A Guide to Window Tint Laws in the USA (State by State)

Verified against the statute: 26 states

Most window tint charts online copy each other, and none of them show you the law. Every row in the table below was read directly from the state’s own statute or administrative code on 14 August 2026, and every citation links to the official government page so you can check it yourself.

VLT means visible light transmission — the percentage of light the window lets through. A lower number means darker tint. Where a state gives a tolerance such as ±3%, that is the enforcement margin written into its own law.

State	Front side	Back side	Rear window	Windshield	Reflectivity	Statute
Florida	28%	15% (6% MPV)	15%	AS-1 line	25% front / 35% rear	Fla. Stat. §§ 316.2953, .2954, .2952
Idaho	35% (±3%)	20% (±3%)	35% (±3%)	No tint below AS-1	35% max	Idaho Code § 49-944
Kansas	35% combined	35% combined	35% combined	Not below AS-1	Must be nonreflective	K.S.A. 8-1749a
Maine	35% net	35% net	35% net	AS-1, or top 5 in	Reflective material prohibited	29-A M.R.S. § 1916
Maryland	35%	Not separately stated	Not separately stated	AS-1, or top 5 in	Not stated	Md. Transp. § 22-406
Massachusetts	Tint not permitted	35%	35%	Top 6 in only	35% max (rear)	M.G.L. c. 90, § 9D
Michigan	No VLT figure in law	Permitted	Permitted (with both side mirrors)	Top 4 in of front side windows	35% max	MCL 257.709
Minnesota	Not separately stated	50% (±3%)	50% (±3%)	Not separately stated	20% max (±3%)	Minn. Stat. § 169.71
Missouri	35% (±3%)	Not separately stated	Not separately stated	Factory band only	35% max (±3%)	Mo. Rev. Stat. § 307.173
Montana	24%	14%	14%	Clear below AS-1	35% max	Mont. Code Ann. § 61-9-405
Nebraska	35%	20%	20%	Clear below AS-1	35% max	Neb. Rev. Stat. § 60-6,257
New York	70%	Not separately stated	70%	70%, except top 6 in	Not stated	N.Y. Veh. & Traf. Law § 375(12-a)
North Carolina	35%	35%	35%	Top 5 in only	20% max	N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-127
North Dakota	35%	35%	35%	70%; AS-1 or top 5 in exempt	Nonreflective required	N.D.C.C. § 39-21-39
Ohio	50% (±3%)	50% (±3%)	50% (±3%)	70% (±3%); AS-1 or top 5 in	No reflectorised material	Ohio Admin. Code 4501-41-03
Oregon	35% total (film ≥50%)	35% total	35% total	Top 6 in may be darker	Not stated	ORS 815.221
Texas	25%	25%	25%	AS-1, or top 5 in	25% max	Tex. Transp. Code § 547.613
Virginia	50%	35%	35%	Manufacturer sunshield area only	20% max	Va. Code § 46.2-1052
Washington	24%	24%	24%	Top 6 in, not into AS-1	35% max	RCW 46.37.430
West Virginia	35%	35%	35%	AS-1, or top 5 in	Not stated	W. Va. Code § 17C-15-36a
Washington D.C.	70% (55% mini-vans)	50% (35% mini-vans)	50% (35% mini-vans)	AS-1, or top 5 in	Not stated	D.C. Code § 50-2207.02
Iowa	70% (front glass)	Not verified	Not verified	70%	Not stated	Iowa Admin. Code 761—450.5
Delaware	Tied to FMVSS 205	Tied to FMVSS 205	Tied to FMVSS 205	Per FMVSS 205	Not stated	21 Del. C. § 4313
Arizona	33% (±3%)	No VLT limit stated	No VLT limit stated	Not verified	35% max (±3%)	Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 28-959.01
California	70% (film itself ≥88%)	No VLT limit	No VLT limit	Clear material only	Must not increase glare	Cal. Veh. Code § 26708
Pennsylvania	70%	70%	70%	Not verified	Not stated	67 Pa. Code § 175.67

Where a cell says “not separately stated” or “not verified”, the statute we read did not set a distinct figure for that window. We have left it blank rather than fill it with a number we could not confirm.

