2026 Update

Massachusetts Window Tint Laws — Complete Guide

Creator: Massachusetts Tint Exemption Editorial Team
Published: 2025-01-15

Everything you need to know about window tint regulations in Massachusetts. Current legal limits for every window, penalties for violations, and how medical exemptions work.

Updated April 2026 · Massachusetts Tint Exemption Editorial Team

Massachusetts Tint Limits at a Glance

VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of light that passes through the window. Lower VLT means darker tint.

Window	Sedan	SUV / Van / Truck
Front Windshield	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line
Front Side Windows	35% VLT VLT	35% VLT VLT
Back Side Windows	35% VLT VLT	Any darkness
Rear Window	35% VLT VLT	Any darkness
Max Reflectivity	No metallic or mirrored tint	No metallic or mirrored tint

Understanding VLT Percentages

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission— it measures what percentage of light passes through your window tint. Here's what common VLT levels look like:

70% VLTVery light — barely noticeable

50% VLTLight tint — mild sun reduction

35% VLTMedium — noticeable but can still see inside

20% VLTDark — difficult to see inside from outside

5% (limo) VLTVery dark — nearly impossible to see inside

Penalties for Illegal Tint in Massachusetts

Driving with illegal tint can be costly

First offense: $250 fine
Repeat offenses: $250+ fine, mandatory tint removal
Additional: You may be required to remove the tint and show proof of removal

The easiest way to avoid these penalties while still getting the window tint you need is to obtain a medical exemption. With a valid exemption, your darker tint is completely legal.

Restricted Tint Colors

Massachusetts law restricts certain tint colors: Red, amber, and yellow not permitted. These colors are prohibited regardless of whether you have a medical exemption.

Medical Exemptions to Massachusetts Tint Laws

Massachusetts law allows individuals with qualifying medical conditions to apply for a tint exemption that permits darker window tint than the standard limits. This is authorized under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, §9D.

Must be certified by a licensed physician

Covers conditions causing light sensitivity or UV vulnerability

Exemption documentation must be kept in the vehicle

No sticker required

Common Questions About Massachusetts Tint Laws

Is tint a primary offense in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, a tint violation can be a primary reason for a traffic stop. This means an officer can pull you over solely for having window tint that appears too dark.

Can I tint my front windshield in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts allows non-reflective tint allowed above as-1 line. Full windshield tint is not permitted even with a medical exemption in most cases.

Do SUVs have different tint rules?

Yes. In Massachusetts, multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, trucks) can have any darkness on rear side windows and the rear window, while sedans must meet minimum VLT requirements.

How do police test window tint?

Law enforcement uses a tint meter (also called a photometer) to measure the VLT of your windows during a traffic stop or inspection. The device measures the percentage of light passing through.

Want Darker Tint? Get a Medical Exemption

If the standard Massachusettstint limits aren't dark enough for your medical needs, apply for a tint exemption today.