All states have traffic laws that limit the amount of window tint on motor vehicles—often by specifying the amount of visible light transmission (VLT) that is required. VLT is the amount of light that is transmitted through the window and into the vehicle. For example, a 70%VLT means that 70% of light will pass through the window and 30% will be reflected. Thus, a lower VLT indicates a darker film or tint.

Another term to know is visual light reflection (VLR)—which is the opposite of VLT. VLR is the amount of solar energy that is reflected off the glass and away from the inside of the vehicle.

In most states tickets or citations for illegal window tint are known as fix-it tickets and the ticket or citation will indicate that it is a correctable violation of traffic laws. For example, if you fix the window tint problem within the required period, pay a small fine, and get the signature of an authorized person (a local police officer) the court may dismiss the ticket.

But if you fail to fix the window tint problem within the required period you must pay the fine for the violation and you may be issued another ticket that will be part of your driving record. And if you fail to pay the ticket or appear in court on the hearing date the court may issue a warrant for your arrest.

Window tint laws vary from state to state and some states have exemptions for certain vehicles such as limousines and recognize medical exemptions when the driver has a written statement from a licensed medical doctor, ophthalmologist, or optometrist.

In North Dakota, window tint laws are designed to ensure that drivers have sufficient visibility while operating their vehicles. The state specifies the amount of visible light transmission (VLT) that must pass through car windows, which is a measure of how dark the tint can be. For the front side windows, the VLT must be at least 50%, meaning that at least 50% of the light must pass through the window. The back side and rear windows can have a VLT of as low as 30%. The law also regulates the reflectiveness of the tint, with a limit on the visual light reflection (VLR) to reduce glare and reflection. North Dakota does provide exemptions for certain vehicles and for individuals with a medical condition that requires protection from the sun, as long as they have documentation from a licensed physician. If a driver is cited for illegal window tint in North Dakota, it is typically considered a correctable violation. The driver would need to rectify the issue, pay a fine, and have the correction verified to potentially have the ticket dismissed. Failure to comply can result in additional fines, a mark on the driving record, and potentially a warrant for arrest if court orders are ignored.