Window tinting is a popular choice for many car owners in the United States. It provides numerous benefits, such as enhanced privacy, reduced glare, and protection from harmful UV rays. However, each state has its own regulations regarding the permissible levels of window tinting. If you’re in Kansas and considering a 15% tint for your vehicle, it’s crucial to understand the state’s window tinting laws to avoid any legal issues. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Kansas tint laws, penalties for non-compliance, and how to get a tint exemption if needed.
Kansas Window Tinting Laws
In Kansas, the law is very specific about the amount of light that must pass through your vehicle’s windows. The darkness for sedan cars and SUV cars or vans is different in Kansas. To avoid legal issues, you must understand these laws and ensure your vehicle complies with state standards. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Windshield Tint
- Non-reflective tint is permitted on the upper portion of the windshield.
- The allowable area for tint is defined by the AS-1 line, a marker on the windshield indicating the manufacturer’s recommended area for sun visors.
- Reflective tints are strictly prohibited on the windshield.
Front Side Windows:
More than 35% tint must be allowed on front side windows to pass through the light, as measured by Visible Light Transmission(VLT). But in Kansas, more than 35% darkness for front side windows is illegal.
Back Side Windows:
Similar to front-side windows, these must allow more than 35% tint. However, if the tinting limit exceeds 35%, it is considered illegal.
Rear Window:
Similarly, less than 35% of light transmission is on all windows (rear, front, and back side windows).
So, where does 15% tint stand? A 15% tint, which only allows 15% of light to pass through, does not meet the legal requirements for any windows in Kansas except for the allowable area on the windshield. Adhering to these regulations is important to avoid fines and penalties.
Why People Choose 15% Tint?
Many car owners prefer 15% tint for its substantial benefits. This tint percentage provides significant privacy, making it difficult for outsiders to look or see into the vehicle. The other advantage of tinting cars is that it offers excellent protection against harmful UV rays, which can protect the vehicle’s interior and occupants.
- Privacy:
This is the primary reason because only 15% of light transmission or tint provides significant privacy. It reduces vehicles’ visibility and makes it difficult for outsiders to see into them.
- UV Protection:
It offers excellent protection against harmful UV rays, which can protect both the vehicle’s interior and its occupants.
- Heat Reduction:
While not as effective as higher-number tints in blocking heat, it still provides some relief from the sun’s rays.
- Aesthetics:
A darker tint gives the vehicle a sleek, stylish look that many find appealing.
- Glare Reduction:
It significantly reduces glare from the sun and headlights, making driving more comfortable and safer.
Window Tint Reflection in KSA
Window tints may help reflect incoming light and reduce glare and heat. Kansas federal window tint law allows for a certain level of window reflection when using tint, so paying attention to this is important. Window tint reflection for Sedans are
- Front-side Windows: Non-metallic and allow more than 35% light transmission.
- Back-side Windows: Non-metallic and allow more than 35% light transmission.
Tint reflection for SUVs and vans:
The same regulations regarding reflective tint apply to SUVs and Vans as they do to cars in Kansas.
- Front-side window: No reflective tint is allowed on any window of an SUV or van.
- Back-side window: No reflective tint is allowed on any window of an SUV or van.
Additional Rules & Regulations In Kansas
There are some other Kansas rules and regulations regarding window tint, which are as follows.
- Tint Color: Red, amber, and yellow tints are not allowed in Kansas.
- Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the back side window is tinted.
- Measurement: Tint darkness is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT). A higher percentage indicates more light can pass through.
- Sticker: While not legally required, having a sticker indicating legal tinting is recommended.
Despite these benefits, ensuring that your tint complies with state laws to avoid legal issues is essential.
What are the penalties for Illegal Tint in Kansas?
If your vehicle’s tint violates Kansas laws, you could face legal issues and penalties, such as fines, Insurance Impact, and Vehicle. The fine for illegal tints in Kansas typically ranges from $100 to $200. However, the exact amount can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the law enforcement officer.
If you do not follow state law, your vehicles with illegal tint may fail state inspection, creating problems when renewing your vehicle registration.
Illegal tint can also affect your insurance rates. Insurance companies may view illegal modifications as a risk factor, potentially leading to higher premiums. To avoid these penalties, ensuring that your vehicle’s tint complies with Kansas laws is crucial.
How to Get a Tint Exemption in Kansas?
Kansas does allow for medical exemptions to window tint laws. If you face any medical condition regarding sun protection and require a darker window tint, you can apply for a tint exemption. Here, we discuss requirements and processing:
- Eligibility:
Physician’s Statement: You need a physician’s statement that elaborates in detail on your medical need for a darker tint. This statement must be included with your application.
- Application Process:
Submit the physician’s statement and other required documents to the Kansas Department of Revenue. Once approved, you will receive a certificate that you must carry in your vehicle at all times.
- Renewal:
It’s important to keep your exemption certificate up-to-date. If your medical condition changes or if you no longer need the exemption, you must inform the Kansas Department of Revenue. Regularly review the expiration date of your exemption and renew it as needed.
Conclusion: While considering 15% tint, it’s important to understand and adhere to Kansas window tinting laws, which are very important for all vehicle owners. Though the benefits of darker tint are appealing, it’s important to ensure your vehicle remains compliant with state regulations to avoid penalties. If you have a legitimate medical need for darker tint, applying for a tint exemption is a viable option. Always stay informed about local laws and make choices that prioritize both safety and legality.
