Massachusetts Window Tint Laws 2026
Everything you need to know about legal window tint in MA — VLT percentages, fines, exemptions, and the best options that keep you legal and protected.
Quick Reference: MA Tint Laws at a Glance
Maximum reflectivity allowed: 35% on all windows. Applies to all vehicle types equally.
Understanding Massachusetts Tint Laws
Massachusetts has some of the stricter window tint regulations in the country. The state requires a minimum of 35% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) on most windows, meaning at least 35% of outside light must pass through the glass. Unlike many other states, Massachusetts applies the same rules to both sedans and SUVs.
What Does VLT Mean?
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission — the percentage of visible light that passes through your window tint. A higher number means more light passes through (lighter tint), while a lower number means less light (darker tint). In Massachusetts, your tint must allow at least 35% of light through.
Penalties for Illegal Tint in Massachusetts
- ⚠️Fines up to $250 per offense
- ⚠️Vehicle will fail state inspection
- ⚠️Repeated violations may result in license suspension
- ⚠️Must remove illegal tint to pass inspection
Medical Exemptions
Massachusetts does allow medical exemptions for darker window tint. If you have a medical condition that requires protection from sunlight (such as lupus, photosensitivity, or certain skin conditions), you can apply for a Tinted Glass Waiver through the Massachusetts RMV. You'll need documentation from your physician.
Apply for a Tinted Glass Waiver on Mass.gov →
Reflectivity Rules
Massachusetts limits window tint reflectivity to 35% maximum on all windows. This means mirrored or highly reflective tints are not legal. Modern ceramic tints like XPEL Prime XR Plus achieve excellent heat rejection without high reflectivity, making them ideal for MA compliance.
Best Legal Window Tint Options for Massachusetts
Just because you're limited to 35% VLT doesn't mean you can't get excellent heat rejection and UV protection. Ceramic window tint technology has made it possible to block most heat while staying 100% legal.
XPEL Prime XR Plus
- ✓Up to 98% infrared heat rejection
- ✓99% UV rejection
- ✓Crystal clear visibility at 35% VLT
- ✓No signal interference
- ✓Lifetime manufacturer warranty
XPEL Prime XR
- ✓Up to 88% infrared heat rejection
- ✓99% UV rejection
- ✓Nano-ceramic technology
- ✓No signal interference
- ✓Lifetime manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal tint percentage in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts requires a minimum of 35% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) on front side, back side, and rear windows. The windshield can only have non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches. This applies to all vehicle types — sedans, SUVs, trucks, and vans.
Is there a difference in tint laws for SUVs and sedans in MA?
No. Unlike many other states, Massachusetts applies the same 35% VLT requirement to all vehicle types. Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, truck, or van, the rules are identical.
What is the fine for illegal window tint in Massachusetts?
Fines can be up to $250 per offense. Your vehicle will also fail its annual state inspection, and repeated violations may lead to license suspension.
Can I get a medical exemption for darker tint?
Yes. You can apply for a Tinted Glass Waiver through the Massachusetts RMV with a physician's recommendation. This is available for conditions like lupus, photosensitivity, or other medical needs requiring UV protection.
How much does legal window tint cost in Massachusetts?
Professional ceramic window tint typically ranges from $250-$800+ depending on vehicle size, window count, and film quality. Premium XPEL ceramic tint with lifetime warranty and 98% infrared heat rejection is the best option for maximizing performance within MA legal limits.
Will ceramic tint help if I can only go to 35% VLT?
Absolutely! Ceramic tint like XPEL Prime XR Plus can reject up to 98% of infrared heat and 99% of UV rays at 35% VLT. You get excellent heat reduction and UV protection while staying 100% MA-compliant. The technology has advanced significantly — you don't need dark tint for great performance.
Can I tint my windshield in Massachusetts?
You can only apply non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches of the windshield (above the AS-1 line). Full windshield tint is not legal in Massachusetts.
Get Legal, High-Performance Window Tint
At AutoSpa Weymouth, we exclusively install XPEL ceramic window tint — the industry's best protection within Massachusetts legal limits. Every installation is guaranteed MA-compliant.
XPEL Certified Installer • Serving South Shore & Greater Boston • Lifetime Warranty