Texas window tint laws
In Texas, front side windows must allow at least 25% VLT. Back side and rear windows may be any darkness. The windshield allows non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line (or the top 5 inches). Medical exemptions are available through Texas DPS.
Tint darkness limits in Texas
In Texas, the amount of light that must pass through your windows is set by statute. Darker film has a lower VLT percentage. The rules below apply to aftermarket window film; factory tint on back windows is usually permitted regardless of percentage.
Sedan — VLT limits
SUV / van / truck — VLT limits
Reflectivity — sedan
Reflectivity — SUV / van
Windshield, mirrors, colors & certification
Windshield
Non-reflective tint is allowed on the windshield above the AS-1 line or, if no AS-1 line is present, in the top five inches of the windshield.
Tint placed on the windshield must not be red, amber, or blue, and must not increase reflection above 25%.
Side mirrors
Dual outside mirrors are required when any window behind the driver has aftermarket tint.
Restricted colors
- Red, amber, and blue tint are prohibited on any window.
Compliance sticker
A label or sticker identifying the tint film must be affixed between the film and the glass in the lower corner of each tinted window, or on the window frame.
Film certification
Tint manufacturers must certify their film in Texas, and only certified film may be installed on vehicles.
Penalties & enforcement
Violating Texas window-tint law is typically a fix-it ticket with a fine that varies by county. Unresolved violations can affect vehicle safety inspection.
Darker tint with a medical exemption in Texas
Texas drivers with a qualifying medical condition can obtain a window-tint medical exemption through the Texas Department of Public Safety using the MOA-1 form, which must be completed by a licensed physician or optometrist.
Who typically qualifies: Drivers with a medical condition diagnosed by a licensed physician or optometrist that necessitates additional protection from the sun.
Renewal / expiration: An approved exemption typically remains valid as long as the underlying condition persists. A copy of the completed MOA-1 form should be kept in the vehicle.
What you need to apply
- Completed Texas DPS Form MOA-1 signed by a licensed physician or optometrist.
- Keep the signed MOA-1 form in the vehicle at all times.
- Tint film must still comply with color and reflectivity restrictions even with an exemption.
Common mistakes drivers make in Texas
- Tinting front side windows darker than 25% VLT without a medical exemption.
- Using red, amber, or blue tint on any window — colored film is prohibited.
- Installing uncertified film. Texas requires manufacturer-certified tint film.
- Forgetting to install the compliance sticker in the lower corner of the tinted window.
Texas tint law FAQ
Is 20% tint legal on the front side windows in Texas?
No. Texas requires at least 25% VLT on front side windows, so 20% is darker than allowed. Back side and rear windows, however, may be any darkness.
Can my SUV’s back windows be limo tinted in Texas?
Yes. Texas allows any VLT on back side windows and the rear window for any vehicle, including limo-dark (5%) film.
Does my windshield tint need to be removable?
Tint placed on the windshield above the AS-1 line (or the top 5 inches) must be non-reflective, non-colored, and not exceed reflectivity limits. It does not need to be removable.
Does Texas require certified tint film?
Yes. Tint film installed on vehicles must be certified by the manufacturer. Installers should be able to show you the certification documentation.
How do I get a medical tint exemption in Texas?
Complete Texas DPS Form MOA-1 with a licensed physician or optometrist, keep the signed form in your vehicle, and ensure your tint still meets reflectivity and color limits.
Official references
Sources below are the primary official documents we consulted for this page. If you notice an outdated link or discrepancy, please report it to our editors.
Editor’s notes
VLT and color values align with Tex. Transp. Code § 547.613. Texas DPS publishes a consumer explainer that confirms these values.
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