If you’ve ever walked past a police car flashing a light and heard the word “tint” yelled across the road, you know the feeling – panic, confusion, and a fast‑forward to the DMV. South Carolina takes window tint seriously, but the rules aren’t rocket science. You just need to know the limits, why officers pull you over, and what to do when the ticket lands on your windshield.
South Carolina’s tint rules focus on how much light can pass through the glass, measured as a percentage. For passenger cars the front side windows (driver and passenger) must let in at least 70% of visible light. The rear side windows and back glass can be darker, but they still need a clear view from inside the car.
Typical mistakes that trigger a ticket:
Police often spot a tint violation during a traffic stop, a routine checkpoint, or a vehicle inspection. The officer will shine a flashlight inside the car and compare the tint to the legal limits. If it looks too dark, they’ll write a ticket on the spot.
First, stay calm. The ticket will list the fine amount and a deadline to pay or contest. In SC, the fine typically ranges from $25 to $150, plus any court costs if you choose to fight it.
Paying the Ticket – If you don’t mind paying, follow the instructions on the ticket. You can usually pay online, by mail, or in person at the clerk’s office. Paying is the fastest way to avoid extra fees.
Contesting the Ticket – If you think the officer made a mistake, gather evidence before your court date. Bring the original tint receipt, the film’s VLT rating, and photos of the windows. You can also ask a professional installer to measure the tint with a light meter and provide a written report.
Fixing the Violation – Even if you pay, you’ll likely need to replace the illegal film to stay compliant. Look for a reputable shop that offers *legal* tint services. Ask them to install a film that meets the 70% front‑window rule and to place the proper VLT sticker on each window.
Finally, keep the new tint documentation in your glove box. It’s useful if you ever get pulled over again, and it shows the DMV that you corrected the issue.
Bottom line: Stay within the 70% front‑window limit, keep the VLT stickers visible, and you’ll avoid most tint tickets. If you do get one, pay it promptly or come prepared with solid proof to contest it. Your car can stay stylish and legal without breaking the bank.
Find out exactly how much a tint ticket costs in South Carolina, details about window tint laws, penalty amounts, exceptions, and tips to avoid fines.