Washington Window Tint Laws: Complete Legal Guide
Washington state takes window tinting seriously, and there are specific rules you must follow to stay on the right side of the law. Breaking these regulations can result in fines, failed vehicle inspections, and the requirement to remove your tint. Understanding what's legal in Washington will help you customize your vehicle safely and avoid costly penalties.
Quick Reference Table
| Window | Legal VLT % | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front Windshield | 70% | Only non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | 50% | Driver and passenger windows |
| Rear Side Windows | Darkness Permitted | No minimum restriction |
| Rear Window | Darkness Permitted | No minimum restriction |
Understanding VLT (Visible Light Transmission)
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission, which is a percentage that measures how much visible light passes through your window tint. A higher VLT percentage means lighter, more transparent tint that allows more light through, while a lower percentage means darker tint that blocks more light. For example, 70% VLT blocks 30% of light, while 50% VLT blocks 50% of light.
In Washington, VLT limits apply to your front windshield and front side windows, which are the areas most critical for driver visibility and law enforcement safety. The state sets these limits to ensure drivers can see the road clearly and to allow police officers to see inside the vehicle during traffic stops. Rear windows have no VLT restrictions, giving you more flexibility for privacy in the back of your vehicle.
Front Windshield Rules
In Washington, your front windshield may be tinted, but with strict limitations. You can apply non-reflective tint only above the AS-1 line, which is typically around 5–6 inches from the top of the windshield. This section can be any darkness level as long as it's non-reflective.
Below the AS-1 line, you may tint your windshield, but only to 70% VLT. This means 30% of visible light must be blocked by the tint. Many drivers opt for lighter tints in this zone to ensure compliance while maintaining a sleek appearance. Reflective tints are prohibited on the front windshield, so avoid any metallic or mirror-like finishes.
Side Window Rules
Washington distinguishes between front side windows and rear side windows, with different rules for each. Your front side windows (driver and passenger windows) must allow at least 50% of visible light to pass through, meaning you can block up to 50% of light with your tint. This is slightly more restrictive than some neighboring states, so make sure your installer knows Washington's specific rules.
Rear side windows have no VLT restrictions in Washington, so you can tint them as dark as you'd like. This applies to all windows behind the front passenger and driver windows. Many drivers take advantage of this flexibility to achieve a uniform dark appearance across the back of their vehicle while keeping the front windows within legal limits.
Rear Window Rules
Your rear window (the back windshield) has no darkness restrictions in Washington, allowing you to tint it to complete darkness if desired. This is particularly useful for vehicles with rear passengers, as it provides additional privacy and protection from UV rays. Since the rear window doesn't affect driver forward visibility, the state places no limits on how dark your rear tint can be.
If your vehicle has dual mirrors, you still must comply with side window restrictions for any windows forward of those mirrors. Rear windows are defined as those behind the rear wheels, so ensure your installer understands where your vehicle's rear window officially begins to avoid compliance issues.
Restricted Colors
Washington does not explicitly ban red or amber tints, but the state prohibits any tint color that impairs visibility or creates a safety hazard. In practice, this means tints with a strong red or amber hue that significantly distort color perception or light transmission may be challenged by law enforcement. Your safest bet is to stick with traditional gray, smoke, or neutral-colored tints that don't alter the appearance of objects outside your vehicle.
Reflective or mirrored tints are prohibited on all windows except as part of aftermarket sun shades on side and rear windows. If you're considering an unconventional tint color, check with a local installer first—they'll know what law enforcement in your area typically allows.
Medical Exemptions
Washington does allow medical exemptions for window tinting if you have a documented medical condition that requires UV protection. Common qualifying conditions include lupus, photosensitivity disorders, and severe sun allergies. To obtain a medical exemption, you'll need to submit a written request to the Washington Department of Licensing, along with supporting medical documentation from a licensed healthcare provider.
The exemption process can take several weeks, and you'll receive approval paperwork that must be kept in your vehicle at all times. Once approved, you're allowed to tint beyond the normal legal limits for medical reasons. However, your vehicle may still be subject to inspection, so having your exemption documentation readily available is essential.
Penalties for Illegal Tint
If you're pulled over with illegal window tint in Washington, you can receive a traffic citation. Penalties vary, but you may face a fine of up to $124 for a first offense. In many cases, law enforcement will issue a "fix-it ticket," which gives you 30 days to remove or replace your tint and have it inspected by law enforcement to prove compliance.
Failing to address an illegal tint violation can result in your vehicle failing state inspection, which prevents vehicle registration renewal. If you accumulate multiple violations, fines increase and you may face additional penalties. The cheapest solution is ensuring compliance before tinting—work with a knowledgeable installer from the start.
Find a Trusted Tint Shop in Washington
Choosing a certified, experienced window tinting installer in Washington is the best way to ensure your vehicle stays compliant with state law. Visit TintingSource.com to find local window tint shops in your area that understand Washington's regulations inside and out. Our directory connects you with installers who prioritize quality work and legal compliance, so you can customize your vehicle with confidence.