FMCSR 393.60(b) Windshield Tinting Citation: What Happens Next

No. Across our 13 million inspection records, windshield tinting violations result in an out-of-service order only 1.2% of the time. Out of 670 all-time citations for this code, just 8 trucks were placed out of service. Compare that to the national average OOS rate of 31.4% across all FMCSR codes—this violation is far less likely to sideline your truck. You can typically continue operating while you arrange a fix.

This violation carries a CSA severity weight of 3. The exact point total depends on your inspection history and the 30-day multiplier applied in the agency's CSA formula. A single citation in isolation has minimal impact, but multiple violations within 30 days compound quickly. CSA points stay on your record for 12 months, so the urgency is less about immediate out-of-service risk and more about keeping your safety profile clean over time.

1. Document the citation. Get a copy of the inspection report with the specific tinting issues noted.
2. Schedule repair immediately. Have the unauthorized tint or coating removed so the windshield and front side windows meet legal light transmittance limits.
3. Request re-inspection. Once repaired, ask the inspection authority for a follow-up to clear the violation on your record.
4. Keep proof of compliance. Save receipts and photos of the corrected windows.
5. Review your other systems. Check lighting, wipers, and other glass condition to avoid compounding citations.

It's among the least serious in its category. Our inspection records show unauthorized tinting has been cited 670 times all-time, ranking #828 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes. More frequent peer violations like inoperable required lamps (660,737 citations) and windshield defects (157,894 citations) carry OOS rates of 15.4% and 0.3% respectively. Tinting at 1.2% OOS rate is comparable to lighting device violations at 1.8% but far below general maintenance repairs at 45.3%.

Yes. The FMCSA's DataQs portal allows you to challenge inspection findings on your CSA record. For equipment violations like tinting, contestation typically works best if you can show the measurement was inaccurate or the windows were already compliant at the time of inspection. Submit photos, shop receipts, or technical specifications proving legal transmittance. Tinting is objective and measurable, so clarity and documentation are key to a successful challenge. You have 90 days from the inspection date to file.

Windshield tinting citations have become rare. Our database shows zero citations for this code in the last 12 months and zero in the last 90 days, despite 670 all-time records. This likely reflects either improved compliance or reduced enforcement focus on this particular violation. The last major citation activity ended several years ago. If you're cited today, it signals aggressive window inspections in your area—address it quickly to avoid stacking violations.

Across our inspection records, Freightliners lead with 48 citations, followed by Isuzu trucks at 22 and Hino at 18. Kenworth and Peterbilt each have 17. Ford, Volvo, Utility vehicles, Mack, and Guangdong round out the top 10. The pattern suggests no particular make is immune—tinting violations are found across owner-operators and fleets regardless of equipment. Focus on your own windshield condition rather than your truck's brand.

Our all-time data shows CESAR ERNESTO GONZALEZ HERNANDEZ & INOCENCIO GONZALEZ CARDONA (USDOT 1075663) with 3 citations—the highest among carriers in our database. Western Express Inc, John G Saab, US Xpress Inc, Schmidt's Inc, HTS Construction Inc, The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company, J B Hunt Transport Inc, Cape Cod Express LLC, and N & B Trucking Inc each have 2 citations. This is a sporadic violation across the industry, not concentrated in one fleet.