Virginia Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
As of 2026, Virginia allows 50% VLT on front and 35% on the back side windows on a sedan. Windshield tint: Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line.
Virginia VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
AS-1 line
Front Side
50%
VLT minimum
Back Side
35%
VLT minimum
Rear
35%
VLT minimum
Red, amber, yellow tints prohibited. Side mirrors required if rear tinted. 7% tolerance.
Reflectivity limit: 20% maximum
Virginia VLT Limits (2026, SUV & Truck)
Same VLT limits as a sedan — the difference is in the conditions below.
Windshield
AS-1 line
Front Side
50%
VLT minimum
Back Side
35%
VLT minimum
Rear
35%
VLT minimum
Red, amber, yellow tints prohibited. 7% tolerance.
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Window tint in Virginia
Virginia requires 50% on front sides, which is stricter than average, and sedan back and rear windows are limited to 35%. SUVs and trucks follow the same rules with no extra back-window flexibility, making Virginia more restrictive than many neighboring states. The 7% tolerance is a small cushion, but this state doesn't give a lot of room to work with.
How Virginia compares
| State | Front | Back | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 50% | 35% | 35% |
| Maryland | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Washington D.C. | 70% | 50% | 50% |
| West Virginia | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Kentucky | 35% | 18% | 18% |
| Tennessee | 35% | 35% | 35% |
Tint ticket costs in Virginia
First Offense
$110 traffic infraction
Repeat Offense
$110+ per offense
Medical exemptions in Virginia
Available via DMV form MED-2. Physician must certify condition. Allows front side windows as dark as 35% VLT. Must display DMV-issued sticker and carry letter.
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Tint laws change frequently. Always verify current regulations with a certified installer or your local DMV before making any decisions. Car Editor is not responsible for any fines, penalties, or legal issues resulting from the use of this information.
Nearby States
Driving across state lines? Check neighboring tint laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal window tint in Virginia?
Front side windows need a minimum of 50% VLT. Back side windows require 35% VLT, and the rear window requires 35% VLT.
Are window tint laws different for SUVs and trucks in Virginia?
The VLT limits are the same for both body styles. A sedan in Virginia needs 50% VLT on the front side windows, 35% VLT on the back side windows and 35% VLT on the rear window. An SUV, van or pickup needs 50% VLT on the front side windows, 35% VLT on the back side windows and 35% VLT on the rear window. Red, amber, yellow tints prohibited. 7% tolerance.
How much is a tint ticket in Virginia?
A first offense is typically $110 traffic infraction. Repeat offenses can cost $110+ per offense. Fix-it tickets are available, giving you time to remove or replace the film.
What is combined VLT and why does it matter?
Your car's factory glass already blocks some light (usually around 70-80% VLT). When you add tint film, the combined VLT is lower than the film alone. For example, 35% film on 75% factory glass gives you about 26% combined VLT. The calculator above does this math for you.
Can I preview tint on my car before installing?
Yes. Car Editor's AI tint simulator lets you upload a photo of your car and see any tint level applied to it in seconds. You can try different VLT percentages on your actual vehicle before committing.
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