Kansas 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Understanding how dark your car windows can legally be in Kansas is important to avoid fines and stay safe. The law sets specific limits based on the type of vehicle. Here’s a breakdown of the darkest legal tint levels allowed for sedans, SUVs, and vans in Kansas in 2025.
Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Kansas (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line only.
- Front Side Windows: Must let in more than 35% of light.
- Back Side Windows: Must let in more than 35% of light.
- Rear Window: Must let in more than 35% of light.
Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Kansas (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line only.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow over 35% VLT (Visible Light Transmission).
- Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light.
Understanding Kansas Window Tint Law
Kansas weather brings sun and glare that make window tint useful, but the rules are clear. The Kansas window tint law 2025 sets limits on tint darkness. Tints darker than the legal window tint Kansas allows can lead to fines or traffic stops.
Your insurance may not cover damages if your tint breaks the Kansas car tint legal limits. This could mean denied claims or higher rates. Staying within the law protects both your wallet and your peace of mind.
Check the Kansas window tint percentage 2025 to know what’s legal. Understanding these rules helps you make the right tint choice for your vehicle.
What Changed in Kansas Tinting Law 2025?
Kansas kept most of its old window tint rules, but made a few updates in 2025.
The state now checks reflective tint more strictly. Police officers use new inspection steps to find shiny or mirror-like films, which are still not allowed under Kansas law.
Also, medical tint exemptions must now be renewed every year. The form must be signed by a Kansas-licensed doctor, and drivers must keep this proof in their car at all times.
Window Tinting Laws in Kansas
Kansas tint laws follow rules found in State Code 8-1749a. These laws apply to all regular cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans. The main goal is to keep drivers safe and help police see inside when needed.
Passenger Cars and Sedans
In Kansas, non-reflective tint is allowed above the AS-1 line on the front windshield. This line is usually marked on the glass by the car maker.
Front side windows must let in more than 35% of visible light. This helps keep a clear view inside the car for safety.
The rear side windows and rear windshield must also let in over 35% of light. You are not allowed to use mirror-like or shiny films.
SUVs, Vans, and Multi-Purpose Vehicles
SUVs and vans follow the same tint rules for the front windshield and front side windows. Only the top of the windshield (above the AS-1 line) can be tinted. The front side windows must allow over 35% of light.
For the rear windows, Kansas laws require them to also let in more than 35% of light. There is no special rule that allows darker tint in the back.
Kansas 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Vehicle Type | Windshield Tint | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Rear Window |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sedans | Non-reflective above AS-1 line | >35% light allowed | >35% light allowed | >35% light allowed |
SUVs/Vans | Non-reflective above AS-1 line | >35% light allowed | >35% light allowed | >35% light allowed |
Trucks | Non-reflective above AS-1 line | >35% light allowed | >35% light allowed | >35% light allowed |
Note: AS-1 Line: This is a mark on your windshield showing where tinting can begin.
Window Tint Reflection in Kansas
Kansas has simple rules for how reflective window tint can be. The goal is to reduce glare and keep roads safe for everyone. Metallic or mirrored tints are not allowed on any part of your vehicle. All tint must have a normal, non-shiny look.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front Side Windows: No metallic or mirror-like tint is allowed.
- Back Side Windows: Must not have a shiny or reflective finish.
Tint Reflection for SUVs and Vans
- Front Side Windows: Cannot have reflective or mirror-style tint.
- Back Side Windows: Must be non-reflective, even if you use darker shades.
Other Kansas Window Tint Rules and Regulations
Side Mirrors
If your vehicle has tint on the rear window, you must have two side mirrors. This helps you see behind clearly even if the back window is dark.
Restricted Colors
Kansas bans red, amber, and yellow window tints. These colors can confuse other drivers or look like emergency lights, which is not safe.
Certificates
Kansas does not require window tint manufacturers to certify their tint films. You don’t need to show any official papers about the tint material.
Stickers
The law in Kansas recommends using a tint sticker between the film and the glass, but it’s not required. Having one can help during vehicle inspections.
Legal Window Tint Certificates in Kansas
In Kansas, you don’t need a special certificate for legal window tint. Manufacturers are not required to certify that their tint films meet Kansas laws, and installers don’t need to provide proof either. But that means you are responsible for making sure your tint is legal.
Although the state does not require a sticker showing your tint is legal, it recommends adding one. A sticker between the tint and the glass can help avoid extra police checks during inspections.
Before installing tint, it’s smart to ask your installer if the film meets Kansas tint rules. This way, you avoid problems down the road.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Kansas
Unlike many states, Kansas does not allow medical exemptions for darker window tint. Even if you have a health condition that makes sunlight dangerous—like lupus or photosensitivity—you cannot get approval to use darker tint than what’s allowed by law.
