2024 Washington Legal Tint Laws Explained

Understanding 2024 Washington Tint Laws

Diving into the specifics of the 2024 Washington Tint Laws, it’s important to know that window tint darkness is gauged by the Visible Light Transmission percentage (VLT%). This critical measure defines how much light your window tint permits to pass through. The Washington State Law stipulates certain standards for this.

The law allows non-reflective tinting on the top 6 inches of your windshield. This is to ensure that your visibility is not hindered while driving. For your front and back side windows, as well as rear windows, the tinting laws vary. You’re required to allow more than 24% of light in. This rule is designed to maintain a balance between your privacy and safety concerns.

Understanding that different cars have different needs, some tinting films contain metallic elements. These are intended to reflect sunlight and reduce glare, enhancing your driving experience. However, it’s crucial to note that not all tint colors are legal under Washington tint laws. Specifically, red, gold, yellow, or black tints are prohibited. Legal tinting is required to avoid penalties.

The Washington window tint rules are quite strict, but exceptions can be made. State law allows for medical exemptions for special tinting requirements. For instance, if you have a medical condition that necessitates darker windows, you can apply for an exemption.

Reflectivity Rules in Washington

When it comes to reflectivity rules in Washington, it’s crucial to note that your front and back side windows must not exceed 35% reflectivity, according to state tint regulations. This rule helps control the amount of glare and heat produced by visible light, ensuring a safer and more comfortable driving experience.

Washington law stipulates that the window film used should contain metallic elements that help reflect incoming light. However, it’s important to remember that not all tint is allowed in the state of Washington. The window film manufacturers must certify the films they sell, ensuring they comply with the state’s stringent tinting laws.

Keep in mind that if you opt for a car window tint, especially a mirror finish, dual side mirrors are required if the back window is tinted. This rule is critical to maintain visibility and safety on the road.

Here is a concise table summarizing the key reflectivity rules in Washington:

Understanding these rules will help you choose a legal and safe window tint for your vehicle. Always ensure that your tint complies with the reflectivity rules in Washington and other requirements outlined by Washington law. This way, you’ll avoid penalties while enjoying the benefits of a professionally installed window tint.

Certificate and Sticker Regulations

Moving on from reflectivity rules, it’s essential you’re aware of the certificate and sticker regulations in Washington state for window tints. It’s not just about the aesthetic or the privacy, State Tint laws are in place for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Manufacturers of the film need to certify the film they sell in the state. This certification ensures the film’s compliance with all applicable standards set by the state. So, when you’re purchasing window tint film, ask your dealer about this certification. It’s legal by state law and ensures the tint is measured to the appropriate standards.

Now, to be in accordance with law enforcement, you need to have a sticker that identifies your window tint as legal. This sticker should be placed on the driver’s side window. This is a critical part of the certificate and sticker regulations that you need to adhere to.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to remember:

• Manufacturers must certify the film they sell.
• Ask your dealer about the certification of the film.
• You must have a sticker on the driver’s side window indicating legal tinting.
• If your back window is tinted, you need dual side mirrors.

Remember to consult your state’s guidelines and thoroughly review the appropriate legalities before getting your windows tinted. Doing so will ensure you’re not caught off guard by any unexpected regulations or fines.

Medical Exemption Provisions

In Washington State, you’re allowed to apply for a medical exemption if you have specific health conditions that require a darker window tint than what is typically permitted by law. Washington State tinting laws are in place to ensure the safety of all road users, but they also acknowledge that some individuals may have medical conditions that necessitate special considerations.

If you’re one of those individuals, you can get a tint exemption in Washington for special tint. This means that you can install a darker tint on your vehicle’s windows to shield yourself from harmful UV light or to manage other health-related conditions.

To qualify for the medical exemptions for special tint, you’re required to obtain written verification from a licensed physician. This verification should clearly state that your health condition requires a darker window tint.

When it comes to the specific window tint laws, these exemptions usually apply to all windows of passenger vehicles, not just the driver’s side. Therefore, it’s crucial to review the appropriate state guidelines to identify legal tinting limits and how to apply for the exemption.

If you would like to bypass having to fill out paperwork and dealing with the state, we can help you get an online medical exemption for window tint in Washington.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Should you fail to comply with Washington’s window tint laws, you could face a citation, typically carrying a fine of around $124. This penalty is a clear indication of how seriously the state takes its tinting laws. The legal requirements are designed to ensure road safety for all users, and non-compliance is not taken lightly.

However, the penalties for non-compliance don’t end at monetary fines. Based on the severity and frequency of your non-compliance, you could face additional consequences. These could include:

• Mandatory removal of the non-reflective tint from your vehicle’s windows.
• Potential vehicle inspection to ensure future compliance with tinting laws.
• Increased fines for repeated non-compliance.
• Possible suspension of your driving license in extreme cases.

Even if you have a medical exemption for special tint, this does not free you from legal obligations. Unauthorized use of special tint, despite the exemption, could still lead to penalties.

The rules and penalties detailed in the 2024 Washington legal tint laws explained here are subject to change. Laws can evolve, and rights reserved by the state may lead to alterations in the future. Stay updated to ensure your tinting practices are in line with the current laws. You can do so by checking with the local authorities or the Department of Licensing for the most accurate and recent information on window tinting laws and the associated penalties in Washington State.