Washington 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Washington’s tint laws are designed to improve visibility, reduce glare, and ensure road safety. The rules vary based on the type of vehicle you drive. The law focuses on Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which is the percentage of light that must pass through your window and tint combined. Below is the breakdown of the darkest legal tint for sedans, SUVs, and vans in Washington as of 2025.
Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Washington (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 24% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Tint must also allow more than 24% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 24% of light.
This ensures that all-around visibility remains safe while still providing some protection from sun and glare.
Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Washington (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches only.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness is allowed.
- Rear Window: Any darkness is allowed.
SUV and van owners get more flexibility with rear tint, which helps with privacy and sun protection while keeping front windows clearly visible for safety.
Understanding Washington Window Tint Law
Driving in Washington means dealing with bright sunlight that can be tough on your eyes. Window tint can help reduce glare and keep your car cool. But there are strict rules about how dark your tint can be. The Washington window tint law 2025 sets clear limits. If your tint is too dark, you might get fined or pulled over.
Insurance companies also take this seriously. If your tint breaks the Washington car tint legal limits, your insurance claim might be denied. You could also face higher premiums. It’s important to follow the rules to avoid these costs.
Take a moment to learn the Washington window tint percentage 2025. This way, you’ll know exactly what’s allowed and can keep your vehicle both comfortable and legal.
Why Compliance with Washington Tint Laws Matters
Driving in Washington means facing both strong sunlight in the summer and poor visibility during rainy or foggy days. Window tint can help block harsh light, reduce glare, and keep your car cooler. But if the tint is too dark, it can also make it harder to see clearly, especially at night or in low-light weather. Following Washington’s tint rules helps me drive more safely in all conditions.
Tint laws also help me avoid legal and insurance problems. Washington police often check for illegal tint during traffic stops. If my windows are too dark, I might get a ticket or fail a vehicle inspection. By following the law, I avoid fines, protect my insurance coverage, and keep my driving record clean. Legal tint keeps me safer, stress-free, and on the road with confidence.
What Changed in Washington Tinting Law 2025?
Washington’s tint laws have remained mostly the same, but enforcement has become more strict in 2025. Police officers and inspectors now use newer digital tint meters to check Visible Light Transmission (VLT) levels more accurately.
Officers are now making sure that all windows meet the legal minimum of 24% VLT, especially for sedans. Any film that makes windows too dark can lead to a citation. Drivers are also reminded that tint rules apply to both new and older vehicles, and updated inspections will catch non-compliant tint. Even vehicles that passed in the past could fail now if the tint no longer meets current enforcement standards.
Window Tinting Laws in Washington
Washington’s window tint laws are based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which measures how much light must pass through a tinted window. These laws are designed to maintain driver visibility and road safety. Rules differ depending on whether your vehicle is a sedan or a multi-purpose vehicle.
Passenger Cars and Station Wagons
For sedans in Washington, non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top 6 inches of the windshield. The rest of the windshield must remain clear to provide an unobstructed forward view.
The front side windows must allow more than 24% of visible light to pass through. The rear side windows and rear windshield must also allow more than 24% of light to enter. This setup provides sun protection while making sure the driver can still see clearly and law enforcement can see inside when needed.
Multi-Purpose Vehicles (SUVs, Vans, Trucks)
For SUVs, vans, and trucks, the windshield may also have non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches only, just like in passenger cars.
The front side windows must allow over 24% of light to pass through, but the rear side windows and rear windshield can be tinted to any darkness. These rules give more freedom for privacy and UV protection in the back, while keeping visibility in the front for safe driving.
If you’re unsure which rule applies to your vehicle, check the label inside the driver’s side door. It will tell you whether your car is classified as a passenger vehicle or a multi-purpose vehicle, which determines which tinting standards you must follow.
Washington Tint Law 2025: Sedans, SUVs, Trucks Compared
| Vehicle Type | Front Windshield | Front Side Windows | Rear Side Windows | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedans | Top 6 inches only (non-reflective) | >24% VLT | >24% VLT | >24% VLT |
| SUVs/Vans | Top 6 inches only (non-reflective) | >24% VLT | No limit | No limit |
| Trucks | Top 6 inches only (non-reflective) | >24% VLT | No limit* | No limit* |
Note: Trucks with tinted rear windows must have dual side mirrors.
Window Tint Reflection in Washington
Washington has clear rules about how reflective car window tint can be. The main goal is to reduce glare that might distract the driver or blind others on the road. Too much reflection from tint is not allowed, no matter the type of vehicle.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front Side Windows: Tint must not reflect more than 35% of light. Mirror-like or shiny tint is not allowed.
- Back Side Windows: The same 35% reflection limit applies here as well. Avoid any metallic or highly reflective films.
Tint Reflection for SUVs and Vans
- Front Side Windows: Just like sedans, tint must not reflect more than 35%. No silver, gold, or chrome-like tints.
- Back Side Windows: These also must stay under 35% reflective. Even with more freedom in tint darkness, reflection must remain low.
Other Washington Window Tint Rules and Regulations
Side Mirrors: If your back window is tinted, your car must have dual side mirrors that provide a full rear view.
