Legal Window Tint Texas: What’s Allowed and What Gets You Fined

When it comes to legal window tint Texas, the specific visible light transmission (VLT) percentages allowed by state law for different windows on a vehicle. Also known as window tint laws, these rules aren’t suggestions—they’re enforced by police during traffic stops and inspection checks. Many drivers think darker tint looks cooler, but if you’re over the limit, you’re not just risking a ticket—you could be forced to remove it entirely.

The law in Texas is simple: front side windows must let in at least 70% of visible light. That’s roughly the same as factory tint on most new cars. Back side windows and the rear windshield can be darker—down to 25% VLT—but only if your vehicle has dual side mirrors. If you don’t have them, even the back windows must stay at 70%. And no, having a medical exemption doesn’t automatically let you go darker—you need a signed form from a doctor and it must be displayed on the window.

Many people confuse tint percentage Texas, the amount of light allowed through the glass, measured as a percentage. Also known as VLT, it’s the key number inspectors check with a handheld meter with how dark it looks. A 35% tint might look black from outside but still be legal on the back windows. But put that same tint on the front sides, and you’re in violation. Reflective or mirrored tint? Illegal everywhere in Texas. Metallic-based films that interfere with radar or cameras? Also banned. And don’t assume a shop’s "Texas legal" claim is enough—some installers cut corners. You’re the one who gets pulled over.

What about factory tint? Most new cars come with tinted glass that’s already within legal limits, especially on the rear. But if you add film on top of that, you’re stacking it—and that’s where people get tripped up. The law looks at the total VLT after any film is applied. So even if your windows are factory-tinted at 30%, adding a 30% film brings you down to 9%—way over the limit.

There’s no grace period. If an officer checks your tint and it’s illegal, you’ll get a citation. You’ll have to fix it within 30 days and bring proof of correction to court. No fix, no dismissal. Some drivers try to use temporary spray-on tint or removable films, but those still count. The law doesn’t care if it’s removable—it’s still there during the stop.

Why does this matter? Because Texas has one of the highest rates of window tint violations in the country. Officers use tint violations as a reason to pull over vehicles for other checks—registration, insurance, or even suspected stolen cars. It’s not just about the fine—it’s about what happens after the stop.

What you’ll find below are real, tested insights on what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid getting nailed. From how to measure your own tint at home, to which films actually pass inspection, to what happens if you ignore the law—you’ll get straight answers without the marketing fluff. No guesswork. No myths. Just what you need to keep your car looking sharp and your record clean.