In Massachusetts, where sunny drives can quickly turn into squinting ordeals, many drivers turn to window tinting for relief from glare and heat. But before heading to the auto shop, it’s essential to understand the state’s specific rules to avoid costly tickets.
Window tinting is legal under certain conditions, but exceeding the limits can lead to fines and even license suspension. Massachusetts law allows tinting on vehicle windows as long as it meets visible light transmission (VLT) standards, which measure how much light passes through the glass.
For the windshield, drivers may apply tint to the top six inches only, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s line of sight or dip below the manufacturer’s AS-1 line marking. This limited tint helps reduce overhead glare without compromising visibility.For side windows—both front and rear—and the rear windshield, the state permits tint that allows at least 35% VLT. In other words, no more than 65% of the glass can block light…