If you desire more on-road privacy, or you want to reduce the glare in your vehicle, you might be looking at using various types of tint on the windows and windshield. Mirror tint is always an option with its reflective surface. However, is mirror tint legal on a car?
In this guide, I look at the legality of mirror tint. I also discuss some of the benefits of using mirror tint and discuss some considerations to think about before installing it.
Is Mirror Tint Legal on a Car?
Mirror tinting isn’t legal on a car in every state, but there are some places where you can use it. Each state sets its own regulations on how much light needs to pass through the auto glass tint. This amount could vary based on whether you are tinting front or back windows, so it’s best to check local laws.
For example, several states have either a full or partial ban on mirror reflective auto tint. Even if mirror tint isn’t banned outright, you will need to check the laws to see how much light must pass through. If you violate local laws, you can be pulled over and will likely be given a pricey ticket.
Here is a list of the mirror tint laws we found in various states. Remember that there are different rules for front and back window tinting and that the laws can change. This information is for entertainment purposes only and you should always double check the local laws of your country by contacting the authorities.
| State | Mirror Tint Legality |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Max 20% Reflective |
| Alaska | Not Allowed |
| Arizona | Max 35% Reflective |
| Arkansas | Not Allowed |
| California | Not Allowed |
| Colorado | Not Allowed |
| Connecticut | Max 21% Reflective |
| Delaware | Not Allowed |
| Florida | Max 25% Reflective |
| Georgia | Max 20% Reflective |
| Hawaii | Not Allowed |
| Idaho | Max 35% Reflective |
| Illinois | Not Allowed |
| Indiana | Max 25% Reflective |
| Iowa | Not Allowed |
| Kansas | Not Allowed |
| Kentucky | Max 25% Reflective |
| Louisiana | Max 20% Reflective |
| Maine | Not Allowed |
| Maryland | No Law |
| Massachusetts | Max 35% Reflective |
| Michigan | Max 35% Reflective |
| Minnesota | Max 20% Reflective |
| Mississippi | Max 20% Reflective |
| Missouri | Max 35% Reflective |
| Montana | Max 35% Reflective |
| Nebraska | Max 35% Reflective |
| Nevada | No Law |
| New Hampshire | Not Allowed |
| New Jersey | Not Allowed |
| New Mexico | No Law |
| New York | Not Allowed |
| North Carolina | Max 20% Reflective |
| North Dakota | Not Allowed |
| Ohio | Not Allowed |
| Oklahoma | Max 20% Reflective |
| Oregon | Max 13% Reflective |
| Pennsylvania | Not Allowed |
| Rhode Island | No Law |
| South Carolina | Not Allowed |
| South Dakota | Not Allowed |
| Tennessee | Not Allowed |
| Texas | Max 25% Reflective |
| Utah | Not Allowed |
| Vermont | Not Allowed |
| Virginia | Max 20% Reflective |
| Washington | Max 35% Reflective |
| Washington D.C. | No Law |
| West Virginia | Max 20% Reflective |
| Wisconsin | No Law |
| Wyoming | Max 20% Reflective |
RELATED: Windshield Tint – Pros, Cons, Darkness & Is it Legal?
Benefits of Mirror Window Tint
1. Reduces Glare
If you are sensitive to the glare from sunlight or oncoming headlights, you will appreciate the reflective tint. With this film, less of the light shines through, keeping your eyes better protected.
While this glare protection has its daytime benefits with the sunshine, especially when it is shining off of snow, it’s also equally important at night. With the reflective tint on your windshield or side windows, you can squint less when there are headlights facing your car.
2. Stylish Appearance
Tinted windows alone are quite stylish, but there’s something special about the reflective, mirror-like design. It creates a distinctive appearance that other tint types can’t replicate.
Depending on how the sun hits the tint, it gives off a mirror-type feel, reflecting back what’s outside the window instead of showing what’s inside the car. However, there are some people that don’t appreciate the shiny appearance and would rather go with a traditional tint.
3. Controls Heat
When it comes to any type of window tint, you can reduce sunlight, which keeps the heat at bay. However, mirror tint does an even better job of blocking out the sunlight and heat because of its reflective design.
When the heat is kept to a minimum, the air conditioning can work better. With a more efficient AC system, you will be more comfortable, even when it gets scorching hot outside.
4. UV Protection
When you tint the windows, you cut down on how many UV rays seep through. You might even need fewer applications of sunscreen.
With the best mirror tint, you might be able to block up to 99% of UV radiation. This doesn’t just keep you from sunburn – it also helps to reduce your chances of skin cancer.
5. Protects Upholstery
A mirror tint is going to deflect sunlight. I’ve looked at the other benefits from this above, but don’t forget what it will do to your upholstery. Instead of having the sun’s rays beating on the upholstery, it will be better protected.
Not only will you be able to spend less money on protectants, but the upholstery will remain in better condition over time. This protection allows you to get more for your vehicle when you sell it, thereby further giving you a better return on investment.
6. Increased Safety
The mirror reflective tint keeps would-be thieves from seeing inside the car easily. For that reason, your possessions are better protected.
Additionally, putting any film on the windows makes it stronger. It becomes more difficult to break. If you are in an accident, you are better protected from shattering auto glass during the incident.
RELATED: How to Remove Window Tint (4 Easy Methods)
Factors to Consider Before Applying Mirror Tint
1. Local Laws
Before you tint your auto glass with any type of film, you need to check your state laws. In most states, there are different laws for the back windows, front windows, and the windshield. You might need to use different tint types for each of these windows.
If you choose to go with something darker than what’s permitted, you can expect to be pulled over. Local police don’t usually treat tinted windows with a warning, either – you will probably get a ticket and be forced to remove the tint. It’s much easier just to follow the rules from the beginning.
2. Car Color
It’s easy to get excited about mirror tint because of how great it normally looks. However, it’s not that stylish with every car color. You want to personally consider how it’s going to match your vehicle.
If possible, get some of the tint and put it together with your car to see what it might look like. If that’s not possible, you can look up some pictures online of your color car with mirror tint to see what you think.
3. Cost of Application
If you are looking to save some money, you might try to apply the mirror tint on your own. While this is possible, it might not produce the results you are looking for. If you don’t have a lot of experience applying window tint, you could be left with air bubbles and an unprofessional look.
Many people prefer to have the mirror tint installed by an expert. Not only does this create a better-looking appearance, but it also gives you access to higher-end materials. If you want the window tint to last as long as possible, this is a better option, but you will have to pay more. Evaluate the cost before you get started to ensure you can follow through until the end.
RELATED: How Much Does It Cost to Tint Car Windows?
Categories: Cleaning & Detailing
