Washington Window Tint Laws 2024

Are you looking to tint your windows? Great choice! Window tinting offers a variety of benefits, including UV protection, reduced glare, and improved privacy. But before you get your windows tinted, it’s crucial to understand the Washington tint laws.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about tint darkness, reflection, and legal tint in Washington.

Window tint laws in Washington state were enacted in 1993 and the darkest legal tint limit in Washington is 24% of VLT for all windows of sedans except the front windshield.

Washington State Tint Laws:

The darkness of your window tint is measured by its Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which indicates the percentage of light allowed through the tinted window. WA tint laws have different VLT requirements for various vehicle types.

Legal tint darkness for Cars:

• Windshield: Only non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches.
• Front side windows: It should be allowed more than 24% of VLT.
• Back side windows: It should be allowed more than 24% of VLT.
• Rear window: It should be allowed more than 24% of VLT.

Legal tint darkness for Trucks:

• Windshield: Only non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches.
• Front side windows: It should be allowed more than 24% of VLT.
• Backside windows: Any darkness level is permitted.
• Rear window: Any darkness level is permitted.

Important Note: It’s crucial to remember that these are the minimum VLT requirements. You can have a lighter tint (higher VLT percentage) as long as it meets the legal limit. However, anything darker than the specified VLT is considered illegal.

Window Tint Reflection in Washington:

Washington tint laws allow a certain percentage of tint reflection for all types of vehicles.

Tint Reflection for Cars:

• Front side windows: It should not be reflective more than 35%.
• Back Side windows: It should not be reflective more than 35%.

Tint Reflection for Trucks:

• Front side windows: It should not be reflective more than 35%.
• Back Side windows: It should not be reflective more than 35%.

Washington Window Tinting Rules and Regulations:

• Side mirrors: Both side mirrors are required in case of a tinted rear window.
• Restricted Colors: It is illegal to use red, amber, and yellow colors for car window tinting.
• Certificates: Film manufacturers need to certify the film they are selling in the state. Ask your dealer if they are using certified films.
• Stickers: A tint certification sticker is required between the film and the glass on the driver’s side window.
• Medical exemptions: Washington state allows medical exemption for special tinting.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

• Citations: A citation for violating the Washington tint law can lead to fines ranging from $100 to $300.
• Correction Orders: You may be issued a correction order, requiring you to remove the illegal tint or to have it adjusted to meet the legal VLT specifications.
• Registration Denial: In extreme cases, your vehicle’s registration renewal may be denied until the tint violation is corrected.

Important Tips:

• Choose a Reputable Tinting Shop: Opt for a licensed and experienced window tinting professional who uses high-quality film and adheres to tinting laws in Washington and regulations.
• Verify VLT Percentage: Before installation, ensure the chosen tint film meets the legal VLT requirements for your specific vehicle windows.
• Keep the Certificate Handy: Always keep the Certificate of Compliance in your vehicle as proof of legal tint.
• Consult a Professional: If you have any questions or uncertainties regarding the regulations, consult a qualified window tinting professional or the Washington DMV.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your window tint complies with Washington state laws and keeps your ride looking sharp. Remember, a professional window tinting shop can answer any further questions you may have and ensure your tint job meets all legal requirements.

Washington Tints Laws Reference: RCW 46.37.430 Safety glazing—Sunscreening or coloring.

Information about Washington State

Seattle, the largest city, stands as a beacon of innovation and culture, home to tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Beyond the urban sprawl, the landscape unfolds into a stunning array of natural wonders, from the majestic peaks of the Cascade Range to the rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula. With vibrant cities, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, Washington offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, making it a captivating destination for residents and travelers alike.

Major cities in Washington:

Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Vancouver, Bellevue, Everett, Kent, Renton, Federal Way, Spokane Valley, Yakima, Kirkland, Bellingham, Kennewick, Auburn, Pasco, Marysville, Redmond, Sammamish, Lakewood, Richland, Shoreline, Burien, Olympia, Lacey, Edmonds, Puyallup, Bremerton, Lynnwood, Bothell, Longview, Issaquah, Wenatchee, Mount Vernon, University Place, Walla Walla, Pullman, Des Moines, Lake Stevens, SeaTac, Spanaway, Bainbridge Island, Graham, Mercer Island, Maple Valley, Camas, Mukilteo, Mountlake Terrace, Tukwila, Oak Harbor.

Counties in Washington:

King, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, Clark, Thurston, Kitsap, Whatcom, Yakima, Benton, Franklin, Skagit, Island, Cowlitz, Grant, Lewis, Grays Harbor, Skamania, Mason, Chelan, Clallam, Kittitas, Walla Walla, Whitman, Jefferson, Adams, Okanogan, Douglas, Asotin, Klickitat, Columbia, Ferry, Pend Oreille, Stevens, Lincoln, Wahkiakum, San Juan, Pacific, Garfield, Clark, Lincoln, Stevens, Columbia, Ferry, Pend Oreille, and Wahkiakum.