Kentucky Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
Kentucky VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
AS-1 line
Front Side
35%
VLT minimum
Back Side
18%
VLT minimum
Rear
18%
VLT minimum
Kentucky measures film VLT. Film cert required. Side mirrors required if rear tinted.
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Window tint in Kentucky
Kentucky allows 35% on front sides which is in the more lenient range, and SUV and truck owners can go very dark in the rear at just 8% minimum. Kentucky measures film VLT rather than combined glass-plus-film, which works in your favor since the measurement is less strict in practice. SUV owners especially get a lot of flexibility here with the rear glass essentially open territory.
How Kentucky compares
| State | Front | Back | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 35% | 18% | 18% |
| Indiana | 30% | 30% | 30% |
| Ohio | 50% | Any | Any |
| West Virginia | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Virginia | 50% | 35% | 35% |
| Tennessee | 35% | 35% | 35% |
Tint ticket costs in Kentucky
First Offense
$143
Repeat Offense
$143+ per offense
Medical exemptions in Kentucky
Physician certification required specifying medical condition and recommended VLT. Allows darker front side tint. Must carry documentation.
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Tint laws change frequently. Always verify current regulations with a certified installer or your local DMV before making any decisions. Car Editor is not responsible for any fines, penalties, or legal issues resulting from the use of this information.
Nearby States
Driving across state lines? Check neighboring tint laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal window tint in Kentucky?
Front side windows need a minimum of 35% VLT. Back side windows require 18% VLT, and the rear window requires 18% VLT. Kentucky measures film VLT. Film cert required. Side mirrors required if rear tinted.
How much is a tint ticket in Kentucky?
A first offense is typically $143. Repeat offenses can cost $143+ per offense. Fix-it tickets are available, giving you time to remove or replace the film.
What is combined VLT and why does it matter?
Your car's factory glass already blocks some light (usually around 70-80% VLT). When you add tint film, the combined VLT is lower than the film alone. For example, 35% film on 75% factory glass gives you about 26% combined VLT. The calculator above does this math for you.
Can I preview tint on my car before installing?
Yes. Car Editor's AI tint simulator lets you upload a photo of your car and see any tint level applied to it in seconds. You can try different VLT percentages on your actual vehicle before committing.