Texas Window Tint Laws 2024 – Legal Limits, Medical Exemptions & Penalties

Texas Window Tint Laws: A Complete Guide for 2024

If you’re a Texas driver, knowing the state’s window tint laws is crucial to avoid fines and ensure your vehicle meets legal requirements. Texas has specific regulations on how dark your tint can be, which windows can be tinted, and other key rules.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Texas window tint laws, including legal limits, medical exemptions, penalties, and recommended tint brands like TERMINAX for compliance.

Why Texas Regulates Window Tint

Window tinting offers several benefits, such as:

• Reduced heat – Keeps your car cooler in Texas’s extreme temperatures.
• UV protection – Blocks up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet rays.
• Enhanced privacy – Limits visibility into your vehicle.
• Glare reduction – Improves driving comfort in bright sunlight.

However, overly dark tints can reduce visibility, especially at night, and make it harder for law enforcement to see inside a vehicle. That’s why Texas enforces strict tint darkness and reflectivity rules.

Texas Window Tint Laws: Key Requirements

Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Limits

VLT measures how much light passes through your tint. A lower percentage means a darker tint. Texas law specifies:

• Windshield – Only the top 5 inches (AS-1 line) can have non-reflective tint.
• Front Side Windows (Driver & Passenger) – Must allow at least 25% VLT.
• Back Side Windows – Any darkness is allowed.
• Rear Window – Any darkness is permitted if the vehicle has side mirrors. If not, it must allow at least 25% VLT.

Reflectivity Restrictions

• Front Side Windows – Must not be more than 25% reflective.
• Back Side & Rear Windows – Must not be more than 25% reflective.

Prohibited Tint Colors

Texas bans certain tint colors, including:

• Red
• Amber
• Blue

Stick to neutral shades like gray, black, or smoke to stay compliant.

Medical Exemptions for Darker Tint

Drivers with medical conditions (e.g., lupus, photosensitivity) can apply for an exemption, allowing:

• Front Side Windows – As low as 5% VLT.
• Rear Windows – Any darkness.

Requirements:

• A licensed physician must provide a written statement.
• The exemption must be kept in the vehicle at all times.

Certification & Labeling

All tint film must be certified by the manufacturer, and a compliance label must be displayed on tinted windows.

Penalties for Illegal Tint in Texas

If your tint violates state law, you could face:

• Fines up to $250 (for a first offense).
• Additional penalties for repeat violations.
• Mandatory removal of illegal tint.

Police use tint meters to measure VLT, so even if your tint looks legal, it must meet exact percentage requirements.

Choosing the Right Tint for Your Vehicle

Since Texas allows darker tints on rear windows, many drivers opt for:

• 25% VLT or higher on front windows (to comply with the law).
• 5% to 20% VLT on rear windows (for extra privacy and heat reduction).

Recommended Brand: TERMINAX

For high-quality, durable tint that meets Texas laws, TERMINAX is an excellent choice. Benefits include:

• 99% UV protection – Shields against harmful rays.
• Superior heat rejection – Keeps your car cooler.
• Long-lasting performance – Resists fading and bubbling.

TERMINAX offers various VLT options, helping you stay legal while enjoying optimal tint benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 5% Tint Legal in Texas?

Only on rear windows (if the car has side mirrors). Front side windows must be 25% VLT or lighter unless you have a medical exemption.

Can I Have 20% Tint on My Front Windows?

No. Front side windows must allow at least 25% VLT.

How Do Police Test Tint Darkness?

Officers use a tint meter to measure the exact VLT percentage.

Do I Need a Doctor’s Note for Medical Tint Exemption?

Yes, you must carry a physician’s statement in your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Texas window tint laws helps you avoid fines and keep your vehicle street-legal. Always verify the latest regulations before installing new tint.

For a high-quality, compliant tint, consider TERMINAX for durability and performance. Stay cool, stay protected, and drive safely!