South Carolina Window Tinting Laws
Window tint darkness in South Carolina
The percent of visible light allowed through your car windows is called VLT: Visible Light Transmission. The percentage of light allowed through your film and glass in South Carolina is very specific and different for sedan cars and SUV cars or vans.
Tint darkness for sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Tint darkness for SUV and vans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Any darkness can be applied several (unspecified) inches from the top of the window.
- Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.
Window tint reflection in South Carolina
Window tint can reflect incoming light and reduce glare and heat. South Carolina window tint law permits a certain window reflection when using a tint so make sure you pay attention to this as well.
Tint reflection for sedans:
- Front Side windows: Must be non reflective, state law is not specific about what this means.
- Back Side windows: Must be non reflective, state law is not specific about what this means.
Tint reflection for SUV and vans:
- Front Side windows: Must be non reflective, state law is not specific about what this means.
- Back Side windows: Must be non reflective, state law is not specific about what this means.
Other South Carolina window tint rules and regulations:
South Carolina does have several other important laws, rules and regulations pertaining to window tinting. They include the following:
- Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if back window is tinted.
- Restricted Colors: Tint colors red, amber and yellow are not permitted by law.
- Certificates: Film manufacturers need to certify the film they sell in South Carolina. Check with your dealer if they are using certified film.
- Stickers: The sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on each tinted window.
- Medical Exceptions: South Carolina allows medical exemptions for special tint. For more details about the specific terms of the exemption, consult your state law.
- Penalties: Misdemeanor with minimum $200 fine or 30 days in prison for each offense.