Will Tinted Windows Fail a Delaware Vehicle Safety Check?

If you have tinted windows and are getting ready for a Delaware vehicle safety inspection, you might be worried about passing. Delaware has some of the strictest tint laws in the region. Knowing the exact legal limits before heading to the inspection shop saves you time, money, and possible headaches. Here’s what you need to know if you want to avoid failing your safety check because of window tint.

Delaware’s Legal Window Tint Limits

Delaware law is clear about window tint: every passenger vehicle must let in at least 70% of visible light through the front side windows, back side windows, and rear window. The windshield is even more restrictive. Only non-reflective tint is allowed, and only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, the small label or marking near the top of your windshield. Mirrored or metallic tints are not allowed on any window.

• Front Side Windows: Minimum 70% VLT (Visible Light Transmission)
• Back Side Windows: Minimum 70% VLT
• Rear Window: Minimum 70% VLT
• Windshield: Non-reflective tint only above the AS-1 line
• Reflection: No mirrored or metallic finish allowed

The 70% VLT limit means the tint can only block up to 30% of visible light. If your tint is darker, your vehicle will fail the safety check. This is checked with a meter during inspection. Curious about the details? See the full breakdown at Delaware window tint laws.

Will Tinted Windows Make You Fail Inspection?

Yes, if any window is darker than 70% VLT, your car will fail the Delaware safety inspection. This applies to both factory and aftermarket tint. The inspector uses a light meter to measure the VLT, so there’s no guessing. Even if your tint looks light, if it does not meet the requirement, you’ll be sent away with a rejection notice and will need to fix the problem, usually by removing or replacing the window film, before getting your car re-inspected.

Another reason for failure: any tint on the windshield below the AS-1 line. Many drivers don’t realize that a strip of tint at the top is legal, but anything lower than the AS-1 marking isn’t. Reflective or mirror-like tint on any window is also grounds for an automatic fail.

For a quick look at the darkest legal tint you can use, check darkest legal tint in Delaware.

What Happens If You Fail the Safety Check?

If your tint is too dark or otherwise illegal, you’ll receive a rejection notice at inspection. You must correct the issue and return for a re-test. If you ignore the problem and keep driving, you risk being pulled over by police. Delaware police frequently use tint meters during traffic stops, especially during summer months when illegal tint is more obvious.

The penalties for illegal window tint in Delaware are spelled out in Delaware Code Title 21, §4313. The first offense carries a $57.50 fine. If you’re caught again, the fine increases to a range of $57.50 to $115 for each offense. These fines are per incident, not per window. For more information on fines and enforcement, see tint ticket fines.

Are There Any Legal Exemptions for Medical Needs?

Delaware does allow medical exemptions for window tint. If you have a qualifying medical condition that requires extra protection from sunlight, you can apply for a tint exemption. Common medical reasons include conditions like photophobia, lupus, skin cancer, macular degeneration, and many others. The state keeps a list of all qualifying conditions.

To get an exemption, you (or your doctor) must fill out the official state form, submit it, and wait for approval. The process involves a $250 service fee. Once approved, you get a certificate allowing you to use darker tint on your vehicle. You must always carry the exemption certificate in the car in case you’re stopped by police or questioned during inspection. Want the step-by-step guide? See how to get an exemption or book your application through our service.

Delaware Tint Exemption Details

• Medical exemption applies only to the person with the medical need
• Certificate must be in the vehicle at all times
• Approval takes time, don’t wait until your inspection appointment
• State charges a $250 processing fee for the service

More details about the application and costs are at exemption cost and exemption form.

What If You Already Have Illegal Tint?

If your vehicle already has tint darker than 70% VLT and you do not have a medical exemption, you will need to remove it or replace it with legal film before your safety inspection. Some shops may advertise “factory tint” or “privacy glass,” but if the VLT is too low, you’ll still fail.

If you have a medical need and want to keep your tint, start the exemption application process as soon as possible. Visit Delaware medical exemption overview for a breakdown of requirements and common conditions. If you qualify, you’ll need your doctor’s certification, and you’ll want to have the exemption paperwork on hand before your next inspection. For questions, see the Delaware exemption FAQ.

Tips for Passing Delaware Vehicle Inspection With Tinted Windows

• Check Your Tint Beforehand: Use a tint meter to measure VLT. Many shops offer this as a free service.
• Know Where the AS-1 Line Is: Your windshield must be clear below this line. The marking is usually etched in the glass.
• If in Doubt, Remove It: Better to show up with legal windows than risk failing and having to come back.
• Keep Proof of Exemption Ready: If you have a medical exemption, carry the certificate in your glovebox or with your registration documents.
• Don’t Ignore a Failure: You can’t renew your registration without passing the safety check. Address any tint problems immediately.

For anyone unsure whether their condition qualifies or how to begin the exemption process, you can book your exemption application directly with a local expert.

Summary: Know Before You Go

Delaware is serious about window tint regulations. If you show up for your vehicle safety check with anything darker than 70% VLT, reflective film, or illegal windshield tint, expect to fail. The fines are real, and repeated violations can get expensive. For most drivers, sticking to the 70% VLT standard is the best way to avoid problems. If you have a medical need, the state process is clear but does take time and costs $250. Always have your exemption certificate available if you’re stopped or at inspection. For everything from law summaries to application tips, check our guides on tint laws, exemptions, and common questions.