Instead, drivers should consider other protective methods, like wearing UV-blocking sunglasses or clothing. This rule may seem strict, but it applies to all vehicles and every driver in the state.
Window Tint Violation Penalties in Kansas
Breaking tint laws in Kansas is serious. It’s treated as a Class C misdemeanor, not just a small ticket. If your tint is too dark or not legal, you can be fined and may have to appear in court.
First-time violations usually mean a fine, but repeat offenses can lead to bigger penalties. In some cases, if you keep breaking the rules, your car could be impounded.
Since there’s no allowed tint variance in Kansas, your tint must follow the law exactly. It’s safer and cheaper to get legal tint from the start than to deal with court costs or losing your car later.
Note:
┃ A Class C misdemeanor in Kansas is the least serious criminal offense.
┃ It can lead to a fine of up to $500, and in some cases, a court appearance.
┃ Though it’s not as severe as a felony or Class A/B misdemeanor,
┃ it still goes on your criminal record and can affect insurance or vehicle registration if unresolved.
Risks of Illegal Window Tint in Kansas
Illegal tint can cause more than just fines. Your car may fail inspections, and your insurance company might not cover accidents if your tint is illegal. This could leave you with high repair bills or denied claims.
Also, selling your car can be harder if it has non-compliant tint. Buyers may walk away or ask you to remove it first. Keeping your window tint legal in Kansas helps you avoid stress, stay safe, and drive with peace of mind.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Kansas Tint Law
- Ignoring the AS-1 line on the windshield: Many drivers do not know that tint is only allowed above the AS-1 line on the windshield. Tinting below this line is illegal and can lead to fines.
- Using illegal colors: Applying red, amber, or yellow tint can cause immediate legal trouble. Always avoid these banned colors.
- Assuming medical exemptions exist: Kansas does not allow medical exemptions for darker tint. Don’t rely on special permission if you have health conditions.
- Skipping tint certification checks: Since manufacturers and installers are not required to certify tints in Kansas, make sure to confirm your tint complies with state rules before installation.
- Neglecting tint darkness limits: All windows except the windshield must allow at least 35% light in. Darker tints risk fines and vehicle impoundment.
- No compliance stickers: Kansas does not require stickers, but not having any proof of legality can increase the risk of inspections or citations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Kansas Tint Law 2025
Q1: What is the darkest legal tint I can have on my car windows in Kansas?
A: Your windows, except for the windshield, must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through.
Q2: Can I tint the front windshield?
A: Tint is only allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line on the windshield and must be non-reflective.
Q3: Are any colors of tint banned in Kansas?
A: Yes, red, amber, and yellow tints are not allowed under Kansas law.
Q4: Can I get a medical exemption for darker tint?
A: No, Kansas does not allow medical exemptions for window tint.
Q5: Do I need a compliance sticker on my tinted windows?
A: No, Kansas does not require tint stickers, but having documentation or proof of legal tint is helpful.
Q6: What happens if I get caught with illegal window tint?
A: You may face a Class C misdemeanor, which can include fines and court appearances. Repeat offenses can lead to higher fines or vehicle impoundment.
Q7: How can I ensure my tint is legal in Kansas?
A: Confirm the tint lets in at least 35% visible light on all windows except the windshield, avoid banned colors, and buy from reputable dealers who follow Kansas rules.
Conclusion
Following Kansas window tint laws is important to avoid fines, stay safe on the road, and keep your vehicle legal. Using tint film that meets the 35% visible light transmission (VLT) rule for front side and other windows helps you comply with the law and avoid penalties.
Kansas does not allow medical exemptions or certain tint colors like red, amber, or yellow, so it’s essential to choose the right tint from the start. Since the state does not require compliance stickers, verifying that your tint is legal before installation is your responsibility.
To stay fully compliant, check the latest tint rules from the Kansas Department of Revenue – Division of Vehicles, or consult a professional window tint installer who knows the state laws. Understanding Kansas tint laws now can save you from costly fines, vehicle impoundment, and legal troubles.
Resources & Useful Links for Kansas Drivers
- Kansas Department of Revenue – Vehicle Services
https://www.ksrevenue.org/dov.html
Official site for vehicle registration and motor vehicle services, including window tint regulations. - Kansas Statutes – Vehicle Window Tinting Law (K.S.A. 8-1724)
http://kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/statute/008_000_0000_chapter/008_017_0000_article/008_017_0024_section/008_017_0024_k/
The official legal text detailing Kansas laws on window tinting. - Kansas Highway Patrol
https://khp.ks.gov/
For enforcement policies and safety tips related to vehicle regulations including window tint. - Professional Window Film Association
https://www.pwfa.com/
A national resource for locating certified and reputable window tint installers. - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
https://www.nhtsa.gov/
Federal site providing safety information, including vehicle equipment standards.