In Washington, legal tint is measured by VLT — the percentage of light the filmed glass lets through. The numbers below are the darkest tint the law allows at each window position, labeled VLT MAX: install film darker than the listed VLT and the vehicle is out of compliance. Figures are compiled from official Washington state sources; laws change, so confirm the current statute before you tint.
| Window | Darkest Legal (VLT MAX) | Reflectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | No film that reduces light transmittance below the top edge: a greater degree of light reduction is permitted along the top edge only if the product is transparent, does not extend into the AS-1 portion, and does not extend more than 6 inches from the top — (5)(e). Clear film that reduces or eliminates ultraviolet light may be applied to windshields — (5)(e) | |
| Front side windows | Light transmission 24% or more; total reflectance 35% or less — (5)(a) | |
| Rear side windows | 24% / reflectance 35% or less — (5)(a). Darker than 24% behind the driver is allowed on vehicles the manufacturer identifies as a truck, motor home, or multipurpose passenger vehicle (and on hearses, collector vehicles, limousines, passenger buses, ambulances) if reflectance stays at 35% or less — (5)(b) | |
| Rear window | 24% / reflectance 35% or less — (5)(a); the (5)(b) vehicle-class exception applies to "any window to the rear of the driver" |
How to Read These Numbers
- Windshield: The windshield rule controls the strip at the top of the glass and how far film or a visor band may extend down. Most states allow a non-reflective strip above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front side windows: Front side windows — driver and front passenger — are the most tightly regulated and the ones checked first at a traffic stop or inspection.
- Rear side windows: Rear side windows are usually allowed darker than the fronts, and on SUVs, trucks and vans they are sometimes exempt from the passenger-car limit.
- Rear window: The rear window rule often interacts with side mirrors: darker rear glass typically requires dual outside mirrors.
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Washington Tint Law Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in Washington?
For front side windows, Washington allows tint down to Light transmission 24% or more; total reflectance 35% or less — (5)(a) — the VLT MAX. Rear windows may allow darker film; check the table above for each position.
What happens if my tint is darker than Washington allows?
Over-dark tint can draw a citation and, in many states, a fix-it order requiring the film to be removed and the vehicle re-inspected. Laws also change — verify the current statute before tinting.