How dark can your window tint be in Texas? Here's what the law says

Texas has strict rules about how dark your vehicle's window tint can be. If you're thinking about tinting your car in Travis County or anywhere else in Texas, it's worth understanding the law before making any changes.

Window tint isn't illegal in Texas, but state law limits how dark it can be. If your tint doesn't meet state standards, your vehicle could fail inspection or create other legal issues.

Here's what to know.

What are the legal window tint percentages in Texas?

The Texas Administrative Code sets standards for windshield and side-window tint.

For windshields:

• Tint may only be applied above the AS-1 line. If there is no AS-1 line, the tint must end no more than 5 inches below the top of the windshield.
• Tint may not be red, amber or blue.
• Combined with the factory glass, the tint must allow at least 25% of visible light to pass through.
• Combined with the factory glass, the tint may reflect no more than 25% of visible light.
• A clear, untinted UV film may be applied anywhere on the windshield without a medical exemption.

Below is an example of where the tint is allowed to be applied on the windshield. 

Can I get a medical exemption for darker window tint?

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, motorists who need darker tint on the two front side windows because of a medical condition must obtain a medical exemption.

To qualify, drivers must obtain a signed statement from a licensed physician or licensed optometrist that:

• Identifies the driver or vehicle occupant.
• States that darker window tint is medically necessary to protect that person's health.

Drivers must also:

• Present the signed medical exemption during the vehicle inspection.
• Keep the exemption in the vehicle and provide it to law enforcement during a traffic stop if requested.

According to DPS, the signed statement serves as proof of the medical exemption.

What types of window tint are illegal in Texas?

Texas law prohibits window tint that is more than 25% reflective, meaning highly mirrored finishes are not allowed.

Here's how the rules vary by window:

Front side windows: Must allow more than 25% of visible light to pass through. These standards are among the state's most strictly enforced because they allow officers to see inside vehicles during traffic stops.

Back side windows: No restrictions apply under Texas law.

Rear window: There are no tint restrictions if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides that provide the driver with a view of the roadway at least 200 feet behind the vehicle.

What is the Texas window tint compliance sticker?

Texas law requires window tint manufacturers to certify that their film complies with state standards. A compliance label must be installed between the tint film and the driver's side window glass.

Read this story on statesman.com