Cars with tinted windows look fancy for sure, but if you live in Connecticut, that won’t be a good idea! Thanks to the Connecticut tint laws, you cannot use tint film on the windows whenever you want.
But what do these laws say? Well, that’s what we’ll discuss here today.
It was 1994 when the car tinting law in Connecticut was proposed. It talks about how dark or reflective your car window tint should be, depending on the state you live in.
We’ve provided all the information you need in this regard over here. Also, there is also some extra information on rules and regulations, which you should obey if you don’t want to get fined.
So yes, it’s pretty crucial you read the whole article from top to bottom.
Connecticut Tint Laws 2023 – Everything You Need to Know
Before you get to know the Connecticut window tint laws, you need to learn about the VLT. So before we get into the details, let’s talk about it first!
What does VLT mean according to Connecticut state law?
The VLT or Visible Light Transmission indicated the percentage of detectable light that passes through your car’s window.
When the VLT is lower, the window tint will get darker. And higher VLT/ Visible Light Transmission means that more light will penetrate the car windows without any trouble.
For instance, if you install 75% tint on the glasses, 75% light will go through them. And when the tint is 5%, the insides of your car will be way darker!
By the way, We have in-depth content about VLT and window tint percentage for your reference. We recommend checking it out If you want to know the different levels of window tint.
So, What is The Legal Tint in Connecticut- CT Window Tint Law 2023
The Connecticut window tint law is different for each type of vehicle. For passenger and multipurpose vehicles, you have to follow dissimilar rules.
So here are the CT window tint laws for multipurpose and passenger automobiles.
Legal Tint in CT- Tint Darkness for Passenger Vehicles

- Windshield
Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. - Front side windows
For front-side windows, 35% tint is allowed according to the Connecticut window tint law. - Backside windows
You can use 35% tint is allowed according to the Connecticut window tint rules. - Rear window
Any tint of darkness can be used
Legal Tint in CT- Tint Darkness for Multi-purpose Vehicles

- Windshield
Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. - Front side windows
The law will let you use 35% tinting if it is about the front side windows. - Backside windows
You can use any tint darkness for backside windows. - Rear window
Any tint of darkness can be used.
Window Tint Reflection in Connecticut
Using tint on your automobile’s window can reflect the incoming light and reduce the heat. Moreover, the tinted windows also prevent glares.
Well, the window tint Connecticut law authorizes some specific window reflection while using a tint. So if you ever think about coloring the glasses, pay attention to this as well.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front side windows
In the front side windows, you don’t have permission to use more than 21% reflective. - Backside windows
In the backside windows, you don’t have permission to use more than 27% reflective.
Tint reflection for SUV and Vans
- Front Side windows
In the front side windows, you don’t have permission to use more than 21% reflective. - Backside windows
In the backside windows, you don’t have permission to use more than 27% reflective.
Other Connecticut Window Tint Laws and Regulations You Need to Know
When it comes to window tinting of your vehicle, Connecticut is pretty serious about that. You will have plenty of rules and regulations to abide by.
Besides maintaining a specific percentage of the glare on each window, here are some other restrictions you need to follow, even if you want to do a subtle darkening.
Side mirrors in Connecticut
Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
Restricted Colors
When someone hears about the tint laws in Connecticut, the next question they ask is which color to use on the glass. Well, the law of Connecticut No window tint colors are explicitly prohibited. that’s no secret! So which colors can be used?
You can use gray, green, and bronze car window tint without any issue. Moreover, you have permission to use neutral smoke colors too.
Therefore, if you want to use smoke gray window tint, you can do that confidently.
Certificates
Film manufacturers need to certify the film they sell in Connecticut. Check with your dealer to make sure they are using certified film.
Stickers
The sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on each tinted window.
Penalties
When the coloring has been done wrongly, you will be given a warning to fix that. And if you don’t handle this issue with caution and get it repaired by the given time, you will be fined up to $300, including a $10 extra charge.
Connecticut Window Tint Medical Exemption
In Connecticut, the law states that any driver with a medical exemption can tint their car windows to any degree. To get this exemption, you must have a letter from your doctor that specifically states that you need to tint your windows for medical reasons. The letter must include your name, date of birth, and the specific reason why you need to tint your windows. You must also have this letter with you whenever you’re driving, and present it to a police officer if they ask for it.
