Can a New Car Be Licensed After Window Tinting?
3 Answers
Whether a new car can be licensed after window tinting mainly depends on whether the installed solar film meets the specified standards. Currently, the vehicle management departments primarily refer to the technical requirements for motor vehicle operational safety. The driver's compartment must ensure the driver's forward and lateral visibility. The visible light transmittance of the front windshield and other glass areas in the driver's line of sight must not be less than 70%, and no mirror-reflective sunshade film is allowed on any window glass. Window tinting involves applying a thin film to the front and rear windshields, side windows, and sunroof, and this film is also known as solar film or heat-insulating film.
I think there might be some issues with registering a new car after applying window tinting, especially if you're in a hurry to get the license plate without first understanding the requirements. During registration, the DMV takes photos to verify the vehicle's original appearance. If the tinting changes the exterior color or the glass's light transmittance, they may require you to remove the film before passing the inspection. I've seen a friend fail the vision test after applying dark tint, delaying the process for several days before they could fix it. It's advisable to check with the tinting shop or the local DMV for specific regulations before applying the film, as rules vary by location. Additionally, it's best to choose standard transparent film and avoid flashy patterns that might obstruct the license plate area. For safety, most car owners recommend completing the registration process before applying the film—it saves time, effort, and money.
I've had the experience of getting a new car tinted, and I was a bit worried about whether I could get it licensed smoothly after the tinting. When the DMV inspects the vehicle, they look at its factory condition. If the tint changes the appearance or affects the clarity of the glass, it will be considered a modification and won't pass. Last time, because the front windshield had an anti-glare film that was too dark, the inspector said the light transmittance didn't meet the standard and I had to redo it. My advice is not to rush into tinting; first, consult the policies clearly. Choose high-quality film to ensure no safety hazards, such as affecting visibility or license plate recognition. In short, it's more prudent to get the car tinted after completing all the new car procedures to avoid unnecessary hassle and extra costs.
