Rhode Island tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 70% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | 70% |
| Rear window | 70% |
| Windshield | Top 6 inches only |
| Reflectivity | Check statute |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Trucks and multipurpose vehicles: any darkness behind the driver with mirrors on both sides |
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 Rhode Island?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Rhode Island. 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% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 50% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 70% | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed |
'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: Clear or near-clear film (88% or lighter)
- Back side windows: Clear or near-clear film (88% or lighter)
- Rear window: Clear or near-clear film (88% 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
Rhode Island's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.
Medical exemptions
A Rhode Island-licensed physician or optometrist signs an affidavit, and the DMV issues a sticker or certificate. Medical exemptions don't cover the windshield.
The law
Rhode Island's tint rules are set by R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-23.3-2. 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 Rhode Island?
On a sedan, front side windows: 70%. Back side windows: 70%. Rear window: 70%.
Is 20% tint legal in Rhode Island?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Rhode Island?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Rhode Island?
Top 6 inches only
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Rhode Island?
Trucks and multipurpose vehicles: any darkness behind the driver with mirrors on both sides
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Rhode Island?
A Rhode Island-licensed physician or optometrist signs an affidavit, and the DMV issues a sticker or certificate. Medical exemptions don't cover the windshield.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
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