A few entries need a note. California restricts only the front side windows — the film must itself pass 88% and the finished window must meet the federal 70% standard, while side windows behind the driver and the rear window have no VLT limit. Arizona likewise sets a transmission figure only for the front side windows; behind the driver only the reflectance limit applies. Massachusetts does not set a percentage for front side windows — it prohibits tint there outright. Michigan regulates where tint may be applied rather than setting a front-window VLT figure. Delaware ties its rule to the federal FMVSS 205 standard instead of naming a percentage. Oregon applies two tests at once: the film itself must pass 50% and the total through the glass must pass 35%.

The remaining states are not yet verified. Many state legislatures publish their code through JavaScript-only viewers, block automated access, or license it to a paid provider, which makes primary-source checking slow. We are working through them and will add each state to this table as we confirm it against the statute. Figures elsewhere on this page have not been checked against the primary source in the same way — treat them as a starting point and confirm with your state before relying on them.

Applying a tint to your car’s windows is a popular modification that offers privacy, reduces sun glare, and protects the interior from UV damage. However, before you decide on that sleek, dark look, it’s crucial to understand the laws that govern window tinting. In the United States, these regulations are not set at the federal level; each state has its own rules. This can cause confusion, especially if you travel or move across state lines. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of window tint laws across the USA. We will explore why these laws exist, detail the specific regulations for each state, and offer a quick-reference chart to help you stay compliant. Understanding these rules is essential for avoiding fines, ensuring your vehicle passes inspection, and maintaining road safety for yourself and others.

Why Window Tint Laws Vary by State

The primary reason for window tint laws is public safety. Regulations aim to balance the benefits for drivers—like reduced heat and UV protection—and the need for clear visibility for both the driver and law enforcement officers. Darkly tinted windows can reduce a driver’s ability to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles, especially at night or in poor weather. They also present a safety risk for police officers during traffic stops, as they cannot see inside the vehicle to assess potential threats. Because traffic safety is managed at the state level, each legislature has developed standards based on local priorities and conditions. This has resulted in a patchwork of regulations across the country. A perfectly legal tint in Florida might be grounds for a ticket in California. These laws are built around a key measurement: Visible Light Transmission (VLT).

Understanding Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

Visible Light Transmission is the percentage of visible light passing through your window glass and tint film. A lower VLT percentage means a darker tint. For example, a 70% VLT is a very light tint, allowing most light to pass through, while a 5% VLT is a very dark “limo” tint that blocks almost all light. State laws specify the minimum VLT percentage allowed for different windows on a vehicle. It’s important to remember that factory-installed glass is not 100% clear; it typically has a VLT of around 70-85%. When you apply an aftermarket film, the final VLT combines the glass and the film. A professional installer can measure the final VLT to meet legal standards.

State-by-State Breakdown of Window Tint Laws

Navigating the specific window tint laws for each state can be challenging. Below is a detailed breakdown of the regulations for all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The rules are generally broken down by window location:

Windshield: Most states allow a non-reflective tint on the top portion of the windshield, often down to the AS-1 line marked by the manufacturer.
Front Side Windows: These are the driver and front passenger windows. Regulations for these windows are typically the strictest.
Back Side Windows: These are the rear passenger windows.
Rear Window: The back windshield.

Many states have more lenient rules for the back and rear windows. Additionally, some states have regulations regarding tint color and reflectivity. Medical exemptions for darker tints are often available for individuals with specific health conditions, but this requires official documentation. (Note: Laws are subject to change. Always verify the current regulations with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or a local law enforcement agency.)

Alabama

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 32% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 32% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 32% of light in.

Alaska

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 40% of light in.

Arizona

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 33% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Arkansas

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% of light in.

California

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 4 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in (with some exceptions for factory tint).
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Colorado

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 4 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 27% of light in.

Connecticut

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Delaware

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

District of Columbia

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 50% of light in.

Florida

Full guide to Florida window tint laws →

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 28% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 15% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 15% of light in.

Georgia

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 32% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 32% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 32% of light in.

Hawaii

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 4 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Idaho

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Illinois

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in. (Windows behind the driver can be darker if the vehicle has dual side mirrors.)

Indiana

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 30% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 30% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 30% of light in.

Iowa

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Kansas

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Kentucky

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 18% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 18% of light in.

Louisiana

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 12% of light in.

Maine

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used (on vehicles with dual side mirrors).
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used (on vehicles with dual side mirrors).

