Maryland Window Tinting Laws FAQ

This guide provides a reference for automotive window tinting regulations in the State of Maryland (MD Transportation Article § 22-406).

1. Understanding Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

  • What is VLT?: Visible Light Transmission (VLT) measures the percentage of visible light that passes through automotive glass and applied window film combined.
  • Higher VLT percentage: Lighter tint (more light enters the cabin).
  • Lower VLT percentage: Darker tint (less light enters the cabin).

2. Legal VLT Limits by Vehicle Classification

Maryland law distinguishes between Passenger Cars / Sedans and Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs / SUVs / Vans / Light Trucks).

  • Windshield (Passenger Cars): Top 5 inches or above AS-1 line (Non-reflective only).
  • Windshield (Multi-Purpose Vehicles): Top 5 inches or above AS-1 line (Non-reflective only).
  • Front Side Windows (Passenger Cars): Minimum 35% Net VLT.
  • Front Side Windows (Multi-Purpose Vehicles): Minimum 35% Net VLT.
  • Rear Side Windows (Passenger Cars): Minimum 35% Net VLT.
  • Rear Side Windows (Multi-Purpose Vehicles): Any darkness permitted.
  • Rear Windshield (Passenger Cars): Minimum 35% Net VLT.
  • Rear Windshield (Multi-Purpose Vehicles): Any darkness permitted (Requires dual side mirrors).

3. Reflectivity, Color & Equipment Restrictions

  • Reflectivity Caps: Mirrored, metallic, or chrome-like reflective film is strictly prohibited on all regulated windows.
  • Prohibited Colors: Red, Yellow, and Amber films are non-compliant under Maryland state law.
  • Dual Side Mirrors: Required whenever the rear windshield is tinted to any level or if rear side windows restrict visibility.
  • High-Mounted Third Brake Light: Film must not obscure or cover the high-mounted center brake light integrated into the rear windshield glass.

4. Medical Exemptions & Legal Process

  • Qualifying Conditions: Drivers or regular passengers with medical conditions causing photophobia or severe UV/light sensitivity (e.g., Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Xeroderma Pigmentosum, Solar Urticaria, Albinism) may qualify for a medical window tint exemption.
  • Application Procedure:
    • Obtain official certification from a licensed physician using Maryland State Police Form MSP ASED 23-04B (Physician Certification for Tinted Windows).
    • Carry the signed original or official certificate inside the vehicle at all times.
  • Critical Exemption Boundaries: A medical exemption relaxes VLT minimums on side and rear windows ONLY. It DOES NOT authorize:
    • Full windshield tinting below the AS-1 line / top 5 inches.
    • Prohibited colors (red, yellow, amber).
    • Reflective, metallic, or mirrored finishes.