Maine tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 35% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | Any darkness (mirrors on both sides) |
| Rear window | Any darkness (mirrors on both sides) |
| Windshield | Above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches |
| Reflectivity | No reflective film |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Same as cars |
Percentages are the minimum visible light transmission with the film installed, including the factory glass. A lower number means darker tint.
Is 5%, 20%, 35% or 50% tint legal in Maine?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Maine. Factory glass blocks some light, so a film reads darker once it's installed.
| Film rating | Front side windows | Back side windows | Rear window |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5% | Not legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 15% | Not legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 20% | Not legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 35% | Likely too dark once installed | Legal with mirrors on both sides | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 50% | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 70% | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
'Likely too dark once installed' means the film rating meets the limit, but on typical factory glass the combined reading usually falls under it. Meter the window to be sure.
Choosing a film that stays legal
Assume factory side glass passes about 80% of light.
- Front side windows: 45% film or lighter
- Back side windows: Any film
- Rear window: Any film
Factory privacy glass on many SUVs already reads well under 30%, so any film added over it will read darker still. Always meter after the install.
Fines and penalties
Traffic infraction with a fine of at least $100.
Medical exemptions
Apply to the Chief of the State Police for an exemption certificate and show it to officers on request.
Inspection
Vehicles with aftermarket tint need a light transmittance certificate, shown at inspection.
The law
Maine's tint rules are set by 29-A M.R.S. § 1916. Read the source
This page is a reference for drivers and installers, not legal advice. Enforcement can vary by city and county.
Frequently asked questions
How dark can you legally tint your windows in Maine?
On a sedan, front side windows: 35%. Back side windows: Any darkness (mirrors on both sides). Rear window: Any darkness (mirrors on both sides).
Is 20% tint legal in Maine?
Front: Not legal. Back: Legal with mirrors on both sides. Rear: Legal with mirrors on both sides. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Maine?
Front: Likely too dark once installed. Back: Legal with mirrors on both sides. Rear: Legal with mirrors on both sides. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Maine?
Above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Maine?
Same as cars
What is the fine for illegal tint in Maine?
Traffic infraction with a fine of at least $100.
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Maine?
Apply to the Chief of the State Police for an exemption certificate and show it to officers on request.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: