Window tint laws for every U.S. state — verified for 2026.
VLT limits, reflectivity caps, windshield rules, medical exemptions, and the official statutes that govern them. Find your state, understand the rule, link straight to the source.
Most-searched state tint laws
Straight to the state drivers ask about most. Every field is cross-checked against the state statute, administrative rule, or DMV publication for 2026.
All U.S. states & Washington, D.C.
51 editorially-reviewed pages. Each one links to the exact statute, DMV form, or agency publication that governs the rule.
Know the rule before you tint
Short, plain-English explainers on VLT, reflectivity, windshield strips, vehicle class, medical exemptions, and penalties.
What is VLT?
Visible Light Transmission — the percentage of light that passes through a tinted window. The foundation of every tint law in the U.S.
Tint percentages explained
From 5% limo tint to 70% factory tint: what each percentage looks like and where it’s legal.
Windshield tint rules
AS-1 line, top-4-inch strips, and non-reflective requirements state-by-state.
SUV vs sedan tint laws
Why most states allow darker rear windows on SUVs and vans, and how to know if your vehicle qualifies.
Medical tint exemptions
Which states offer them, who qualifies, what forms you need, and how to apply.
Tint tickets & penalties
What happens if your tint is illegal: fines, inspections, and how to fix a violation.
Every claim, traceable to a state source
Cited, not copied
Every VLT value, reflectivity cap, and medical exemption step links back to the state statute, administrative rule, or DMV form.
Verified for 2026
Every state page is re-read against the cited statute, administrative rule, or DMV publication before it carries our verification badge.
Medical detail
We break down who qualifies, which form to use, and what paperwork must stay in the vehicle — not just a yes / no.
Hyper-fast
Statically generated. Zero tracking scripts on public pages. Loads instantly on mobile, even on a weak cellular signal.
Actively maintained
Every state page is reviewed on a fixed cadence and supplementally re-checked after every legislative session.
No affiliate fluff
We don’t sell film. Our guidance isn’t shaped by what a tint shop pays us — the statute decides what we publish.
Window tint law FAQs
How do I find the window tint law for my state?
Use the state index below or the navigation bar to jump directly to any of the 50 states plus Washington, D.C. Each state page covers VLT limits, reflectivity, windshield rules, medical exemptions, and official references.
What is VLT in a window tint law?
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission. It measures the percentage of visible light that passes through the film plus the glass. A 35% VLT window allows 35% of light through. Lower percentages mean darker tint.
Do window tint laws differ for SUVs and sedans?
Yes, in most states. SUVs, vans, and trucks are often classified as multipurpose vehicles, which usually allows darker tint on back side and rear windows than is allowed on sedans. Front side window rules are often the same.
Are medical window tint exemptions available?
Most states offer some form of medical window tint exemption for drivers with qualifying conditions such as lupus or photosensitivity. Requirements vary by state. See our medical exemptions hub for state-specific details.