Washington Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
As of 2026, Washington allows 24% VLT on front and 24% on the back side windows on a sedan. Windshield tint: Non-reflective tint in top 6 inches only.
Washington VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
Top 6 inches
Front Side
24%
VLT minimum
Back Side
24%
VLT minimum
Rear
24%
VLT minimum
Red, yellow, green, black tints prohibited. Side mirrors required. Film cert required. 3% tolerance.
Reflectivity limit: 35% maximum
Washington VLT Limits (2026, SUV & Truck)
Multi-purpose vehicles are held to different limits than sedans in Washington.
Windshield
Top 6 inches
Front Side
24%
VLT minimum
Back Side
Any
VLT minimum
Rear
Any
VLT minimum
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Window tint in Washington
Washington requires 24% on front sides and sedan backs also have that limit, but SUVs and trucks get any darkness on rear glass. The Pacific Northwest climate means you're dealing with significant glare even on overcast days, and the rules give you room to work with on the rear glass at least. It's a moderate state with good options for SUV owners wanting to darken the back.
How Washington compares
| State | Front | Back | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 24% | 24% | 24% |
| Oregon | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Idaho | 35% | 20% | 35% |
| South Carolina | 27% | 27% | 27% |
| South Dakota | 35% | 20% | 20% |
| Florida | 28% | 15% | 15% |
Tint ticket costs in Washington
First Offense
$136 traffic infraction
Repeat Offense
$136 per offense
Medical exemptions in Washington
Available via DOL. Physician or optometrist must certify condition. Allows any darkness on front side windows. Must carry signed medical certification at all times.
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 Washington?
Front side windows need a minimum of 24% VLT. Back side windows require 24% VLT, and the rear window requires 24% VLT.
Are window tint laws different for SUVs and trucks in Washington?
Yes. A sedan in Washington needs 24% VLT on the front side windows, 24% VLT on the back side windows and 24% VLT on the rear window. An SUV, van or pickup needs 24% VLT on the front side windows, any darkness on the back side windows and any darkness on the rear window.
How much is a tint ticket in Washington?
A first offense is typically $136 traffic infraction. Repeat offenses can cost $136 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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