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I know when you go to a different state to visit you have to abide by their rules, but I do have a question.
I know Florida does not have front license plates so if you go to a state that requires both front and back they can't compel you to get a front plate.
I know states like Virginia have rules where you can not use a radar detector there.
But my question is about window tinting. If a state has a rule that they do not allow dark window tints does an out of state vehicle not registered in that state have to abide by that rule?
There is "portability", or reciprocity. Any car that is legal in the state of its registration is considered to be legal in any state. Not sure, but I think it is protected by the Interstate Commerce Clause, that prohibits a state from impeding a person with federal constitutional protection from crossing a state line to pursue happiness.. This right would expire when you are deemed to have become a bona-fide resident of the new state, when you'd be required to change your registration to the new state, and comply with its regulations.
Window tinting falls into something of a gray area, where it is considered to be an optional feature of the car, not factory stock that is subject to federal standards and mandatory in all states.
No problem with tinting if it is legal in the state of vehicle registration. NO problem with not having a front plate if your state does not issue one. No problem with a radar detector in most states; might want to check that one before traveling, last I knew it was VA and DC. Many states have laws against use of a radar detector in a commercial vehicle.
There is a difference between having it installed, and using it.
You out-of-state car can be equipped with a radar detector, but it may be illegal to turn it on and use it within states that prohibit it. Similarly, off-road lighting is permitted on a street-legal vehicle, but the law can prohibit switching it on while on the road.
Take a look at this you better check with major cities laws also not just state laws.
Since April of 2012, the city of Chicago has superseded the State of IL law that currently allows for front tinted windows, for any car registered in the city or NOT that is parked on a public street in Chicago city limits, ANY level of tint on the front windows on either side of the driver is illegal and punishable by a $250 fine PER INCIDENT, as long as the condition remains.
There is a difference between having it installed, and using it.
You out-of-state car can be equipped with a radar detector, but it may be illegal to turn it on and use it within states that prohibit it. Similarly, off-road lighting is permitted on a street-legal vehicle, but the law can prohibit switching it on while on the road.
I think in VA you are supposed to keep it in your trunk while you drive their roads, I once read that in DC you are not allowed to have it in your car at all.
I think It depends. If you are driving through they won't bother you. If you are moving to an area and they pull you over and find out you live and work in the state they will ticket you then.
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