Washington State Vehicle Tint Laws Illustration

Washington State Tint Laws (2025): The Ultimate Guide to Legal Window Tinting

April 11, 2025

Stay legal in 2025 with our complete guide to Washington State tint laws. Learn permissible tint levels, exceptions, and more from Bellevue’s top wrap and tint shop.

Washington State Vehicle Tint Laws Illustration

Updated for 2025 - If you're wondering what the legal tint is in Washington State, you're not alone. Many drivers in Seattle, Bellevue, and across Washington want the privacy and UV protection of tinted car windows, but staying within the law is crucial to avoid tickets. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down Washington state tint laws in plain English - including Visible Light Transmission (VLT) definitions, legal tint percentages for different vehicles, medical exemptions, penalties for illegal tint, and tips to stay compliant. By the end, you'll know exactly how to tint your windows legally in Washington and where to get professional, law-abiding installation. Let's dive in!

Table of Contents

  1. What is VLT? Understanding Window Tint Percentages
  2. Washington State Window Tint Laws (2025) – Legal Limits by Vehicle Type & Tint Color
  3. Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Washington
  4. Penalties and Consequences for Illegal Tint in WA
  5. Tips for Staying Compliant with Washington Tint Laws
  6. Trusted Window Tinting in Bellevue, WA (Serving Seattle Area)
  7. FAQs about Washington Tint Laws
  8. Sources & References

What is VLT? Understanding Window Tint Percentages

Washington State Vehicle Tint Laws - Visible Light Transmission Illustration

Before we get into the laws, it's important to understand Visible Light Transmission (VLT) - the key metric used in tint regulations. VLT is the percentage of visible light that passes through your car window. A higher VLT means more light passes through (lighter tint), while a lower VLT means less light passes through (darker tint). For example, a window with 50% VLT is only half tinted (allows 50% of light in), whereas a 24% VLT window is much darker, allowing only 24% of light through app.leg.wa.gov. In other words, the lower the VLT%, the darker the tint.

Some other terms you'll encounter include:

  • Reflectance (Reflectivity): This refers to how much light the tint film reflects (often seen as a "mirror" effect). Washington limits window tint reflectivity to a maximum of 35% reflectance app.leg.wa.gov - meaning overly reflective or mirror-like tints are not allowed.
  • AS-1 Line: This is a marking on your windshield, usually a few inches from the top, indicating the upper limit for tint. Washington law allows a tinted "sun strip" only at the top 6 inches of the windshield (or down to the AS-1 line) - we'll detail this below washingtonwindowtinting.com.
  • Factory Tint vs. Aftermarket Tint: Many SUVs and vans come with a mild factory tint on rear windows. Washington's law considers the combined effect of any factory tint plus aftermarket film (called "net film screening") when measuring VLT app.leg.wa.gov. So even if your vehicle has factory-tinted glass, any additional film must keep the overall tint within legal limits.

Understanding these basics will help make sense of the specific percentages and rules in Washington's tint law. Now, let's look at the legal tint limits for different windows and vehicle types in Washington state.

Washington's tint laws set specific limits on how dark you can tint each window on your vehicle. These limits vary slightly depending on the type of vehicle you drive. Below is a handy table summarizing the legal window tint limits in Washington for sedans (passenger cars) versus SUVs, trucks, and other multi-purpose vehicles. All percentages refer to minimum VLT% (Visible Light Transmission) allowed, meaning the tint must let in at least that much light:

WindowSedans & Passenger CarsSUVs, Trucks & Vans (MPVs)
Front WindshieldNo tint except a top 6-inch strip (non-reflective) washingtonwindowtinting.com. Full windshield tint not allowed, except clear UV film.Same: Top 6 inches can be tinted (non-reflective). No tinting on rest of windshield (except clear UV-blocking film is allowed) app.leg.wa.gov.
Front Side WindowsMust allow > 24% of light in (≥24% VLT) app.leg.wa.gov. In other words, tint can block up to ~76% of light.Same: ≥24% VLT on driver and front passenger windows app.leg.wa.gov.
Rear Side WindowsMust allow > 24% of light in (≥24% VLT) app.leg.wa.gov. No darker tint permitted on sedans.No VLT limit - can be darker than 24% app.leg.wa.gov.* Washington law allows any darkness on rear side windows of trucks, SUVs, and other multi-purpose vehicles, as long as other conditions (mirrors, reflectivity) are met.
Rear Window (Back)Must allow > 24% of light in (≥24% VLT) app.leg.wa.gov. Same as rear sides - must not be darker than 24% on sedans.No VLT limit - any darkness allowed on rear windshield for SUVs/trucks/vans app.leg.wa.gov.* (Dual side mirrors required if rear window is tinted).
ReflectivityMax 35% reflective (non-mirrored tint) on all tinted windows app.leg.wa.gov. Mirrors or metallic-looking tints are not allowed.Max 35% reflective on all tinted windows app.leg.wa.gov (same rule).
Color RestrictionsNo red, gold, yellow, or full black tint hues allowed app.leg.wa.gov. Standard neutral gray/charcoal tints are permitted.Same restrictions apply: no red, gold, yellow, or full black tint hues app.leg.wa.gov.
Other RequirementsDual side mirrors required if rear window is tinted app.leg.wa.gov. Only one layer of film per window (no stacking films) app.leg.wa.gov.Dual side mirrors required if any back windows are tinted www.wsp.wa.gov. One-film rule also applies equally.
*Note: The exception allowing darker tint on rear windows applies to vehicles classified as "trucks, motor homes, or multipurpose passenger vehicles" (MPVs) by the manufacturer app.leg.wa.gov. This generally includes pickup trucks, SUVs, vans, limousines, etc. Regular passenger cars (sedans, coupes, hatchbacks) do not qualify for this exception and must stick to 24% VLT on all side and rear windows.*

As the table shows, for most standard cars the rule is simple: 24% VLT or higher on all windows except the windshield. For larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks, you get more leeway on the back windows (they can be as dark as you want), but front windows still must be 24%. And no matter what you drive, the front windshield can only have a small tinted strip at the top (up to 6 inches down or to the AS-1 line) - the rest of the windshield must remain clear. Washington also explicitly allows clear, transparent film that blocks UV light on the full windshield, since it doesn't reduce visible light app.leg.wa.gov (a great option if you want UV protection without tinting).

Let's break down these rules further for each part of the vehicle:

Tint Rules for Sedans & Passenger Cars

  • Front & Back Side Windows: Must let in at least 24% of visible light. This means you can use a tint film around 28% or 30% (or lighter) to be safely above the 24% threshold once applied to the glass. All side windows on a sedan are subject to this same limit app.leg.wa.gov.
  • Rear Window (rear windshield): Must also have ≥24% VLT (same as side windows) app.leg.wa.gov. You cannot put limo-dark tint on a sedan's back window in Washington - it has to allow more than 24% of light through.
  • Windshield: You cannot tint the entire front windshield on a standard car (that's illegal in WA). You're only allowed a tinted strip along the top 6 inches of the windshield, and that tint must be non-reflective washingtonwindowtinting.com. This strip (often called an "eyebrow" or sun visor strip) helps reduce glare. The rest of the windshield must remain untinted except for clear UV-protective film if desired (clear films that block UV are legal and don't count as tint since they don't darken the glass app.leg.wa.gov).
  • Other Requirements: If you tint the back window, your car must have dual side mirrors (both left and right side mirrors) to ensure you have adequate rear visibility app.leg.wa.gov. Most cars have this anyway. Also, only one layer of tint film per window is allowed (no stacking layers to go darker) app.leg.wa.gov. And remember, certain tint colors are banned - Washington prohibits red, gold, yellow, or black tint films app.leg.wa.gov, as well as any highly reflective mirror-like tints.

In short, passenger cars in WA can have tint down to 24% VLT on all side and rear windows, which is a fairly dark tint but not opaque. This still gives a nice shaded look and significant glare reduction, but you'll be able to see through the car if you look closely (which is what law enforcement wants). Now, let's see how the rules differ for larger vehicles.

Tint Rules for SUVs, Trucks & Vans (Multi-Purpose Vehicles)

  • Front Windows: The driver and front passenger windows on SUVs, pickups, vans, etc. still must obey the ≥24% VLT rule just like cars app.leg.wa.gov. There's no exception for front-side windows - lawmakers want drivers to have a reasonably clear view. So you can't go darker than 24% on the front doors even if you drive a big SUV.
  • Rear Side & Rear Windows: Here's where SUVs and similar vehicles get extra flexibility. Washington law allows these vehicles to have darker than 24% tint on any windows behind the driver (i.e. rear side windows and rear windshield) app.leg.wa.gov. In fact, there is no minimum VLT limit for those back windows on trucks, vans, and MPVs - you could use 5% "limo tint" on the back if you wanted, and it would be legal on those vehicles. Many SUVs come factory with deep privacy glass on rear windows, and the law accommodates that. Important: if you do darken the back windows, you are required to have both side mirrors on the vehicle app.leg.wa.gov app.leg.wa.gov (virtually all modern SUVs/trucks do).
  • Windshield: The windshield rule is the same for all vehicles: only a top six-inch strip of tint is allowed (non-reflective), and no tinting on the rest of the windshield except clear UV film app.leg.wa.gov. Even big trucks can't have full windshield tint in Washington.
  • Reflectivity & Color: The same restrictions on reflectiveness (max 35% reflective) and banned colors (no red, gold, yellow, or black tints) apply to SUVs and trucks as well app.leg.wa.gov app.leg.wa.gov. So, you can go as dark as you want on the rear windows, but you still can't use a mirror-finish or colored tint that's not allowed.

To summarize, owners of SUVs, vans, and pickups in WA can legally have very dark tint on back-seat windows and the rear glass - a common choice for privacy and sun protection - as long as the front windows are 24% or lighter. This is why you often see SUVs with almost black rear windows from the factory; it's legal for them. Just ensure any aftermarket film you add to those windows also complies with the 35% reflectivity limit and isn't a prohibited color.

Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Washington

What if you have a medical condition that makes you extremely sensitive to sunlight? Washington's tint law provides an allowance for this. Drivers (or passengers) with certain medical needs can apply a darker tint than normally permitted, via a medical exemption. Here's how it works in Washington State:

  • Physician's Note Required: To qualify for a tint exemption, you must have written verification from a licensed physician stating that you or a regular passenger must be protected from sunlight for medical reasons app.leg.wa.gov. Some conditions that might warrant extra tint include extreme photosensitivity, lupus, melanoma, or other sun-sensitive conditions - but ultimately it's up to a doctor to certify the need.
  • No Special Permit Form: Unlike some states, Washington does not require you to file any official exemption application or carry a state-issued permit. The law simply requires the doctor's note. The Washington State Patrol confirms that "there is no form to complete or submit for a window tint exemption" - you just need to carry the physician's verification in the vehicle at all times www.wsp.wa.gov.
  • How Much Extra Tint is Allowed: With a valid medical note, you are allowed a "greater degree of light reduction" on all windows, including the windshield's top 6 inches app.leg.wa.gov. In practice, this means you could legally install darker-than-24% tint (even very dark films like 5%) on any necessary windows if you have the exemption. Important: Even with an exemption, your tint still must comply with the 35% reflectivity limit and color restrictions (the exemption only lets you go darker on the VLT, not use illegal colors or mirrored tint).
  • Keep Documentation in Your Car: If you utilize this exemption, always keep the doctor's letter in your vehicle. If you get pulled over, you'll need to show law enforcement the letter to prove your tint is medically authorized www.wsp.wa.gov.

In short, Washington does allow darker tints for medical reasons, but you need a doctor's note and you need to be ready to show it. There's no need to register it with the DOL; just carry the note. If you think you qualify, talk to your physician. This exemption can make a huge difference for those who truly need it, allowing you to, say, tint all windows including front sides to 5-10% VLT for maximum light blockage (something normally illegal) legally with a doctor's approval.

