Windshield Laws in Ohio

If you drive a vehicle on the roadways in Ohio, you already know about the numerous traffic laws you are required to follow for safety. In addition to those rules, Ohio also has regulations in place to ensure your vehicle is safe to operate on the roads as well. One area that these rules cover is the windshield. Below, you will discover the windshield laws in Ohio that you must follow to avoid potential fines.

Windshield requirements

Ohio has several requirements concerning the windshield and its associated equipment.

  • All vehicles other than motorized bicycles and motorcycles are required to have a windshield if driven on the roads throughout the state.

  • Windshield wipers that are controlled by the driver and effectively clear the windshield of rain and other types of moisture are required on all vehicles and must be in good condition.

  • Safety glass or safety glazing material is required in the windshield and all windows in the vehicle.

Obstructions

Ohio also has rules concerning obstructions in or around the windshield.

  • Posters, signs and any other nontransparent materials can be placed on or in the windshield.

  • Required stickers must be placed in the lower right corner and can measure no more than four inches by six inches in size.

  • No stickers or certificates may be placed in such a way as to cover the vehicle identification number or render it unreadable when looking at it through the windshield.

  • GPS systems, cameras and other electronic devices are permitted providing they do not affect the driver’s ability to see the roadways and they do not conceal or cover the vehicle identification number.

Window tint

Ohio window tint laws include the following:

  • Tint on the windshield must be non-reflective and allow greater than 70% of the available light to pass through the glass.

  • Tint on the front side windows must allow over 50% of the available light to pass through the glass.

  • Any tint darkness can be used on the back side and rear window.

  • Reflective tint cannot be any more reflective than a typical window.

  • Each window with tint must have a sticker affixed between the glass and the film identifying it as being within the legal limits.

Chips and cracks

Ohio law does not specifically identify sizes and shapes of cracks and chips that are not legal in the state. However, the laws are as follows:

  • Vehicles that are in an unsafe condition or that could pose a danger to others are not permitted on the roadways.

  • Windshields with large cracks, chips or other defects located in front of the driver may be considered unsafe due to vision obstruction.

Violations

In most cases, Ohio allows drivers to show proof that the issue was corrected if issued a citation for failing to comply with the above laws. However, fines of up to $150 may be issued as well.

If your windshield needs to be inspected or your wipers are not working properly, a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, can help you get back on the road safely and quickly so you are driving within the laws.


The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

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