Window Tinting on Your Car in Maine – How Much is Too Much?

Tinting your car windows is a great way to keep the glare out of your eyes, protect you from ultraviolet light, keep your car cooler, give you privacy, and make your car look awesome! But before you take the plunge into getting tinted windows, there are some things you need to know.

The State of Maine has laws regarding tinted windows in Maine, and they're pretty easy to follow as long as you are aware of them.

According to TintingLaws.com, the general rule is that you must allow more than 35% of light through most windows. Police have tools to instantly measure this, as demonstrated in the video by Deputy Frank Sloup of the Penal County Sherriff's office in Arizona.

Arizona is more lenient on window tint than Maine, requiring over 30% of light to pass through windows.

Here's the breakdown of what you need:

Tint darkness for sedans:

• Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the AS-1 line or the top 5 inches of the windshield.
• Front Side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
• Back Side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in; no restrictions on vehicles with outside rearview mirrors on each side.
• Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in; no restrictions on vehicles with outside rearview mirrors on each side.

Tint darkness for SUVs and vans:

• Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the AS-1 line or the top 5 inches of the windshield.
• Front Side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
• Back Side windows: Any darkness can be used.
• Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Violations of these rules could get you a ticket at a minimum fine of $100.

If your window tinting is being done professionally, they are well aware of Maine law. But it doesn't hurt to ask them to make sure you are in compliance before you drive off.