Automotive window tinting is a popular alteration for car owners looking to enhance their vehicle’s appearance while also providing additional privacy. However, like in other states, Texas, certain legal restrictions and guidelines apply to window tint installations to ensure safety for all drivers who hit the road.
This article will outline various aspects of Texas car window tinting standards, including:
- The permissible limits for different types of tints;
- Exemptions for medical reasons;
- And specific regulations for different vehicle categories.
Types of Tints and Their Legal Limits in Texas
There are a certain number of factors that factor into window tint laws. These limitations generally depend on the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage AND the location of the tint on the vehicle. VLT refers to the amount of sunlight allowed to pass through the window film. This is expressed as a percentage.
When determining what is authorized by law, they can be detailed below:
Sedans
- Windshield: Non-reflective window tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top five inches of the windshield, whichever comes first. No tint is permitted below this point.
- Front Side Windows: A minimum VLT rating of 25% is required, meaning the tint must allow at least 25% of light-in.
- Rear Side Windows and Back Window: Minimum VLT of 25% for rear side windows and back window, allowing 25% of the light to pass through.
SUVs and Vans
- Windshield: Similar to sedans, non-reflective window tint is only permitted above the AS-1 line or top five inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Front side windows must allow a minimum of 25% VLT.
- Rear Side Windows and Back Window: Rear side windows and back windows in SUVs and vans can be as dark as desired, with no VLT restrictions.
Reflectiveness Restrictions and Tint Colors
Texas laws also govern the level of reflectiveness allowed in window tints to reduce glare and ensure unimpaired visibility for drivers. Reflectiveness measurements are expressed as a percentage, similar to VLT rates, and vary by vehicle type.
Sedans
- Front Side Windows: Maximum reflectiveness of 25%.
- Rear Side Windows and Back Window: Maximum reflectiveness of 25%.
SUVs and Vans
- Front Side Windows: Maximum reflectiveness of 25%.
- Rear Side Windows and Back Window: Maximum reflectiveness of 12%.
When it comes to tint colors, Texas prohibits silver, red, amber, and blue-colored tints. It is vital to note that these regulations apply to aftermarket window tints – stock car windows may have factory-installed coloring that appears similar to prohibited tint shades.
Texas Exemptions for Medical Reasons
Individuals with documented medical conditions requiring increased protection from sunlight exposure may qualify for an exemption from standard Texas window tint laws. These conditions can include, but are not limited to, lupus, porphyria, and albinism.
Persons seeking a medical exemption must obtain a prescription or written certification from a licensed healthcare professional, such as an optometrist or general practitioner. This documentation must be present in the vehicle at all times and presented during any roadside inspections or traffic stops by law enforcement officers.
Texas Window Tint Exemptions for Specific Vehicle Types
While Texas window tint laws apply uniformly across most types of automobiles, certain vehicles have exemptions due to their unique functions:
- Law Enforcement Vehicles: Police cars and emergency response vehicles may use tints that exceed normal legal limits, offering additional protection for occupants and sensitive equipment inside.
- Limos and Personal Buses: Special-use vehicles such as limousines and personal buses can have darker tints than standard automobiles for increased privacy.
- Commercial Vehicles: Business-owned vans, trucks, or other commercial vehicles can exhibit rear-side windows with lower VLT ratings if permitted by federal regulations specific to that industry.
The Dangers of Non-Compliant Window Tints in Texas
Non-compliant window tints, those not meeting the state’s Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage or reflectiveness standards, pose several dangers. Below are key risks associated with having window tints that go against Texas rules:
- Reduced Visibility for the Driver: Tints that are too dark can significantly reduce a driver’s visibility, especially under low light conditions such as during the night or in bad weather. This increases the risk of accidents as drivers may not be able to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or road hazards clearly.
- Impaired Emergency Response: In the event of an accident, excessively tinted windows can hinder emergency responders from assessing the situation inside the vehicle quickly. This can delay rescue operations and medical assistance, potentially impacting the outcomes for the vehicle occupants.
- Invalidation of Insurance: Insurance companies may refuse to cover claims involving vehicles with illegal modifications, including non-compliant window tints. This means that in the event of an accident, the vehicle owner may have to bear the cost of repairs, medical expenses, and any liabilities arising from the incident.
Have You Been Involved In a Car Accident, Call Us For a Free Consultation
Understanding Texas window tint laws is essential for drivers who choose to install aftermarket tints on their vehicles. It is also important for other drivers and individuals who have been involved in an accident with a vehicle that was overly tinted.
If you’re exploring your legal options, consult a reputable personal injury lawyer who can determine whether you have a case on your hands. Call us today for your free consultation.
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