Texas Window Tint Laws

Window tinting makes a car look good and helps protect you from the sun. But in Texas, there are laws about how dark your window tint can be. If your tint is too dark, you could get a ticket. In this guide, we will explain Texas window tint laws simply.

What is Window Tint?

Window tint is a thin film that is added to car windows. It helps reduce heat, glare, and UV rays from the sun. Some people use tint for privacy, while others use it for safety. However, each state has rules about how dark your tint can be.

Why Does Texas Have Tint Laws?

The Texas government made these laws for safety. If a car’s windows are too dark, it can be hard for police to see inside. This can be dangerous during traffic stops. Also, very dark tint can make it hard to see the road at night.

Texas Tint Darkness Rules

Texas uses VLT% (Visible Light Transmission) to measure tint. A higher VLT% means more light can pass through, while a lower VLT% means the window is darker.

For Cars (Sedans):

• Windshield: Tint allowed above the AS-1 line (top 5 inches). Must have 25% VLT or higher.
• Front Side Windows: Must let in at least 25% of light.
• Back Side Windows: Any darkness allowed.
• Rear Window: Any darkness is allowed if there are two side mirrors. If not, 25% VLT is required.

For SUVs and Vans:

• Windshield: Same as cars (AS-1 line, 25% VLT or more).
• Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 25% of light.
• Back Side Windows: Any darkness allowed.
• Rear Window: Any darkness allowed with side mirrors; 25% VLT if no mirrors.

Reflective Tint Rules

Some tints have a shiny or reflective surface. In Texas, the tint on front and back side windows cannot be more than 25% reflective. This helps prevent glare that could blind other drivers.

Illegal Tint Colors

Texas does not allow red, blue, or amber tint on the front windshield. These colors can confuse other drivers and emergency responders.

Medical Exemptions

Some people need darker tints for medical reasons. If you have a condition that makes you sensitive to sunlight, you may qualify for a medical exemption. To get this, you need a signed letter from a doctor or optometrist. This letter must:

• Clearly state the name of the driver or passenger.
• Explain why a darker tint is needed.

This letter must be kept in the car at all times and shown to the police if asked.

Penalties for Illegal Tint

Police officers carry tools to measure tint darkness. If your tint is too dark, you can get a ticket. The first fine is usually small (around $20), but if you don’t fix the problem, fines can go up to $200 or more.

How to Check If Your Tint Is Legal

If you are not sure whether your window tint follows Texas laws, you can get it tested. Many auto shops have tools that measure VLT%. If your tint is too dark, you should replace it before getting fined.

Other Texas Tint Rules

There are a few other rules about window tint in Texas:

• Manufacturer Certification: The tint film used on your car must be certified by the manufacturer as legal in Texas.
• Sticker Requirement: You must have a sticker on the driver’s side window that shows your tint is legal.
• Annual Inspection: If your vehicle is registered in Texas, it will be checked for legal tint during its annual inspection.

What to Do If You Get a Tint Ticket

If you receive a ticket for illegal tint, you have a few options:

1. Fix the Tint: Remove or replace the illegal tint and show proof of correction to the court.
2. Pay the Fine: If you do not want to change your tint, you can pay the fine, but you might get more tickets in the future.
3. Get a Medical Exemption: If you qualify, you can present a doctor’s letter to avoid further fines.

Choosing the Right Tint for Your Car

When selecting window tint, it is important to balance style, privacy, and legal requirements. Here are some tips:

• Check the VLT%: Make sure your tint meets Texas state laws.
• Consider Non-Darkening Films: Some clear films block heat and UV rays without making windows darker.
• Ask a Professional: A certified installer can help you choose the right tint and make sure it follows the law.
• Keep Documents Handy: If your tint is legal, keep the certification sticker and any medical exemption paperwork in your car.

FAQs

Q: Can I have a dark tint on my rear windows?
A: Yes, you can have any darkness on the rear and back side windows if your car has two side mirrors.

Q: What happens if my tint is too dark?
A: You may get a ticket. The first fine is small, but repeated offenses can cost more.

Q: Can I use a reflective tint?
A: Yes, but it cannot be more than 25% reflective.

Q: How can I check my tint’s VLT%?
A: Many auto shops have tools to measure tint darkness. You can also ask a professional installer.

Q: Do I need a sticker for my tint?
A: Yes, a legal tint sticker must be placed on the driver’s side window.

Conclusion

Texas has clear rules about window tinting. Knowing these laws can help you avoid fines and make safe choices for your vehicle. If you plan to tint your windows, choose a legal option and always stay within the law.