Do Nc Car Inspections Charge For Checking Window Tint?
If you're a car owner in North Carolina, you're likely aware of the state's strict laws regulating window tinting. The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) enforces these laws through mandatory vehicle inspections, which must be completed annually for all registered vehicles. But if you're wondering whether NC car inspections charge for checking window tint, the answer is not straightforward.
What are North Carolina's Window Tint Laws?
Before we dive into the question of inspection fees, it's important to understand the regulations surrounding window tinting in North Carolina. The state's laws dictate how much visible light can pass through the windows of a car, measured as a percentage known as Visible Light Transmission (VLT).
For passenger cars, the front windshield must allow at least 35% of outside light to pass through, while the front side windows must allow at least 35% or more, depending on the age of the vehicle. Rear side and back windows can be tinted to any degree, as long as the car has side mirrors that provide a view behind the vehicle.
Violations of these laws can result in fines and even the loss of driving privileges, so it's important to ensure your vehicle is in compliance. But what about the cost of inspections?
NC Inspection Fees
North Carolina law mandates that all registered vehicles undergo an annual safety inspection, which includes checks for a variety of issues such as brakes, lights, and emissions. However, the state does not set a specific fee for these inspections, instead leaving it up to individual inspection stations to determine their own pricing.
According to the NC DMV, the maximum fee for a safety inspection is $30, but many stations charge less than this amount. It's important to note that this fee is separate from any repairs or maintenance required to bring the vehicle into compliance with state laws.
Window Tint Inspections
So, where does window tinting fit into this equation? While North Carolina law does require inspections for window tinting, there is no additional fee for this service. Instead, the cost of a window tint inspection is typically included in the overall fee charged by the inspection station for the safety inspection.
That being said, it's important to choose an inspection station that is equipped to properly test your vehicle's window tinting. Some stations may not have the necessary equipment, or may not be trained to perform these inspections accurately. In these cases, you may need to seek out a specialized tinting shop or other facility that can provide the service.
Conclusion
So, to answer the question of whether NC car inspections charge for checking window tint, the answer is no - at least not directly. The cost of a window tint inspection is typically included in the overall fee for a safety inspection, which varies by station but is capped at $30 by state law.
It's important to ensure your vehicle's window tinting is in compliance with North Carolina law to avoid fines and other penalties. When choosing an inspection station, look for one that is equipped to properly test your window tinting and that has a good reputation for accuracy and fairness.
FAQ
Are there any exemptions to North Carolina's window tint laws?
Yes. Vehicles used by law enforcement, emergency vehicles, and certain medical transport vehicles are exempt from the state's window tinting regulations. Additionally, vehicles with medical exemptions may be allowed to have darker tinting on the front side windows.
What happens if my vehicle fails a window tint inspection?
If your vehicle's window tinting is found to be out of compliance with North Carolina law, you will need to have it removed or replaced to pass the inspection. Some inspection stations may offer repair or removal services, but these will likely come at an additional cost.
Can I be pulled over for window tint violations?
Yes. Law enforcement officers in North Carolina are authorized to pull over vehicles that appear to have window tinting that is too dark or otherwise out of compliance with state regulations. If you are pulled over for this reason, you may be subject to fines and other penalties.
Can I get a ticket for window tint violations during a routine traffic stop?
Yes. If an officer determines that your vehicle's window tinting is out of compliance with North Carolina law during a traffic stop, you may be issued a citation or ticket. It's important to ensure your vehicle's tinting is in compliance to avoid these penalties.