Car window tinting laws in Washington – Are you thinking about getting your car windows tinted in Washington? If so, you must be aware of the state’s window tint laws.
In Washington, there are various rules and restrictions on how dark your window tint can be, depending on the type of window.
In this article, we’ll break down the Washington window tint law so you know exactly what’s allowed and not. We’ll also discuss the potential consequences of getting your windows tinted illegally.
So whether you’re just curious about the law or ready to start shopping for a tint shop, read on for all the information you need about Washington window tinting laws.
Window tint darkness in Washington
The percent of visible light allowed via your car windows is called Visible Light Transmission (VLT). The percentage of light allowed through your glass and film in Washington is particular and different for sedan cars and vans or SUV cars.
Darkest legal tint for Sedans in Washington
| Front Side windows: | Must allow more than 24% of light in. |
| Back Side windows | Must allow more than 24% of light in. |
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint is allowed on top 6 inches of the windshield. |
| Rear window | Must allow more than 24% of light in. |
Darkest legal tint for SUVs and Vans in Washington
| Front Side windows: | Must allow more than 24% of light in. |
| Back Side windows: | Any darkness can be used. |
| Windshield: | Non-reflective tint is allowed on top 6 inches of the windshield. |
| Rear window: | Any darkness can be used. |
Window Tint Reflection in Washington
Window tints reflect light, reducing heat and glare. Washington window tint law allows the reflection of a specific window when tinted; you should be aware of this, too.
Tint reflection for sedans:
| Front Side windows: | Must not be more than 35% reflective. |
| Back Side windows: | Must not be more than 35% reflective. |
Tint reflection for SUVs and vans:
| Front Side windows: | Must not be more than 35% reflective. |
| Back Side windows: | Must not be more than 35% reflective. |
Washington window tint rules and regulations
Washington has several other significant laws, regulations, and guidelines relating to window tinting. These include:
| Side Mirrors: | Double-side mirrors are required in this state if the back window is tinted. |
| Certificates: | Film manufacturers need to certify the film they sell in the state of Washington. Check with your dealer if they are using certified film. |
| Restricted Colors: | Red, Yellow, and amber window tints are not allowed by Washington law. |
| Medical Exceptions: | Washington allows medical exemptions for special tint. |
| Stickers: | The sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on the driver’s side window. |
Remember that Washington tinting regulations and laws could differ in your locality or residence. Always make sure to double-check the accuracy of our information with your nearby DMV as well as law enforcement authorities.
Window Tint Violations in Washington
Window tinting tickets for Washington usually cost $124, which isn’t that expensive of a fine if you are only ticketed once. However, you can be issued an infraction for illegal tint in Washington repeatedly for the same tint. Hence, ensuring that the tint you’ve installed is legal from the beginning is important.
Police officers can use a handheld device that allows them to test the window tint VLT in real-time, which means any traffic stop could result in the unwelcome cost of a ticket for tint. If you’re unsure regarding your window tint, visit a reputable Washington window tinting company and get it tested. It’s best to discover if it’s an issue rather than when a police officer detains you or if an illegal tint makes it impossible to pass a checkpoint within Washington State.
MPV Window Tint Laws in Washington
Washington state laws on tints and MPVs (an abbreviation of multi-purpose vehicles for trucks, SUVs, vans, RVs and other vehicles) could contain 24% or lower VLT window tints in the two front windows. They can also include window films of any dark (including privacy tints that block out light) on the side windows in the rear and the rear windshield. Like car window film in Washington, the window tint applied to MPVs can be as high as 35% reflective.
Car Window Tint Laws in Washington
In Washington, automobiles (passenger cars and coupes) are permitted to have tinted windows rated at 22% VLT or more on all the side windows, as well as the back of the windshield.
The tint of a window can be up to 35 percent reflective (or reflective or mirrored) in appearance. This can be more reflective than the maximum allowed in some states. It is important to note that reflective tints can help with solar energy rejection and isn’t just for cosmetic purposes.
Windshield Tint Rules in Washington
In several states, a strip of tinted windshield on the edge of the glass is permitted in Washington. Vehicles, trucks, SUVs, and vans could all be equipped with non-reflective reflective window film applied 6 inches above the windshield glass.
Tint Law References:
FAQs Washington Window Tint Laws
The darkest legal tint in Washington state is 24%.
Yes, tinting your windshield in Washington state is illegal unless you have a non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
The penalties for displaying unintentionally tinted windows in Washington state differ based on the offense’s seriousness. For instance, a single violation could be punished with a penalty as high as $124. A second violation could result in a fine as high as $250 or suspending your driving license for at least 30 days.
Yes, you can obtain an exemption medically for illegal window tints within Washington state. You need to obtain the form from your doctor to get this exemption and send your request to Washington State Patrol.
Many businesses in Washington State offer window tinting services. You can find a list of businesses in your area online or ask your family or friends for recommendations.