North Carolina window tint law
In North Carolina, a passenger car's front side windows must let in at least 35% of light; rear side windows: at least 35% of light in; rear window: at least 35% of light in. Source: North Carolina General Statutes §20-127(b)-(f), NC General Assembly (Internet Archive copy, 2026-06-11, includes S.L. 2025-47), checked November 2026.
| Front side windows | 35% At least 35% total light transmission; reflectance 20% or less; not red, yellow or amber. |
|---|---|
| Rear side windows | 35% At least 35% total light transmission; reflectance 20% or less. |
| Rear window | 35% At least 35% total light transmission; reflectance 20% or less. |
| Windshield | Tint only along the top, no more than 5 inches down or below the AS-1 line, whichever is longer; clear UV film allowed. |
| Tolerance | A meter reading above 32% is conclusively presumed to meet the 35% rule. |
| SUVs, vans, trucks | Windows behind the driver on multipurpose vehicles (incl. minivans and pickups) are exempt from the % limits. |
| Medical exemption | Medical exception permit from the DMV Drivers Medical Evaluation Program (valid 5 years). |
The North Carolina front-side limit on a car
Levels we picture that meet the front-side limit: 70% (light)50% (medium-light)35% (medium)
Source
“The total light transmission of the tinted window shall be at least thirty-five percent (35%).”
Checked November 2026 (read from an archived copy of the official page). A summary of the passenger-car rules, not legal advice: laws change, so check the source or ask a local tint shop before you buy.
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