Penalties and Consequences for Illegal Tint in WA

Installing window tint darker than allowed by Washington law can lead to costly penalties and other headaches. Window tint violations are considered a traffic infraction in Washington app.leg.wa.gov, meaning you can be ticketed for having illegal tint on your vehicle. Here's what to expect if you don't follow the tint laws:

  • Traffic Stop & Citation: If a police officer suspects your windows are too dark (for example, they can't easily see into the front of your car), they can pull you over. Often, officers carry tint meters to measure VLT on the spot. If the reading shows your tint is below the legal 24% VLT threshold (and you have no exemption or other exception), it's a violation.
  • Fines: Illegal window tint tickets in Washington typically run around $124 for each offense www.raynofilm.com. This can vary slightly by county or court, but ~$124 is a common fine amount per citation. In some jurisdictions it might be a bit higher (some reports indicate ~$136), especially if administrative fees are added. Each time you are cited, you'd have to pay a fine, so it can add up if you don't remove the tint.
  • Fix-It Order: In many cases, you might also receive a notice to fix the violation. This means you'd be required to remove the illegal tint and restore your windows to legal specifications. Simply paying the fine and keeping the tint isn't a wise option - you'll likely just get ticketed again in the future. It's better to remove or replace the film with a legal VLT level to avoid ongoing trouble.
  • Other Consequences: Having illegally dark tint can draw unwanted attention from law enforcement. A minor traffic stop for tint could also lead to other inspections (for example, an officer might scrutinize your vehicle for other equipment violations or issues once you're pulled over). Moreover, illegal tint might affect insurance claims or vehicle inspections in some cases - for instance, if your car's tint is found illegal during an accident investigation, it could complicate matters. It's just not worth the risk.

Remember, the intent of the tint law is safety - extremely dark windows can pose risks to law enforcement and other drivers. Staying within the legal limits keeps you on the right side of the law and helps ensure safe driving conditions for everyone. If you currently have tint that's too dark (for example, you bought a used car that came with 15% tint on the front windows), it's advisable to have it removed or replaced with a legal film. The short-term cost of adjusting your tint is far better than ongoing fines or potential safety issues.

Tips for Staying Compliant with Washington Tint Laws

Keeping your car's tint legal doesn't mean you have to sacrifice comfort or style. You can enjoy the benefits of window tinting (heat reduction, UV protection, glare reduction, privacy) while obeying Washington's laws. Here are some smart tips to ensure you stay compliant:

  • Know the Law Before You Tint: As a rule of thumb in Washington, remember "24% all around for cars, and 24% front with any level in back for SUVs/trucks." If a shop or friend suggests a tint that's significantly darker on your front windows, be cautious and refer to the law. When in doubt, ask them to measure the film's VLT or show certification.

  • Use a Professional Tint Installer: Always have your tint installed by a reputable, professional tint shop that knows Washington State's tint laws. Legitimate installers will ensure the film they put on your car is within legal limits. In fact, Washington law requires tint shops to provide a certification sticker on your driver's door jamb confirming the tint is legal app.leg.wa.gov. A quality installer will give you this sticker and use state-approved films. (At Bespoke Tint & PPF, for example, we always make sure your tint is 100% legal and provide the compliance sticker). And if you are installing a tint that is not legal, we make sure to inform you of the law and the possible consequences of having illegal tint.

  • Avoid DIY Tint or Uncertified Films: Buying tint film online and doing it yourself might save money upfront, but you might unknowingly install an illegal tint. Also, some cheap films may not be clearly labeled with their VLT%. It's easy to accidentally go too dark. Professional film brands will have the VLT clearly indicated (e.g. 35%, 20%, etc.) and a pro installer will have a light meter to verify the final result.

  • Don't Stack Tint Layers: If one layer of tint isn't dark enough for your taste, do not add another layer - layering film is illegal in Washington app.leg.wa.gov and will almost certainly drop the VLT below legal levels. Instead, choose a single-film product that meets the legal limit. If you want it darker for a valid reason, pursue the medical exemption route rather than layering.

  • Check Your Tint if Moving from Out of State: If you've moved to Washington from a state with different tint laws, double-check that your existing tint complies with WA rules. For example, California's front window limit is 70% VLT - if your car from California has 70% on the front, that's legal in WA (since 70% is lighter than 24%), no issue. But if you're coming from a state like Arizona or Florida where darker front tints are allowed, you may need to remove or change your tint after registering your car in Washington.

  • Keep Your Medical Exemption Letter Handy: (If applicable) - We mentioned this before, but it bears repeating: if you have a medical tint exemption, always carry the documentation. You might even consider keeping a copy in the glove box and a note on your phone. Make sure any family members who drive the vehicle are also aware of the need to show the letter if pulled over.

  • Stay Informed on Updates: Laws can change, so it's good to stay informed. Washington's tint law has been stable for years (no major changes as of 2025), but if you're reading this much later, check for any updates from Washington State Legislature or Department of Licensing. As of now, the limits are as discussed, and any future changes would likely be publicized.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a cooler, safer ride and peace of mind that you won't get slapped with a tint ticket. It all comes down to using the right products and installers, and knowing the rules. Speaking of professional installation—if you want to ensure your tint job is done right and legally, our next section is for you.

Trusted Window Tinting in Bellevue, WA (Serving Seattle Area)

If you're looking for professional car window tinting near you in the Seattle/Bellevue area that guarantees legal compliance, look no further than Bespoke Tint & PPF. We are Bellevue, WA's premier window tinting service, and we take Washington's tint laws as seriously as you do. Here's why choosing Bespoke Tint & PPF ensures you get the best legal tinting service in town:

  • Expert Knowledge of WA Tint Laws: Our team stays up-to-date on all Washington State tint laws and regulations. We consult with you on the appropriate VLT level for your vehicle to make sure you get the look and heat reduction you want while staying within legal limits. Not sure what 24% looks like? We'll show you samples and help you choose the perfect shade that meets the law.
  • High-Quality Legal Films: We use only premium, state-approved window films (including ceramic and nano-ceramic tints) that block heat and UV rays effectively without needing to go too dark. These films are engineered for maximum performance at legal VLT levels. For example, if you want superior heat rejection but still need 70% on your windshield (since only clear film is allowed), we have clear ceramic films that block infrared and UV without tinting the glass. All our films also comply with the < 35% reflectivity rule, and we never use prohibited colors.
  • Professional Installation & Certification: Our installers are highly experienced and meticulous. Every tint job is done in a clean, controlled environment to ensure a flawless finish (no bubbles or debris). And when we're done, we provide the required compliance sticker on your driver-side door frame certifying the tint's VLT and our business info, as mandated by state law app.leg.wa.gov. This sticker is your assurance (and proof to any officer) that your tint was installed legally by a licensed shop.
  • Customized Solutions: Whether you drive a sedan, a family SUV, a luxury sports car, or a classic vehicle, we tailor our services to your needs. We've tinted countless cars in Bellevue and Seattle, so we understand local preferences and concerns (yes, we know you want to cut that glare off Lake Washington during your commute!). We can also accommodate medical exemption tints - if you have a doctor's note, we'll work with you to apply the necessary darker film and advise how to carry your documentation.
  • More Than Just Tint: As our name suggests, Bespoke Tint & PPF offers more than window tinting. We also specialize in Paint Protection Film (PPF), vinyl wraps, ceramic coatings, and other automotive cosmetic enhancements. That means we're a one-stop shop to both protect and customize your ride. Many clients pair window tint with PPF to shield their paint from rock chips on those I-90 or I-405 drives.
  • Excellent Customer Service and Reputation: We pride ourselves on a modern, customer-first approach. From the moment you contact us for a quote to the final inspection of your newly tinted car, you'll experience professionalism and transparency. Our 5-star reviews and testimonials speak to our commitment to quality. We treat every vehicle as if it were our own.

Ready to get your windows tinted legally and beautifully?

Contact Bespoke Tint & PPF today at (425) 372-7259 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment. We'll answer any questions you have about Washington's tint laws and help you choose a film that's perfect for your needs. You can also visit our shop in Bellevue, WA - we happily serve customers from across the Greater Seattle area. Protect your car and stay cool (literally and legally) with a professional tint installation by Bespoke Tint & PPF!

FAQs about Washington Tint Laws

To wrap up, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding WA window tint laws and legal tinting:

Sources & References: Washington State tint law is codified in RCW 46.37.430 app.leg.wa.gov app.leg.wa.gov, which outlines the 24% VLT requirement, exceptions for certain vehicles, and other rules. Additional guidance is provided by the Washington State Patrol www.wsp.wa.gov www.wsp.wa.gov, confirming details like the medical exemption process and enforcement. For more information, you can refer to the Washington State Department of Licensing or Washington State Patrol's official publications on vehicle window sunscreening. Always ensure any information is up to date; this article reflects the law as of 2025. If you have specific questions, feel free to contact us or consult the RCWs and WACs related to vehicle equipment for the most authoritative info. Safe and legal driving app.leg.wa.gov app.leg.wa.gov