Maryland tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 35% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | 35% |
| Rear window | 35% |
| Windshield | Above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches |
| Reflectivity | Check statute |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | SUVs, vans and trucks: 35% applies to front side windows only |
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 Maryland?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Maryland. 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 | Not legal | Not legal |
| 15% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 20% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 35% | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed |
| 50% | Legal | Legal | Legal |
| 70% | Legal | Legal | Legal |
'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: 45% film or lighter
- Rear window: 45% film or lighter
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
Citation plus a safety equipment repair order.
Medical exemptions
A physician's certification in the format required by the Maryland State Police, valid up to 2 years (or longer for permanent conditions). Keep it in the vehicle.
Law history
- : Two-year limit removed for medical exemptions covering permanent conditions.
The law
Maryland's tint rules are set by Md. Code, Transp. § 22-406. 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 Maryland?
On a sedan, front side windows: 35%. Back side windows: 35%. Rear window: 35%.
Is 20% tint legal in Maryland?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Maryland?
Front: Likely too dark once installed. Back: Likely too dark once installed. Rear: Likely too dark once installed. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Maryland?
Above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Maryland?
SUVs, vans and trucks: 35% applies to front side windows only
What is the fine for illegal tint in Maryland?
Citation plus a safety equipment repair order.
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Maryland?
A physician's certification in the format required by the Maryland State Police, valid up to 2 years (or longer for permanent conditions). Keep it in the vehicle.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: