Window Tint Laws in Texas: What's Legal and What's Not

Texas Window Tint Laws: The Basics

In Texas, window tint is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT) — the percentage of visible light that passes through the tint. The lower the number, the darker the tint.

Here are the current legal limits in Texas:

• Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the AS-1 line (top 5 inches or top of where the AS-1 line ends). No tint below the AS-1 line.
• Front side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in (VLT of 25% or higher).
• Back side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
• Rear window: Must allow more than 25% of light in.

What VLT Numbers Mean

• 50% VLT: Very light — barely visible tint. Good for heat rejection without changing the look.
• 35% VLT: Light to medium. A common choice that's legal on all windows in Texas.
• 25% VLT: Medium-dark. The darkest legal tint for front side windows in Texas.
• 5% VLT (limo): Very dark. Not legal on front side windows in Texas.

Reflectivity Rules

Texas law also limits how reflective tint can be. Front and back side windows can't be more than 25% reflective. Metallic or mirrored tints that exceed this are not legal.

Medical Exemptions

If you have a medical condition that requires additional protection from UV rays (such as lupus, melanoma, or photosensitivity), Texas allows for a medical exemption that permits darker tint. You'll need a prescription or letter from a licensed physician.

What Happens If You're Too Dark

Illegal tint can result in:

• A traffic stop and citation
• A failed vehicle inspection
• Being required to remove the tint to pass inspection

It's not worth the hassle. Stick to legal limits.

Why Tint Anyway?

Even legal-limit tint provides real benefits:

• Heat rejection: Keeps your vehicle cooler in the Texas summer
• UV protection: Blocks up to 99% of UV rays, protecting your skin and your interior
• Glare reduction: Easier on the eyes during daytime driving
• Privacy: Makes it harder to see into your vehicle

Get It Done Right

A good tint job is about more than the film — it's about the installation. Bubbles, peeling edges, and uneven cuts are what separate a professional job from a bad one. At Auto Sounds, we use quality film and take the time to do it right.

Stop by the shop on Front Street in Tyler and we'll help you pick a tint that's legal, looks good, and does what you need it to do.