How to Get Medical Exemption for Window Tint in Connecticut
The process for getting this Connecticut Window Tint Medical Exemption Window Tint Exemption Form is fairly simple. You just need to go to your doctor and get a note from them stating that you need the dark tint for medical reasons. Once you have the note, take it to your local motor vehicle office and they will issue you an exemption sticker to put on your car.
Connecticut Medical Exemption Requirements
State | Connecticut |
Statute, regulation, or other sources | C.G.S.A. § 14-99g Regs. Conn. State Agencies § 14-99g-7 |
For whom the exemption may apply | driver or usual passenger |
Reason(s) | the person for medical reasons must be shielded from direct rays of the sun |
Which windows | N/A |
Limits on the amount of tint | may not be so dark as to impair driving safety (<20% light transmittance is too dark); this may be waived for good cause shown |
Certification from medical provider (which type[s] of provider) | physician or optometrist licensed to practice in the state, after examination of the applicant |
Application to state department | required |
Document required in vehicle | form validated by the commissioner |
Medical exemption info
Connecticut Application & Special Permit for Exemption from Tinted Window Requirements
Benefits of Car Window Tinting in Connecticut
The tint on your car’s window isn’t just a decorative thing; it comes with greater benefits too. So let’s talk about the advantage of coloring your vehicle’s window, shall we?
Prevents the Interior from Fading
While parking our cars, we always look for shades, don’t we? Well, it helps us to maintain the top-notch condition of our car’s exterior.
Likewise, when you use tints on your vehicle’s windows, the interior doesn’t have to face the harshness of the sunlight. Therefore, if you have beautiful leather seats, they are less likely to get damaged!
Blocks UV Rays
You don’t need to get lectured about the harmful effects of UV rays, do you? We all know that applying tons of sunscreen isn’t enough to protect you from damage. And when your car has tinted glasses, you can avert this UV situation pretty gracefully.
Get Better Security
Nothing is worst than people staring at you when you mind your own business in the car. The people in the backseat have to go through this problem more than the drivers. And when you get tinted glasses, you don’t have to go through this annoyance anymore.
Take a Chill Pill
When riding on the hottest summer days, even the AC won’t be enough to cool you down. But if you have tinted windows, you don’t have to worry about sweating anymore!
Cost of Car Window Tint in Connecticut
The cost may vary from film to film when it is to tint. For instance, if you want to use a regular classic film for your Sedan, it will cost you up to 150-200 bucks. And when you want something exclusive like ceramic tints, you will need to spend $400 or more!
However, if you don’t have the budget to do the tinting professionally, you can get a DIY tint kit. It will cost you around a hundred bucks, which is a relief!
To know more detail about car tint cost click here.
Connecticut, CT Tint Laws FAQ
Is 5 tint legal in ct?
you can’t use 5% tint on front side windows and backside windows but on the only rear window, you can use 5% tint.
Is 20 tint legal in CT?
Without the rear window, you can’t use 20% window tint in Connecticut.
Is 35 tint legal in CT?
Yes, 35% tint is legal in CT.
Is ceramic tint legal in CT?
Yes, ceramic tint is legal in ct.
Can you tint your windshield in CT?
Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Is it legal to tint tail lights in CT?
No, tint tail lights are not legal in CT.
How much is a tint ticket in CT?
up to $300, including a $10 extra charge.
Connecticut, CT Tint law references
General Statutes of Connecticut, Title 13b, Chapter 246, Section 14-99g
Quick Reference on Tinted Windows (Connecticut DMV)
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, it is important to be familiar with the Connecticut window tint laws if you are planning to get your car tinted. While there are some restrictions, the benefits of window tinting make it well worth the effort to follow the guidelines. To learn more about Connecticut‘s window tinting laws or for assistance finding a qualified installer, visit the website of the Connecticut Criminal Justice Information Center.
The goal of creating this article was to enlighten you about the Connecticut tint laws so you can confidently drive your car through the state. The article you’ve read just now was last updated in 2021. If you think we’ve missed any new information, feel free to contact us anytime you want.