Washington Window Tinting Laws

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David Lawrence

As you navigate the Evergreen State’s roads, you may find yourself pondering the wisdom of the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles, who once said, “Look and you shall find what you are looking for.” In this case, you’re probably looking for clarity on Washington’s window tinting laws. Well, you’re in luck.

The state has strict regulations in place to guarantee your vehicle’s tinted windows don’t compromise your visibility or the safety of others on the road. But what exactly do these laws entail, and how can you certify you’re compliant? The answers are just ahead, waiting to be uncovered.

Washington Window Tinting Laws

Window Tint Darkness in Washington

When it pertains to window tint darkness in Washington, there are specific regulations you need to be aware of to certify adherence with state law.

The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage measures the amount of visible light allowed to pass through the combination of film and window.

For front side windows, you’re required to allow more than 24% of light in, while back side windows and the rear window must also allow more than 24% of light in. This guarantees you can see out and reduce glare.

On the windshield, non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches, but it can’t reflect incoming light.

Washington window tint rules vary between sedans and SUVs/vans, so make certain you comply with Washington State law and its 3% variance on light meter readings for window tint darkness.

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Window Tint Reflection in Washington

As you consider window tint reflection in Washington, you’ll want to guarantee your vehicle’s tint doesn’t exceed the state’s allowed reflectivity levels.

The Washington State laws dictate that the window tint reflection shouldn’t be more than 35% reflective on the windshield and front side windows. This means that at least 65% of visible light must pass through the tint.

It’s essential to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties and certify road safety. Failure to adhere to these laws may result in fines and even vehicle impoundment.

Verify you choose a window tint that meets the state’s reflectivity standards to avoid any issues with law enforcement.

Washington Window Tint Rules

In Washington, specific guidelines govern window tinting to guarantee road safety and compliance with state regulations.

You’re allowed to tint your windshield’s top 6 inches with non-reflective tint, but your front side windows must have a visible light transmission (VLT) of more than 24%.

The same applies to your back side windows and rear window.

Washington law prohibits certain tint colors, including yellow, red, and amber, as well as tints with a mirror-like finish or those that are sprayed on.

Additionally, manufacturers must certify the film they sell in the state, and a sticker is required on your driver’s side window.

Dual side mirrors are also required if you tint your back window.

Visible Light Transmission Requirements

In terms of visible light transmission (VLT) requirements in Washington, you’ll need to follow specific guidelines for your vehicle type.

For sedans, you’re required to have front side windows that allow more than 24% of light in, while back side windows and rear windows must also allow more than 24% of light in.

However, if you own a van or SUV, the VLT requirements differ, with front side windows requiring more than 24% of light in, and back side windows and rear windows having no specific limit in regards to.

VLT Requirements for Sedans

You’re likely wondering about the VLT requirements for sedans in Washington State.

In regards to sedans, the front side windows must allow more than 24% of light to pass through, as measured by the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage.

The same applies to the back side windows and rear window.

In terms of the windshield, it can have a non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches, but the rest can’t be tinted.

Keep in mind that Washington State law allows a 3% variance on light meter readings to account for variations in tint measurement.

The VLT percentage measures the amount of visible light that passes through a window, with most factory glass having a VLT of around 70%.

VLT Requirements for SUVs

Most SUV owners in Washington State want to know the VLT requirements for their vehicles.

You’re likely wondering what’s allowed and what’s not. In regards to SUVs, the rules are slightly different from sedans.

  • The front side windows must have a minimum VLT of 24% to guarantee sufficient visible light transmission.
  • The back side windows and rear window can have any VLT, but the film mustn’t be mirrored or reflective.
  • The tinting laws in Washington require that you have a sticker on the driver’s side window to certify the film’s compliance with state regulations.
  • Remember, it’s essential to check with local authorities or a licensed window tinting professional to verify you’re meeting the state’s VLT requirements.

Tinting Placement and Colors

During the window tinting process, one crucial decision you’ll face is where to place the tint and what color to choose. You must guarantee that your window tint complies with Washington state law.

WindowTint Color Restrictions
Front windshieldNo tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line
Side windowsTint colors restricted to neutral, amber, and yellow
Rear windowNo restrictions on tint colors
Side mirrorsNo tint allowed on side mirrors, certified by the state law to prevent reflections

Medical Exemptions and Exceptions

Washington’s window tinting regulations are designed to guarantee safety on the roads, but they also provide allowances for individuals with certain medical conditions.

You may be eligible for a medical exemption if you have a condition that requires special tint. Washington allows medical exemptions for special circumstances, and you can apply for an exemption through the Department of Licensing.

  • Washington allows medical exemptions for individuals with severe light sensitivity or other conditions that require special tint.
  • Exceptions for special tint are granted on a case-by-case basis, so you’ll need to provide documentation from a medical professional.
  • Window: Must allow at least 70% of visible light to pass through, even with the special tint.
  • Side windows: Must allow at least 40% of visible light to pass through, and you’ll need dual side mirrors to certify safe driving.

WikipediaState website

Tint Law References

Revised Code of Washington section 46.37.430: Safety glazing – sunscreening or coloring

Car Window Tinting Laws By State

Click on the state you’re interested in for a complete guide to its tint laws and regulations. If you spot any errors, let us know through our contact page.

StateFront Side WindowsBack Side WindowsRear WindowsWindshield
Alabama32%32%32%6 inches
Alaska70%40%30%5 inches
Arizona33%ANYANYtinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Arkansas25%25%10%5 inches
California70%ANYANY4 inches
Colorado27%27%27%4 inches
Connecticut35%35%ANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Delaware70%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Florida28%15%15%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Georgia32%32%32%6 inches
Hawaii35%35%35%Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield
Idaho35%20%20%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Illinois35%35%35%6 inches
Indiana30%30%30%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Iowa70%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Kansas35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Kentucky35%18%18%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Louisiana40%25%12%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Maine35%35%35%top 4 inches
Maryland35%35%35%top 5 inches
Massachusetts35%35%35%top 6 inches
Michigan35%ANYANYtop4 inches
Minnesota50%50%50%Top 6 inches
Mississippi28%28%28%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 5 inches
Missouri35%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Montana24%14%14%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Nebraska24%20%20%top 6 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Nevada35%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
New Hampshire35%35%35%Allowed for the manufacturer’s AS-1 line
New JerseyIllegalANYANYTop 6 inches
New Mexico20%20%20%5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
New York70%70%70%top 6 inches
North Carolina35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
North Dakota50%ANYANYTop 6 inches
Ohio50%ANYANYTop 5 inches
Oklahoma25%ANYANY5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Oregon35%35%35%Top 6 inches
Pennsylvania70%70%70%Top 3 inches
Rhode Island70%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
South Carolina27%27%27%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
South Dakota35%20%20%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Tennessee35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Texas25%25%25%5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Utah43%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 4 inches
Vermont70%ANYANYILLEGAL
Virginia50%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Washington24%24%24%Top 6 inches
West Virginia35%35%35%Top 5 inches
Wisconsin50%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Wyoming28%28%28%Top 5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
About the author
David Lawrence
David grew up among mechanics and off-road enthusiasts, gaining deep knowledge in car mods, off-roading techniques, and automotive engineering, making him a trusted 4x4 expert.

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