Understanding Texas window tint laws is essential before getting your vehicle tinted. Whether you're new to Texas or looking to upgrade your current tint, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about legal tint limits, exemptions, and how to stay compliant in 2026.
Texas Window Tint Laws at a Glance
Texas Transportation Code, Section 547.613 regulates window tint darkness using VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentages. VLT measures how much light passes through your window—the lower the percentage, the darker the tint.
Legal VLT Requirements by Window
For Sedans, Coupes, and Cars:
Windshield: Tint allowed only on top 5 inches OR above the AS-1 line, must allow more than 25% VLT
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% VLT
Back Side Windows: Any darkness permitted
Rear Window: Any darkness permitted
For SUVs, Trucks, and Vans:
Windshield: Tint allowed only on top 5 inches OR above the AS-1 line, must allow more than 25% VLT
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% VLT
Back Side Windows: Any darkness permitted
Rear Window: Any darkness permitted
What Does 25% VLT Look Like?
A 25% VLT tint allows one-quarter of visible light to pass through. This creates a noticeably darker appearance while still allowing reasonable visibility from outside. For reference:
70% VLT: Very light, almost clear
50% VLT: Light tint, slight shading
35% VLT: Medium tint (illegal for front windows in Texas)
25% VLT: Legal limit for front windows in Texas
20% VLT: Dark tint (rear only in Texas)
5% VLT: "Limo tint" (rear only in Texas)
Additional Texas Tint Regulations
Reflectivity Rules:
Texas law also limits how reflective your tint can be. Front side windows cannot be more than 25% reflective. Back side windows cannot be more than 25% reflective.
Color Restrictions:
Texas prohibits certain tint colors including red, amber, and blue tint (some exceptions for blue).
Medical Exemptions in Texas
Texas allows medical exemptions for individuals with conditions requiring protection from sunlight. To qualify, you need to obtain a signed statement from a licensed physician. The statement must specify the medical condition and indicate that darker tint is necessary. Keep the exemption document in your vehicle at all times.
Qualifying conditions may include lupus, photosensitivity disorders, melanoma or skin cancer history, albinism, certain eye conditions, and other conditions as determined by your physician.
Penalties for Illegal Tint in Texas
Driving with illegal window tint in Texas can result in:
First offense: Fine up to $250
Subsequent offenses: Fines can increase
Failed vehicle inspection: Your car won't pass state inspection
Fix-it ticket: May be required to remove or replace illegal tint
Tips for Staying Legal
1. Choose a Reputable Installer
Professional tint shops like 713 Tint Lab know Texas laws and will ensure your tint is compliant. We'll never install illegal tint on your front windows without proper documentation.
2. Get Documentation
Always get a receipt showing the VLT percentage of your installed tint. Keep this with your vehicle registration.
3. Consider Factory Tint
Many vehicles come with factory-tinted rear windows. This is already calculated into your VLT, so adding aftermarket tint to factory-tinted glass will make it darker.
4. Go Darker in the Back
Since Texas allows any darkness on rear windows, many drivers choose 5-20% VLT for the back while keeping front windows at the legal 25%.
Why Quality Tint Matters for Texas Heat
Beyond legal compliance, quality window tint is essential for surviving Texas summers. Even at 25% VLT, premium ceramic tint can block up to 96% of infrared heat, reject 99% of harmful UV rays, reduce interior temperatures by 40-60°F, protect your dashboard and upholstery from fading, and reduce glare for safer driving.
Get Legal, Quality Tint at 713 Tint Lab
At 713 Tint Lab in Houston, we specialize in legal, high-performance window tint installations. Our team will help you choose the perfect tint that maximizes heat rejection while staying 100% compliant with Texas law.
Questions about Texas tint laws? Contact us today for a free consultation. We'll explain your options and help you get the best tint for your vehicle—legally.