Massachusetts Window Tint Laws
A plain-language summary of the state statute and RMV guidance, with direct links so you can verify the requirements before service.
Quick answer
Massachusetts law permits qualifying treatments on specified side and rear windows when visible light transmittance is at least 35% or total visible light reflectance is no more than 35%. Windshield material is limited to the uppermost six inches and cannot enter the driver's direct forward view. A tinted rear window requires two outside mirrors.
General information only, not legal advice. Rules, exemptions, and enforcement can change; verify your vehicle with the RMV or a qualified inspection professional.
Massachusetts tint rules at a glance
How to read the 35% rule
VLT means visible light transmittance: the percentage of visible light passing through the finished glass-and-film system. A higher VLT number is lighter. Because factory glass already affects the final measurement, a film label by itself does not establish the installed result for every vehicle.
Enforcement and inspection
Chapter 90, Section 9D states that a violation is punishable by a fine of up to $250. It also allows the registrar to suspend an operator's license for up to 90 days after a third or subsequent conviction. The RMV inspection regulation treats noncompliant glazing as a rejection condition. Read the statute and regulation directly before relying on this summary.
Medical waivers
Mass.gov says the RMV may issue a tinted glass waiver for an eligible private passenger vehicle when the owner or listed operator has physician-certified photophobia or photosensitivity. The waiver instructions also state that windshields may not be tinted below the AS-1 line.
Primary sources
These are the government sources used for this guide. They take precedence over this summary.
- Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 90, Section 9D — statutory VLT, reflectance, windshield, mirror, waiver, and penalty language.
- Massachusetts RMV regulations, 540 CMR 4.04 — non-commercial vehicle inspection requirements.
- Mass.gov tinted glass waiver instructions — eligibility, documents, and submission process.
Frequently asked questions
What window tint level does Massachusetts law allow?
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 9D allows qualifying film with visible light transmittance of at least 35% or total visible light reflectance of no more than 35% on specified side and rear windows. The finished glass and film combination should be checked for the specific vehicle.
Can the windshield be tinted in Massachusetts?
The statute permits transparent material only within the uppermost six inches of the windshield, without entering the driver's direct forward viewing area. The RMV regulation refers to the AS-1 line, usually in that uppermost area.
Does a tinted rear window require outside mirrors?
Yes. The Massachusetts statute requires two outside mirrors, one on each side, when the rear window uses the applicable treatment.
Can I request a medical exemption for darker tint?
The Massachusetts RMV accepts tinted glass waiver applications for eligible private passenger vehicles when the owner or listed operator has physician-certified photophobia or photosensitivity. A granted waiver does not permit windshield tint below the AS-1 line.
How much does legal window tint cost?
Cost depends on the vehicle, the windows being treated, the selected film, and installation requirements. AutoSpa Weymouth provides a vehicle-specific quote after reviewing those details.
Discuss tint options for your vehicle
AutoSpa Weymouth can review available LLumar film options, your vehicle's glass, and the coverage you want before providing a quote.