Headlight & Taillight Tint in New York
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in New York. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements.
Verified against primary sources · August 2026
What the law says
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in New York. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements. New York bars using any headlamp unless it is approved by the commissioner or equipped with an approved lens — which is a direct bar on aftermarket tint film and covers. Rear lamps must show red visible at 1,000 feet.
Specific Limits
- Film permitted
- No
- Headlight color
- white
- Taillight color
- red
Exceptions & Exemptions
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law prohibits any colored material or tinting on headlights and taillights that would alter their color or reduce light output
Frequently Asked Questions
Are headlight & taillight tint legal in New York?
What are the exact headlight & taillight tint limits in New York?
Are there exceptions for headlight & taillight tint in New York?
Street-legal headlight & taillight tint picks
Gear that helps you mod without a ticket in New York.
Clear, bright lenses — the fully legal alternative to tinting them.
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