Maryland

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Massachusetts

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Michigan

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 4 inches.
Front Side Windows: Any darkness can be used on the top 4 inches.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Minnesota

Windshield: No tint allowed.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 50% of light in.

Mississippi

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 28% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 28% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 28% of light in.

Missouri

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Montana

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 14% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 14% of light in.

Nebraska

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 20% of light in.

Nevada

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

New Hampshire

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: No film tint permitted.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

New Jersey

Windshield: Tint is prohibited.
Front Side Windows: Tint is not permitted.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

New Mexico

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 20% of light in.

New York

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

North Carolina

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

North Dakota

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Ohio

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Oklahoma

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Oregon

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Pennsylvania

Windshield: No tint allowed.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 70% of light in.

Rhode Island

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 70% of light in.

South Carolina

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 27% of light in.

South Dakota

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 20% of light in.

Tennessee

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Texas

Full guide to Texas window tint laws →

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used (if vehicle has dual side mirrors).

Utah

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 43% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Vermont

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: No aftermarket tint allowed.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Virginia

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Washington

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 24% of light in.

West Virginia

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Wisconsin

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in.

Wyoming

Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 28% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 28% of light in.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.

Window Tint Laws by State Chart

For quick reference, this chart summarizes the VLT percentage limits for passenger vehicles across the United States. “Any” indicates no VLT percentage requirement for that window.

State	Front Side VLT	Back Side VLT	Rear Window VLT
Alabama	32%	32%	32%
Alaska	70%	40%	40%
Arizona	33%	Any	Any
Arkansas	25%	25%	10%
California	70%	Any	Any
Colorado	27%	27%	27%
Connecticut	35%	Any	Any
Delaware	70%	Any	Any
Dist. of Columbia	70%	50%	50%
Florida	28%	15%	15%
Georgia	32%	32%	32%
Hawaii	35%	35%	35%
Idaho	35%	20%	35%
Illinois	35%	35%	35%
Indiana	30%	30%	30%
Iowa	70%	Any	Any
Kansas	35%	35%	35%
Kentucky	35%	18%	18%
Louisiana	40%	25%	12%
Maine	35%	Any	Any
Maryland	35%	35%	35%
Massachusetts	35%	35%	35%
Michigan	Top 4″ Only	Any	Any
Minnesota	50%	50%	50%
Mississippi	28%	28%	28%
Missouri	35%	Any	Any
Montana	24%	14%	14%
Nebraska	35%	20%	20%
Nevada	35%	Any	Any
New Hampshire	None	35%	35%
New Jersey	None	Any	Any
New Mexico	20%	20%	20%
New York	70%	Any	Any
North Carolina	35%	35%	35%
North Dakota	50%	Any	Any
Ohio	50%	Any	Any
Oklahoma	25%	25%	Any
Oregon	35%	35%	35%
Pennsylvania	70%	70%	70%
Rhode Island	70%	70%	70%
South Carolina	27%	27%	27%
South Dakota	35%	20%	20%
Tennessee	35%	35%	35%
Texas	25%	Any	Any
Utah	43%	Any	Any
Vermont	None	Any	Any
Virginia	50%	35%	35%
Washington	24%	24%	24%
West Virginia	35%	35%	35%
Wisconsin	50%	35%	35%
Wyoming	28%	28%	Any

The Importance of Compliance

Familiarizing yourself with your state’s window tint laws is more than just a suggestion—it’s a legal requirement. Violating these regulations can lead to fines, “fix-it” tickets that require you to remove the illegal tint, and failed vehicle safety inspections. In some cases, illicit modifications can even affect an insurance claim after an accident. Before investing in window tinting, consult a reputable, professional installer. They are experts in local laws and can help you choose a product that provides the benefits you want while keeping your vehicle fully compliant. By adhering to the regulations, you ensure your safety, the safety of others on the road, and a hassle-free driving experience.

Before you rely on this chart

This is a summary table covering 50 states. Tint limits are amended fairly often, medical exemptions vary, and several states treat SUVs and vans differently from sedans. The governing text is always your own state’s vehicle code — check it, or ask a licensed installer, before spending money on film. Where we have published a detailed state guide it is linked from that state’s entry above.

Related guides

Florida window tint laws — full guide with statute citations
Texas window tint laws — full guide with statute citations
Why do window tint laws exist?
More driving law guides

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