An Overview of the Window Tint Laws in Hawaii
Hawaii’s window tinting laws dictate maximum levels of visible light transmission (VLT) for different types of vehicles and windows. On passenger vehicles for instance, the side and rear windows of SUVs and vans may have a VLT of up to 35% while sedans are limited to 32%. For SUVs and vans, the cars have to have at least 70% on the windshield with a non-reflective tint over the front 29 inches. Sedans however need a minimum of 35% on the windshield with a non-reflective tint over the front 29 inches.
For trucks, SUVs and vans, the front and rear windows can have a maximum tint of 32% VLT, while the windshield has to have a minimum tint of 70% . For multipurpose vehicles, they need a minimum of 35% tint on back and rear side windows and at least 70% tint on the windshield.
Tinting laws regarding trucks, SUVs and vans also carry the same 38% VLT on the windshield as passenger vehicles but have to have a minimum of 35% tint on the front windshield and back and the rear windshield.
The law further states that all vehicles in Hawaii must have their tinting film certified by the manufacturers. Certification of the tinting film usually comes with a sticker that should be placed between the film and glass on the driver’s side window. Note that tinting film done after the initial sale of the vehicle does not require certification stickers on rear windows.
Penalties for Failing to Comply
Failing to adhere to the legal requirements outlined above can result in administrative citations and fines. A violation is considered a petty misdemeanor, which can have serious implications. The fine for a first offense can be up to $200.00, and the fees multiply with the second and third transgressions. An additional disturbing repercussion of violating the Hawaii window tint law is the State Department of Transportation will stop the vehicle from being registered or licensed until the illegal tint is removed. That’s right, the vehicle does not pass inspection or compliance until the illegal tint is removed.
It is important to remember that the law applies to vehicles registered in the State of Hawaii only, not vehicles from other states. Because certain states offer more leeway in their tinting laws, people have their tint removed before arriving in Hawaii. Vehicles from other states typically undergo a full inspection when they arrive in Hawaii. It is not until the inspection for compliance is complete that one knows whether or not a car is in violation of Hawaii tint law.
Medical Exemptions for Tint
Hawaii does contain provisions for medical exemptions concerning window tinting. In ยง286-3.5 (4) Medical window tinted glass for motor vehicles in Hawaii’s hard-copy statutes it lays out what is required for a person to receive a medical exception from the window tint law.
When applying for the exemption, you should provide proof, in writing, on letterhead signed by the physician or surgeon with the following information.
You must then provide this information to the Director of Finance of each county. Not mentioned in the law, but common sense, is that you keep a copy of the letter on you at all times. The exemption applies only to the specific windows that you are requesting the exemption on, whether driver, passenger and/or rear. This exemption request is separate from the tinted window request that must be passed to the county director of finance. Again, as always keep a copy of the exemption letter with you in your car at all times.
Advantages of Legal Window Tint
In addition to two factors that substantially enhance the comfort, safety, and enjoyment of car and truck rides, window tinting provides UV protection.
Auto windows tinted according to Hawaii law keep a majority of the sun’s harmful UV rays out of the car and off your skin. These rays are a leading cause of dangerous skin cancers. In fact, 53% of all skin cancer cases in the U.S. occur on the left side of the face because that’s the side that’s typically exposed to the sun when someone is behind the wheel. Hawaii’s regulations allow protection from nearly three-quarters (70%) of these harmful rays. The 95% visible light transmission minimum for front side windows also provides substantial protection from UV rays. It also provides additional benefits. First, according to some studies, while the risk of skin cancer increases by 50% for every 1% increase in solar UV exposure, the risk of developing cataracts and other eye disorders is increased by 20% and 10%, respectively, for every 1% increase in solar UV exposure. Hawaii’s regulations thus provide for a 95% visible light transmission minimum which may ameliorate adverse effects on vision ranging from summer "snow blindness" to debilitating cataracts. Second , according to data compiled by the American Academy of Dermatology, 90-95% of seniors develop skin damage and skin cancer defects on their hands because these appendages are most commonly exposed to the elements, including UV radiation. Hawaii’s regulations provide for a 30% minimum (or 35% if combined) window tint which affords most drivers a 73% of windshield UV protection regardless of hand position. Additionally, tinted windows offer additional privacy for the driver and vehicle occupants only if they are tinted in accordance with local laws. Despite online marketing and mass retail sales that focus on "privacy tint" as a feature, even as 5% "limo black," tinted windows will only offer privacy if they comply with local laws. Only local laws should be relied on for determining tint. National laws vary, state laws differ, and even city ordinances within the same state can be different. Most online sites for window tinting film for car and truck windows deal with national and state laws, but not local. Automotive window tinting should not be obtained from any seller who cannot tell you the local law for your vehicle’s registration.
What Type of Tint to get on your Vehicle in Hawaii
When it comes to tinting the windows of your vehicle in Hawaii, you want to make sure you choose a shade that is both comfortable and compliant with the law. Hawaii has some of the strictest tint laws in the country, and these laws can vary based on whether you’re tinting the front windshield, side windows or rear windshield, as well as how many windows you’re tinting.
As you go about choosing the right tint for your vehicle, it’s a good idea to consult with a tinter who understands the local laws and can help you get exactly what you need while remaining in compliance.
Front windshield
The tint on your front windshield cannot be darker than 35 percent. Even more importantly, no tint is allowed on the top 29 percent of the windshield (exception is made for a factory tint). You are also allowed to add a clear tint tint strip to your windshield , but it must be no wider than five inches. This strip may not extend past the AS-1 line or on any vehicles that don’t have this line. Stick-on strips are not permitted, but stitched strips are.
Front side windows
As for the front side windows, they can be tinted a maximum of 35 percent.
Back side windows
The rear side windows have no tint restrictions.
Back windshield
As with the front side windows, tint on the back windshield is allowed with no restrictions.
Although window tints have become highly popular and more sophisticated than ever, authorities still take violations of state tint laws very seriously. If you’re thinking of tinting your car, don’t let that stop you. Just make sure you’re getting it done legally.
