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Virginia window tint laws

In Virginia, the windshield can have non reflective tint at the top of the windshield above the AS-1 line. The front side windows must allow more than fifty percent of light in. Back side windows must allow more than thirty five percent of light in. The rear window must also allow more than thirty five percent of light in. 

The reflectiveness of the tint also matters. Some tinting film contain metallic elements that help in reflecting light that comes in and making the glare that the light makes a minimal. It also helps in the reduction of heat generated by the light. The front side windows have to be more than twenty percent reflective. The back side windows must not be more than twenty percent reflective as well.

Virginia has other rules and regulations for the tinting of windows. The restricted colors are red, amber, and yellow. These colors are not legal in the state of Virginia, as well as many other states. Dual side mirrors are required if back window is tinted.

They do not have any sticker requirements or certificate requirements. Even though the state has implemented certain laws, you have to keep in mind that different counties or districts have their own regulations in compliance with the state law. 

The primary concern with heavily tinted or reflective windows on vehicles is that police officers cannot spot drugs or weapons from the outside of the can know that it is safe to approach a vehicle. This is what concerns the police for the most part. The tint laws are just for safety reasons, as most people with tinted windows are not really trying to hide anything.

However, the risk of traffic tickets and fines for window tint are still there.
You can be fined up to $50.00. The first time is classified as a Class three misdemeanor.

It really depends on the city on how much the police enforce the laws. Some say Richmond, Norfolk, and other big cities often do not have the time to worry about window tint in their city.  However, other friends tell me the opposite.

I guess it depends on the person. Either way, there are many good tint shops in Richmond as well as Norfolk Virginia.

So if you are going to get car tint in Virginia, be sure to research the above tint laws before getting your windows done. Be advised there is always some risk in window tinting, but overall the benefits are really cool!