Is 15% Window Tint Legal in Rhode Island After the 2026 Law Changes?

No, Rhode Island prohibits 15% window tint as it fails to meet the state’s 70% light transmittance requirement for passenger vehicles. The Rhode Island State Police enforce this under §31-23-37 of the General Laws, with non-compliance risking fines up to $250. Local municipalities lack authority to override state standards, and 2026 compliance audits will tighten enforcement for commercial fleets.

Key Regulations for 15% Window Tint in Rhode Island

  • Light transmittance threshold: All windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through; 15% tint falls 55% below this limit.
  • Medical exemptions: Only the Division of Motor Vehicles may approve variances for documented medical conditions, requiring prior written authorization.
  • Enforcement scope: State troopers and municipal police conduct roadside inspections, with penalties applied per vehicle, not per window.