Oklahoma Window Tint Laws: Know Your Rights, Drive in Style
Have You Fallen Victim to Oklahoma's Window Tint Law? Here's What You Need to Know.
If you've ever been pulled over for having tinted windows, you know how frustrating it can be. Not only do you have to deal with the inconvenience of getting a ticket, but you also have to worry about the cost of getting your windows retinted. But what if I told you that you might not have been breaking the law in the first place?
In Oklahoma, there are specific laws that dictate how dark your window tint can be. If your tint is too dark, you can be ticketed. But what many people don't realize is that the law is actually quite lenient. In fact, you're allowed to have tint as dark as 20% on your front side windows and 35% on your back side windows. You can also have a 5% tint on your rear window.
So, if you've been ticketed for having tinted windows, it's worth checking to see if your tint is actually illegal. You may be surprised to find that it's not. And if it is, you can always have it removed or lightened to meet the legal requirements.
Summary:
- Oklahoma's window tint law is more lenient than many people realize.
- You're allowed to have tint as dark as 20% on your front side windows and 35% on your back side windows.
- You can also have a 5% tint on your rear window.
- If you've been ticketed for having tinted windows, it's worth checking to see if your tint is actually illegal.
Window Tint Law Oklahoma: A Comprehensive Guide
Oklahoma's window tint law is designed to ensure driver visibility and promote road safety. It specifies the acceptable levels of window tint and regulates the installation of window tint film. Understanding these regulations and complying with them is crucial for Oklahoma drivers to avoid potential legal issues and safety hazards.
Understanding Oklahoma Window Tint Law
Oklahoma's window tint law stipulates specific requirements for the darkness and reflectivity of window tint on vehicles. These requirements vary depending on the type of vehicle and the window location.
Passenger Vehicles
For passenger vehicles in Oklahoma, the following tint levels are permitted:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Tint with a maximum visible light transmission (VLT) of 35% is allowed.
- Back Side Windows: Tint with a maximum VLT of 35% is permitted.
- Rear Window: Tint with a maximum VLT of 35% is allowed.
Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs), Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs), and Vans
For MPVs, SUVs, and vans in Oklahoma, the following tint levels are permitted:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Tint with a maximum VLT of 35% is allowed.
- Back Side Windows: Tint with a maximum VLT of 35% is permitted.
- Rear Window: Tint with a maximum VLT of 20% is allowed.
Penalties for Violating Oklahoma Window Tint Law
Violating Oklahoma's window tint law can result in various penalties, including:
- Traffic Ticket: Law enforcement officers may issue a traffic ticket for driving a vehicle with window tint that exceeds the legal limits.
- Fines: The fines for violating the window tint law can vary, depending on the severity of the violation.
- Vehicle Inspection: In some cases, officers may require a vehicle inspection to verify compliance with the window tint law.
- Vehicle Impoundment: In extreme cases, vehicles with excessive window tint may be impounded until the tint is removed or brought into compliance.
Tips for Complying with Oklahoma Window Tint Law
To ensure compliance with Oklahoma's window tint law, drivers should:
- Choose a reputable window tinting company that uses high-quality tint film and is familiar with the state's window tint regulations.
- Request a certificate of compliance from the window tinting company, which verifies that the tint film installed meets the legal requirements.
- Carry the certificate of compliance in the vehicle at all times, as law enforcement officers may request it during traffic stops.
- Avoid using homemade or low-quality window tint film, as it may not meet the legal requirements and could lead to violations.
Conclusion
Oklahoma's window tint law aims to balance driver visibility and road safety. By understanding the tint levels permitted by law and following the guidelines for installation, Oklahoma drivers can ensure compliance with the regulations and avoid potential legal consequences and safety hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Oklahoma?
- Answer: Yes, individuals with certain medical conditions, such as photosensitivity or skin cancer, may be eligible for a medical exemption. Contact the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety for more information.
- What if my car came with factory-tinted windows?
- Answer: Factory-tinted windows must still meet the legal tint limits in Oklahoma. If the factory tint exceeds the legal limits, additional window tint film cannot be applied.
- Can I tint my windshield in Oklahoma?
- Answer: Only the top 5 inches of the windshield can be tinted with non-reflective tint in Oklahoma. The rest of the windshield must remain untinted to ensure clear visibility.
- How can I tell if my window tint is legal in Oklahoma?
- Answer: Look for a certificate of compliance from the window tinting company, which should indicate that the tint film meets the legal requirements. You can also measure the VLT of your window tint using a tint meter.
- What are the consequences of driving with illegal window tint in Oklahoma?
- Answer: Violating Oklahoma's window tint law can result in traffic tickets, fines, vehicle inspections, and potentially vehicle impoundment until the tint is removed or brought into compliance.