Back in 2009, the state of Texas introduced a set of laws regarding window tinting on vehicles. To help you stay on the right side of the law, I’ve gathered all the information and documents related to your car’s window tint, including the acceptable levels of darkness and reflectiveness. But be aware, there are a few extra regulations you need to keep in mind for auto window tinting in Texas. So don’t risk incurring hefty fines – read on below to get up to speed on all the rules and guidelines.
Knowing about Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR) is essential for auto window tinting. In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Texas (VLT)
Window Tint Darkness or Visible light transmission (VLT) is a measure of the amount of light that passes through a film. It’s measured in percentages and can go from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
It’s important to note that every state has its own set of laws governing window tinting, and Texas is no exception. The amount of light that can penetrate through your tinted glass may differ from other states, and it’s also important to consider whether your vehicle is classified as a passenger vehicle or a multi-purpose vehicle. To avoid any confusion or potential legal trouble, it’s crucial to carefully read and understand the specific window tinting laws and regulations in Texas. So be sure to take the time to familiarize yourself with all the details to ensure compliance with the law.
Tint darkness law for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Texas:
Windshield: A maximum of 25% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches, with a reflection level below 25%.
Front Side windows: You can use maximum up to 25% tint darkness.
Back Side windows: You can use any tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: There are no restrictions on the darkness of tint that can be used on side mirrors as long as the driver has side outside mirrors. However, if the vehicle does not have side outside mirrors, a maximum of 25% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is allowed on rear windows.
Tint darkness law for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Texas:
Windshield: A maximum of 25% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches, with a reflection level below 25%.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 25% tint darkness for front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can use any tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: There are no restrictions on the darkness of tint that can be used on side mirrors as long as the driver has side outside mirrors. However, if the vehicle does not have side outside mirrors, a maximum of 25% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is allowed on rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in Texas (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. For window tinting, the VLR (visible light reflection) percentage is also crucial to consider. This measurement is expressed as a percentage and can range from 0% to 100%. A lower VLR percentage indicates that less visible light is reflected into the car, resulting in more sunlight being blocked.
In Texas, the law specifies a particular percentage of VLR that is allowed when using window tinting. It’s essential to pay attention to this requirement, as well as other relevant regulations, to avoid potential fines or legal issues. So, keep this in mind when selecting and applying tint to your vehicle’s windows.
Tint reflection law for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Texas:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 25% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the back side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 25% reflective.
Tint reflection law for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Texas:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 25% reflective.
Back Side windows: According to Texas law, window tint installed on the backside windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 25% reflective.
Other Texas Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
Window tinting regulations in Texas are strict, and it’s essential to comply with all the rules and regulations to avoid any legal issues. Besides maintaining a specific percentage of darkness and glare on each window, there are several other requirements that you need to follow as well. Here are some of the key rules and regulations you should keep in mind:
Side Mirrors: According to Texas tint laws, if the rear window of a vehicle is tinted, dual side mirrors are required. This is to ensure that the driver has adequate visibility while operating the vehicle, and to enhance safety on the road.
Restricted Colors: Texas tint laws prohibit the use of certain colors on windshields. Specifically, red, blue, and amber tint colors are not permitted for use on windshields in Texas. This is to ensure that the visibility of the driver is not impaired, and to promote safety on the road.
Certificates: Film manufacturers that sell their products in Texas are required to certify the film they sell in the state. This is to ensure that the film meets the standards set by Texas tint laws, and that it does not negatively affect the visibility of the driver. Before purchasing any film, it is important to check with your dealer if they are using certified film, and ensure that it meets the legal requirements.
Stickers: To ensure compliance with Texas tint laws, a sticker is required to be placed between the film and the glass on the driver’s side window. This sticker serves to identify legal tinting, and is used by law enforcement to determine if the tinting on a vehicle complies with state regulations.
Medical Exceptions: Texas allows for medical exemptions for special tint. If a person has a medical condition that requires them to have a special tint on their vehicle, they may apply for an exemption. However, it is important to note that the specific terms of the exemption vary and it is important to consult Texas tint laws for more information.
Penalties: For a first time violation of Texas tint laws, the penalty can range from $20 to $25. However, if a person violates the laws a second time, the penalty could be as much as $275. It is important to understand and comply with Texas tint laws to avoid any penalties or fines.
Conclusion
According to Texas tint laws, there are specific regulations for the darkness of tint that can apply to passenger vehicles (sedans) and multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans). For passenger vehicles, the windshield can have a maximum of 25% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches, with a reflection level below 25%. The front side windows can have a maximum of 25% tint darkness, while the back side windows can have any tint darkness. For the rear window, there are no restrictions on the darkness of tint that can be used on side mirrors as long as the driver has side outside mirrors. However, if the vehicle does not have side outside mirrors, a maximum of 25% VLT is allowed on the side windows. Similarly, for multi-purpose vehicles, the regulations for the windshield, front side windows, and rear window are the same as for passenger vehicles, but the back side windows can have any tint darkness.
Disclaimer
The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or as a substitute for the advice of an attorney. No user of this site, or any other person or entity that may have received this information, shall rely upon the information contained as creating an attorney-client relationship between such user and Car Glass Advisor. The rules and regulations pertaining to car window tint in Texas may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.