Restricted Colors: Washington bans red, yellow, and amber tint films. These can be confused with emergency vehicle lights and are not street-legal.
Certificates: Film makers must certify that their tint meets Washington state laws. Always ask your installer if the product is state-certified.
Stickers: A sticker must be placed between the film and glass on the driver’s side window. This proves that your tint follows the law and helps you avoid fines.
Legal Window Tint Certificates in Washington
In Washington, every vehicle with window tint must have a compliance sticker placed between the tint film and the glass on the driver’s side window. This sticker shows that the tint film meets state-approved standards, making it easy for law enforcement and inspectors to confirm legality.
Before tinting your car, always check with the installer to ensure the film is certified for use in Washington. Certified dealers are required to use only approved tint products. If your windows are tinted without the correct film or sticker, you could be fined or forced to remove the tint.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Washington
Washington does allow medical exemptions for darker window tint. If you have a medical condition like light sensitivity, skin disorders, or eye-related problems, you may be allowed to use a tint that is darker than what the law normally permits.
To qualify, visit a licensed doctor and explain your condition. If approved, you’ll get a statement that acts as proof of exemption. Keep this document in your vehicle at all times. This special tint can make driving more comfortable while still keeping your vehicle within legal boundaries for enforcement and inspections.
Window Tint Violation Penalties in Washington
Getting caught with illegal tint in Washington can cost you. The typical fine is around $124 for a first offense. While this may not seem like much, keep in mind that officers can issue tickets for illegal tint multiple times if the issue isn’t fixed. That adds up fast.
Law enforcement officers use tint meters to test how much light passes through your windows. If your tint is too dark, you may be cited on the spot. It’s smarter to check your tint at a certified shop before facing a fine or failing a required vehicle inspection.
Risks of Illegal Window Tint in Washington
Driving with illegal window tint may seem harmless, but it can lead to serious problems. If your tint causes you to fail a safety inspection, you could lose your inspection fee and have to retest—delaying your registration renewal.
Worse, repeated offenses can lead to higher fines or even problems with your car insurance. If you’re in an accident and the illegal tint reduces visibility, your insurer may deny the claim. It’s always safer and cheaper to stay compliant with Washington’s tint laws from the start.
Common Mistakes to Avoid – Washington Tint Law 2025
Tinting front side windows below 24% VLT
Washington requires front side windows to allow at least 24 percent of visible light to pass through. Many drivers install darker film and fail vehicle inspections or receive tickets.
Applying tint too far down on the windshield
You can only tint the top six inches of the windshield. Tinting below this line violates the law and reduces visibility.
Installing reflective or mirror-like film
Washington does not allow mirrored or metallic tints. These increase glare and can cause distractions on the road.
Not checking the total VLT with factory tint
Some vehicles already have a factory tint. Adding extra film without testing the total VLT may drop it below legal limits.
Assuming rear window rules apply the same to all vehicles
Multipurpose vehicles like SUVs may have more flexibility with rear window tint. Sedans must follow stricter limits. Misunderstanding this often leads to unintentional violations.
Forgetting to carry a medical exemption certificate
Washington offers tint exemptions for medical reasons, but drivers must carry the official exemption letter in their vehicle at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions – Washington Tint Law 2025
What is the legal tint limit for front side windows in Washington?
Front side windows must allow more than 24 percent of visible light.
Can I tint my windshield in Washington?
Only the top six inches of the windshield may be tinted. Anything below that line is not allowed.
What about rear side and back windows?
Washington allows any darkness on rear side and back windows for most vehicles, but dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
Is reflective tint legal in Washington?
No. Reflective or mirrored window film is not allowed on any windows in Washington.
Does Washington offer a medical tint exemption?
Yes. Drivers with qualifying conditions can apply for an exemption, but they must carry the approval documentation in the car.
Do I need a tint compliance sticker in Washington?
Yes. A sticker showing compliance must be placed between the tint film and the glass on the driver’s side window.
Can I be fined for illegal tint in Washington?
Yes. You may receive a citation, and your vehicle could fail its safety inspection if it does not meet tint law requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding Washington’s tint laws is the first step to avoiding trouble on the road. The front side windows must let in at least 24 percent of visible light, and only the top six inches of the windshield can be tinted. Skipping the rules or using reflective film can lead to tickets, failed inspections, or both.
If you have a medical reason for darker tint, you can apply for an exemption—but keep the certificate in your vehicle. Also, don’t forget the required compliance sticker. It proves your tint follows state law.
The best way to stay legal is to check the rules before you tint. A quick review of the law or a chat with a certified installer can save you time, money, and frustration later.
Resources for Washington Drivers
Washington State Patrol – Window Tint Guidelines: https://www.wsp.wa.gov
Revised Code of Washington (RCW) § 46.37.430 – Sun Screening Devices: https://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw
Medical Tint Exemption Information and Application: https://www.dol.wa.gov
Find Certified Tint Installers in Washington: CarKitAdvisor.com/tint-installers-wa
Window Tint VLT Calculator Tool: CarKitAdvisor.com/vlt-checker
Downloadable Washington Tint Law Checklist (PDF): CarKitAdvisor.com/wa-tint-checklist