North Dakota window tint laws
Stricter than most states on front-side windows (10 of 51 jurisdictions require more light).
The legal limits
Will your film pass in North Dakota?
A trooper's meter reads the film and the glass. Factory glass runs about 78% VLT, so net VLT = film × glass — which is why "35% film" can fail a 35% state. Common shades over factory glass:
| Film | Meters at | Front side | Back side | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70% | 54.6% VLT | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| 50% | 39.0% VLT | Fail | Pass | Pass |
| 35% | 27.3% VLT | Fail | Pass | Pass |
| 20% | 15.6% VLT | Fail | Pass | Pass |
| 5% | 3.9% VLT | Fail | Pass | Pass |
Different glass or an odd shade? Run the exact numbers in the tint-law tool — it also emails you if North Dakota's law changes.
Across the state line
Shops near a border tint cars registered in both states. North Dakota front side: 50% VLT min — the neighbors:
North Dakota tint law FAQs
What is the darkest legal tint in North Dakota?
North Dakota sets no VLT floor on back-side or rear windows, so film there can be as dark as you like. Front side windows must still meter at least 50% VLT.
Is 20% tint legal in North Dakota?
A 20% film over factory glass meters about 15.6% VLT. That fails North Dakota's 50% front-side rule and it is legal on the back-side and rear windows.
Does North Dakota allow medical exemptions for darker tint?
Yes — North Dakota allows darker film with a qualifying medical exemption. Keep the exemption paperwork in the vehicle.
Is reflective or mirrored tint legal in North Dakota?
North Dakota permits some reflectivity within state limits — check the current administrative code for the exact percentage before installing mirrored film.
What is the windshield tint rule in North Dakota?
North Dakota allows windshield tint only at the top of the glass: Top 70% strip. Full-windshield film (outside a medical exemption) fails inspection.
Reviewed against state DOT/DPS regulations as of 2025. States amend tint law — verify with the North Dakota authority before installing. This is reference material, not legal advice.
Run a tint shop in North Dakota?
Wraptor quotes tint, wrap, and PPF jobs with the legal limits built in — plus scheduling, deposits, and a CRM that remembers every VIN.