Is Window Tinting Legal in North Dakota? (2026)
Partially — Window Tinting is legal with restrictions in North Dakota as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: A recent bill was signed into law allowing for darker window tints on front side windows. A petition to remove all restrictions did not get enough signatures for the 2026 ballot.
Quick Answer
North Dakota Century Code §39-21-41 limits window tinting to 50% VLT on front side windows and 35% on rear side and back windows. Reflective tinting is prohibited. Medical exemptions are allowed with proper documentation.
What the Law Says
North Dakota law requires all windows to have a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) of at least 50%.
— North Dakota Century Code §39-21-41
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Tint Limits (VLT %) | Possession of vehicles with illegal tint is allowed but may lead to citations if operated. |
| Medical Exemptions | Sale of non-compliant tint films is restricted. |
| Fix-It Ticket / Fine | Fines up to $100 and mandatory removal orders. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A recent bill was signed into law allowing for darker window tints on front side windows. A petition to remove all restrictions did not get enough signatures for the 2026 ballot.
Enforcement Reality
A violation is an infraction with a small fine, around 0. Enforcement is not always strict, and some drivers choose to pay the fine annually rather than remove the tint.
A common mistake is having front side windows with less than 50% VLT. Tinting the windshield below the AS-1 line is also a violation.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across North Dakota. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Window Tinting in North Dakota
What Happens If You Get Pulled Over With Window Tinting in North Dakota?
North Dakota restricts window tinting with specific conditions. If you're pulled over and you're outside those conditions — wrong amount, wrong location, missing permit — you're in the same position as someone in a state where it's fully illegal. Know the exact restrictions before you drive.
Bottom Line
Window Tinting is legal with restrictions in North Dakota. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
North Dakota vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, tinting car windows is fully legal in 18 states, restricted in 32, and illegal in 0. North Dakota falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive North Dakota Legal Guides
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