Texas Tint Laws
In 2009, Texas established its car window tinting laws, and we’re here to unravel the intricacies of these regulations, encompassing the allowable darkness levels and reflectivity. Here’s a comprehensive overview.
Disclaimer
While I have a background in commercial law and strive to provide accurate and informative content, it’s important to note that I am not a legal expert. The information presented in this blog is based on my interpretation of the subject matter, and laws can vary by location and change over time. It is strongly recommended that readers verify all sources of information and consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities before making any decisions related to tint laws.
Understanding the Terminology Regarding Tint Laws
The most important part of the legislation is understanding what VLT is and how law enforcement services check or test the percentage.
What is VLT
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, is a measure of the amount of visible light that can pass through a window tint or film. It is commonly used to determine the darkness or opacity of window tints, and it’s an important factor in window tinting laws and regulations.
VLT is typically expressed as a percentage. For example, a window tint with a VLT of 20% allows only 20% of visible light to pass through, making it relatively dark and less transparent. Conversely, a window tint with a VLT of 70% allows 70% of visible light to pass through and is much lighter and more transparent.
How do Law Enforcement services test the VLT percentage?
Window tinting laws vary by jurisdiction, and they often specify the maximum allowable VLT for different types of windows on a vehicle, such as the front windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window. These laws are designed to ensure that drivers have adequate visibility and that law enforcement can see into vehicles for safety and identification purposes. The manner that they go about testing the VLT is by using a VLT gauge/meter.
Here is a YouTube Short from @TrafficServices and @TorontoPolice showcasing the device and how it works. Even though it is in Canada, it still is helpful to understand how the tint darkness is measured.
Window Tint Darkness in Texas:
The opacity of your window tints in Texas is quantified using Visible Light Transmission (VLT), indicating the percentage of visible light permitted through your car windows. These VLT specifications differ for sedans and SUVs/vans:
Texas Car Tint Law For Sedans:
- Windshield: Texas allows 25% VLT tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches, with a reflection of less than 25%.
- Front Side windows: These windows must admit more than 25% of light.
- Back Side windows: Sedans can employ any degree of tint darkness on their rear side windows.
- Rear Window: Any level of darkness is permissible with side outside mirrors. A 25% VLT is the requirement without side mirrors.
Tint Law For SUVs and Vans in Texas:
- Windshield: Similar to sedans, Texas permits 25% VLT tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or within the top 5 inches, with a reflection of less than 25%.
- Front Side windows: SUVs and vans must allow more than 25% of light.
- Back Side windows: SUVs and vans can utilize any darkness level on their rear side windows.
- Rear Window: Any degree of darkness is permissible with side outside mirrors. A 25% VLT is mandated without side mirrors.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | 25% VLT above AS-1 line or top 5 inches. Reflection less than 25% | 25% VLT above AS-1 line or top 5 inches. Reflection less than 25% |
| Front Side Windows | More than 25% of light | More than 25% of light |
| Back Side Windows | Any tint darkness allowed | Any tint darkness allowed |
| Rear Window | Any tint darkness with side mirrors. 25% VLT without side mirrors | Any tint darkness with side mirrors. 25% VLT without side mirrors |
Window Tint Reflection in Texas:
Window tints can serve the purpose of reflecting incoming light, reducing glare and heat. Texas law sets a maximum reflection level, which applies to both sedans and SUVs/vans. Front and back side windows should not exceed 25% reflectivity.
Additional Texas Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In addition to VLT and reflectivity standards, Texas’ window tinting laws encompass other crucial provisions:
Side Mirrors
Texas mandates the use of dual side mirrors if the rear window is tinted.
Restricted Colors
Texas prohibits the use of red, blue, and amber tint colors on windshields.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are required to certify the film they sell within the state of Texas. It’s advisable to confirm this with your dealer.
Stickers
Texas law necessitates a sticker to identify legal tinting, which should be affixed between the film and glass on the driver’s side window.
Medical Exceptions
Texas window tint laws acknowledge medical exemptions for individuals necessitating special tints based on medical grounds.
Regulations for Out-of-State Drivers
The same regulations apply to out-of-state drivers as those for drivers living in the State.
If you are from States such as New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
It’s vital to bear in mind that interpretations of Texas’ tinting laws and regulations may vary according to your county or place of residence. To ensure full compliance, we strongly recommend verifying this information with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or law enforcement authorities.
Our information regarding Texas’ window tint laws was most recently updated in 2023. We are dedicated to delivering accurate and current information. If you encounter any inaccuracies or outdated data, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your trust in our resources is of utmost importance, and we are committed to providing the most reliable information available.