Window Tinting and License Plate Covers in New York and New Jersey: Legal Requirements and Regulations

Understanding the legal requirements for window tinting and license plate covers is essential for vehicle owners in New York and New Jersey. Both states have specific laws that outline the allowable levels of tinting and the visibility of license plates. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide to help you comply with the legal regulations and ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

Window Tinting Laws

Laws regarding window tinting in New York and New Jersey are designed to ensure vehicle occupants have sufficient visibility and to avoid obstructed views for law enforcement during interactions. Below are the specific requirements for different types of windows in each state:

New York State Window Tinting Regulations

Front Windshield

Technicians in New York state must ensure that the front windshield allows more than 70% of light to pass through. Non-reflective tint can be applied above the AS-1 line. This line is an imaginary horizontal line that runs from window pillar to window pillar.

Front Side Windows

Similarly, the front side windows must allow more than 70% of light to pass through. This regulation maintains clear visibility for drivers and passengers and reduces the risk of accidents due to obstructed vision.

Back Side Windows and Rear Window

There are no restrictions on the darkness of the tint for the back side windows and the rear window. However, reflective tint cannot exceed 30%. This regulation ensures that the driver and passengers have a clear view out the rear and side windows while maintaining a balanced level of protection from direct sunlight.

New Jersey State Window Tinting Regulations

Front Windshield

The front windshield must allow more than 70% of light to pass through, with non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line. This regulation is in place to ensure that both drivers and passengers have clear visibility and to enhance safety on the roads.

Front Side Windows

The front side windows must allow more than 70% of light to pass through. This requirement is consistent with New York, promoting clear visibility and reducing the risk of accidents.

Back Side Windows and Rear Window

Similar to New York, New Jersey does not restrict the darkness of back side windows and the rear window. However, reflective tint cannot exceed 30% to ensure that the driver and passengers have a clear view while minimizing reflection.

License Plate Covers

License plate covers are strictly prohibited in both New York and New Jersey to ensure that law enforcement officers can clearly identify vehicles during traffic stops. Obstructing license plates is not only illegal but also poses a safety hazard. Here are the detailed laws and regulations:

New Jersey License Plate Cover Laws

Under N.J.S.A. 39:3-33, using any cover or holder that obscures or conceals any lettering on the license plate is considered a violation. Violators can be fined up to $100 for this offense. The primary goal of this law is to maintain public safety by ensuring that all vehicles have clearly visible and readable license plates.

New York State License Plate Cover Laws

New York state regulations, specifically within Article 14 - REGISTRATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES, mandate that number plates be clearly visible. Any cover that obstructs the visibility of the license plate is illegal. This regulation is intended to prevent accidents and ensure that law enforcement can quickly identify vehicles during traffic stops.

Conclusion

Both New York and New Jersey have strict regulations concerning window tinting and license plate covers. It is crucial to adhere to these legal requirements to avoid fines or penalties and to ensure public safety. Firms that provide window tinting services can help you ensure compliance, but it is essential to understand the regulations governing your specific vehicle and location.

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By following these guidelines and maintaining compliance with local laws, vehicle owners can ensure their vehicles meet all legal requirements and contribute to a safer driving environment.