delaware DMV on their official form. They will issue you a waiver if approved.
Do I need to certify my tint after it’s installed?
Delaware does not require a state certification sticker. But you should keep the installer’s receipt and any product information in your glove box.
Where can I find the official car window tint laws in Delaware?
You can find the full legal text on the Delaware Code website. Look under Title 21, Chapter 43. The DMV website also has a summary for drivers.
Conclusion
So, what are the car window tint laws in Delaware? They are rules you need to follow to stay on the right side of the law.
The key is the 70% VLT rule for front side windows. This is the rule that catches most people off guard. Always check your total VLT, not just the film’s darkness.
Getting professional help is smart. A good tint shop will make sure your car meets all the car window tint laws in Delaware. This saves you from future headaches and costs.
Enjoy the benefits of legal tint. It still protects you from sun and heat. It still makes your car look good. And you can drive without worrying about a ticket.
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.
