Our Rhode Island window tint laws are valid for 2023. These laws regulate how dark and reflective your car tint may be, but also specify other rules and regulations you need to know about.
| Rhode Island Tint Laws | ||
|---|---|---|
| Sedan | SUV | |
| Front Windshield | AS-1 line | AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | 70% | 70% |
| Back Side Windows | 70% | No restrictions |
| Rear Windshield | 70% | No restrictions |
Last updated on: . Confirmed accurate for 2023.
How dark can your window tint be in Rhode Island?
Window tint darkness is measured by Visible Light Transmission percentage (VLT%). In Rhode Island this refers to the percent of visible light allowed in through both the film and the glass.
See: VLT Chart for darkness examples
Here's exactly how much VLT is allowed on your auto window tint in Rhode Island (RI), categorized by passenger and multi-purpose vehicles.
Tint darkness for passenger vehicles:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Passenger vehicles include sedan, coupe, convertible, station wagon, hardtop and hatchback vehicles.
Tint darkness for multi-purpose vehicles:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Any darkness can be used.
- Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.
Multi-purpose vehicles include SUV, pickups, vans, RVs, and minibuses.
AS-1 line typically extends 4-6 inches parallel to the top of your windshield. AS-1 designation line is typically marked in bottom or top edge of your windshield.
Some state tint laws specify exact number of inches you are allowed to tint on front windshields. Other states define this windscreen area simply as an AS-1 line. Learn more about AS-1 Line.
Federal vehicle ID label found on driver's front door frame will tell you whether your vehicle is classified as passenger or multi purpose vehicle.
How reflective can your window tint be in Rhode Island?
Tinting film may contain metallic elements which help in reflecting incoming light. This reduces glare and heat generated by visible light. Below you can find out how much reflection is permitted on your car window tint film by law in Rhode Island.
Tint reflection for sedans:
- Front Side windows: Current law does not specify any reflectivity.
- Back Side windows: Current law does not specify any reflectivity.
Tint reflection for SUV and vans:
- Front Side windows: Current law does not specify any reflectivity.
- Back Side windows: Current law does not specify any reflectivity.
Learn about Reflective window tint.
Other Rhode Island tinting rules and regulations:
Other laws, rules and regulations in Rhode Island include the following:
- Side Mirrors: No restrictions.
- Restricted Colors: All window tint colors are allowed.
- Certificate Requirements: Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in Rhode Island.
- Sticker Requirements: No sticker to identify legal tinting is required by law.
- Medical Exemption: Rhode Island allows medical exemptions for special tint. For more details about the specific terms of the exemption, consult your state law.
Remember that state tint laws may be interpreted differently by your local law authorities. Get in touch with your county DMV or police department to make sure you are not breaking Rhode Island window tinting laws, rules and regulations.
Our article about Rhode Island tint laws is up to date as of 2023. Last change was made on August 27th, 2022 (approximately 1 year ago).
You can rest assured our legal experts are immediately notified of changes, and will always update this article with latest legislation when required.
Official law sources:
Rhode Island General Laws Chapter 31-23.3: Non-Transparent Windshields and Windows.
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