Hawaii Window Tint Law
Hawaii’s window tint law permits a non-reflective tint on the top four inches of the windshield. All other window tints must let through at least 35% of light.
Written by R.E. Fulton
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
Hawaii’s window tint law permits non-reflective tints with at least 70% VLT on the top four inches of a vehicle’s windshield, as well as tints with at least 35% VLT on the front and rear side windows and rear windshields. For SUVs and vans, any tint darkness is permitted on rear side windows and rear windshields.
Many drivers choose to tint their windows in order to enhance their car’s appearance and filter out distracting sunlight. In
Hawaii
, which averages up to 271 days of sunshine per year, tinted windows can be a lifesaver—but if your window tint is too dark, it could limit visibility and lead to accidents. To ensure safety, most states set limits on window tinting. Check to see if your tinted windows are in compliance with Hawaii state law using this guide compiled by
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What is the visible light transmission percentage?
Every state has its own legal limit for visible light transmission percentage, or VLT. This refers to the amount of light that can pass through a tinted window. Windows with a higher VLT allow more light into the vehicle.
Let’s take an example. A 5% VLT is sometimes referred to as “limo tint” because limousines have very heavily tinted windows to permit greater privacy for passengers. These windows allow just 5% of visible light to pass through the film. By contrast, windows with a 75% VLT would let in 75% of the light.
What is the Hawaii window tint law?
The Hawaii window tint law enacted in 1989 permits the following levels of tint for the windows of passenger vehicles:
- Front windshield: Non-reflective tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield
- Front seat side windows: Minimum 35% VLT
- Back seat side windows: Minimum 35% VLT for sedans; no limit for vans and SUVs
- Rear window: Minimum 35% VLT for sedans; no limit for vans and SUVs
You may select tint in any color, and you are not required to display a sticker to identify legal tinting. However, Hawaii requires window tint installers to issue a certificate of compliance to the customer, which must be stored in the vehicle at all times.
Key Takeaway If you drive with tinted windows in Hawaii, make sure to keep your certificate of compliance with your proof of insurance and registration.
Medical exemptions
Hawaii does not offer medical exemptions for darker window tints.
Penalties for violating the window tint law
Vehicle owners pulled over for noncompliance with Hawaii window tint law can be fined between $250 and $500. The fines for business owners are $500 to $1,000.
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FAQs
How much does it cost to tint windows?
It generally costs between $150 and $500 to tint windows, depending on the vehicle, the number of windows being tinted, and the shop doing the work.
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