What Is The Window Tint Law In Texas?
Key Takeaways
- Front-side windows must allow more than 25% VLT.
- Windshield tint allowed only above the AS-1 line.
- Backside and rear windows can be darker with dual side mirrors.
- Highly reflective or colored tints like red and amber are illegal.
- Fines for illegal tinting can reach up to $200.
- Medical exemptions require a form and official approval.
How Dark Can You Tint Your Windows In Texas?
Legal darkness is quantified in VLT (Visible Light Transmittance), which refers to the percentage of light that travels through the window film. Texas legal tint limits are in place to ensure drivers have adequate visibility and safety when using sun protection and heat control film. The following are Texas laws for sedans, SUVs, and vans:
- Windshield: Allowed only above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches, with less than 25% reflection.
- Front Side Windows: Minimum 25% VLT required.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness allowed.
- Rear Window: Any darkness allowed with side outside mirrors, 25% VLT without.
Texas Window Tint Reflection Guidelines
Legal glare reduction films have a reflective layer, a metalized layer, or an anti-glare layer for traffic safety purposes. Texas legal tint limit specifically regulates reflective window tinting on sedans, SUVs, and vans as follows:
- Front Side Windows: Must not be more than 25% reflective.
- Back Side Windows: Must not be more than 25% reflective.
Fines & Penalties For Illegal Window Tint In Texas
Violating Texas window tint laws can lead to costly fines and inspection failures. Here's what you can expect:
- First offense: Fines typically range from $100 to $200
- Repeat offenses: Higher fines may apply, and you could be ordered to remove or replace the illegal tint
- Inspection failure: Vehicles with overly dark or non-compliant tint can be automatically rejected during state inspection
Beyond the financial penalties, illegal tint compromises your safety and can reduce visibility, especially at night. To avoid unnecessary tickets, repairs, or inspection issues, always check Texas tint regulations and work with a trusted, certified installer like Texas Shine Doctor.
Additional Texas Window Tint Laws
In addition to the official regulations, Texas legal tint limit also adds rules that vehicle owners must follow.
- Side Mirrors: If the rear window is tinted, dual side mirrors are needed.
- Restricted Colors: Red, blue, and amber tint colors are not allowed to be used on windshields according to Texas tint laws.
- Certificates: The manufacturers in the state have to certify the film. Check with your dealer if they are dealing in certified film.
- Stickers: A sticker for legal tinting is required between the film & glass on the driver-side window.
- Medical Exceptions: Drivers who have special medical conditions and a valid permit can get permission to tint the windows beyond the prescribed limit. The conditions that qualify for medical exemptions in Texas are: Lupus, Albinism, Severe Burns or Scars, Photosensitivity Disorder, and Porphyria.
Can You Fail Vehicle Inspection Due To Window Tint In Texas?
Yes, your car can fail inspection when the window film is not in compliance with Texas regulations. Common reasons for inspection failure include:
- Tint darker than the legal VLT limit
- Worn adhesive or bubbling film
- Damaged or peeling scratch-resistant coating
- Missing certification sticker
Non-compliant tint can interfere with visibility and safety systems, leading to automatic rejection. To pass inspection and ensure long-term durability, always use certified film installed by a trusted professional like Texas Shine Doctor.
How To Check If Your Window Tint Is Legal In Texas
You can inspect your window tint through VLT measurement, colorimeter, or AS-1 strip inspection. However, if you do not know how or do not have the equipment, hire a professional installer to ensure quality and compliance with Texas window tint laws.
For professional assistance,
book an appointment with Texas Shine Doctor today! We're
the state's trusted car window tint installer, inspection, and security solution professionals.
FAQs
Is it illegal to tint your windshield past prescription with a doctor's note?
No. If you have a valid medical exemption, you may legally tint beyond normal limits.
What if the tint is too dark in Texas?
You may be fined as much as $200, required to strip away the infringing window tint, and fail a Vehicle Inspection.
Is window tint allowed in Texas?
No. Red, amber, and blue are illegal under Texas laws.
Is there a grace period to correct an illegal tint?
Yes, a citation can provide time to correct the issue.
Do police vehicles have the same tint laws?
No, police cars are usually exempt.
