North Dakota law permits a maximum of 35 percent visible light transmission (VLT) on the front side windows and 5 percent VLT on the rear side and back windows for passenger‑car drivers in 2026. Tint that exceeds these limits, or any tint without the state‑approved certification sticker, is illegal and can result in fines, mandatory removal, and possible points on your driver’s license.
Front Side Window Requirements
The front driver and passenger windows must allow at least 35 percent of outside light to pass through. This threshold is measured with a calibrated tint meter and expressed as VLT. A window that shows 40 percent VLT or higher is compliant. The law also mandates that an automotive safety glass label bearing the manufacturer’s VLT rating be visible from the interior.
Rear Side and Back Window Limits
North Dakota is stricter on the rear side and rear windows: they must transmit no more than 5 percent of visible light. This essentially means a dark, almost opaque tint is permissible, provided the windshield and front side windows meet their separate standards. The rear window may not be tinted beyond the 5 percent limit even if a medical exemption applies.
Medical Exemptions
Drivers who require darker tint for a documented medical condition (e.g., photosensitivity, certain eye disorders) can apply for a medical exemption. The exemption must be issued by a licensed physician, filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles, and displayed on a permanent, clearly visible sticker inside the vehicle. The exemption overrides the VLT numbers but does not exempt the driver from maintaining a clean windshield and front windows.
Enforcement and Penalties
Law enforcement officers use portable tint meters during traffic stops. If a vehicle fails the VLT test, the officer issues a citation on the spot. Penalties in 2026 range from a $115 fine for a first offense to $250 for repeat violations, plus possible removal of the non‑compliant film at the driver’s expense. Accumulating two or more tint citations within a 12‑month period can add a point to the driver’s record.
Verifying Compliance
Before purchasing a tint film, ask the installer for a North Dakota‑approved certification sticker that includes the VLT percentage. After installation, have the film measured with a calibrated meter and retain the receipt. Many reputable shops provide a written guarantee that the tint meets state standards, which can be critical if you are stopped.
What is the exact VLT limit for front side windows in North Dakota?
Front driver and passenger windows must allow a minimum of 35 percent visible light transmission.
Can I use a darker tint on the rear window if I have a medical condition?
Yes, a physician‑signed medical exemption permits any VLT on rear windows, but the exemption sticker must be displayed inside the vehicle.
How do I know if my tint complies without a meter?
Ask the installer for a certification sticker that states the VLT and keep the documentation; reputable installers will also provide a written compliance statement.
What are the fines for a first‑time illegal tint violation?
A first‑time violation carries a $115 fine; repeat offenses increase the fine to $250.
Does the law apply to commercial vehicles and vans?
The same VLT limits apply to passenger‑car classifications. Heavy‑duty trucks and certain commercial vehicles may have different standards, so consult the specific section of the North Dakota Century Code for those classes.