Missouri Tint Laws: Rules and Exceptions

Window tinting is a popular vehicle modification for enhancing privacy, reducing glare, and protecting from harmful UV rays. However, window tinting must comply with state regulations to ensure safety and legal compliance. This article provides a detailed analysis of Missouri's tint laws, citing specific statutes and exploring their implications with practical examples.

Missouri Tint Laws Overview

Missouri's tint laws are outlined under Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 307, Section 173. These laws specify the permissible Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages and other requirements for window tinting on vehicles.

Legal Tint Limits in Missouri

1. Windshield

  • Regulation: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top six inches of the windshield.

  • Purpose: This is to reduce sun glare while ensuring the driver's clear visibility remains, affecting the upper portion of the driver's sight line.

2. Front Side Windows

  • Regulation: The tint on front side windows must allow at least 35% VLT.

  • Example: If a vehicle has a tint film that only allows 20% of light through, it would be illegal in Missouri and the driver could be cited for a violation.

3. Back Side Windows and Rear Window

  • Regulation: Any darkness of tint is permitted on back side windows and the rear window.

  • Purpose: This provides flexibility for privacy and protection from UV rays without impacting the driver's visibility.

Exemptions and Special Cases

1. Medical Exemptions

  • Regulation: Individuals with a medical condition requiring reduced exposure to sunlight can obtain an exemption for darker tints on the front side windows.

  • Process: A physician's prescription stating the medical necessity and specific tint percentage is required, along with a permit issued by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

2. Law Enforcement and Emergency Vehicles

  • Exemption: Police and emergency vehicles are exempt from standard tint laws and may use darker tints for operational security and safety purposes.

Practical Examples and Implications

1. Case Example: Tint Violation

  • Scenario: A driver in St. Louis is pulled over for having a 20% VLT tint on the front side windows, which violates the 35% VLT requirement.

  • Outcome: The driver receives a ticket and is required to remove or adjust the tint to comply with state regulations. Failure to comply could result in further fines and penalties.

2. Case Example: Medical Exemption Application

  • Scenario: A driver with a skin condition requiring protection from UV rays applies for a medical exemption to have darker tints on their front side windows.

  • Outcome: The driver obtains a physician's prescription and presents it to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, which issues the necessary permit. The driver can legally use a darker tint with this permit.

Legal Implications and Enforcement

1. Compliance and Inspections

  • Annual Vehicle Inspections: Vehicles in Missouri must pass annual safety inspections; window tint compliance is checked during these inspections.

  • Law Enforcement: Traffic officers can use tint meters to measure the VLT of a vehicle's windows during traffic stops. Non-compliant tints can lead to citations and fines.

2. Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Fines: Violations of Missouri's tint laws typically result in fines starting around \$75. Repeat offenders may face higher penalties.

  • Correction Notices: Drivers cited for tint violations may receive correction notices requiring them to adjust their tint to meet legal standards within a specified timeframe.

Conclusion

Missouri's tint laws are designed to balance vehicle customization with road safety. Understanding the specific regulations and complying with them is essential for avoiding fines and ensuring safe driving conditions. 

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