Texas window tint laws
Among the more permissive states for front-side tint — 43 of 51 jurisdictions require more light through the front windows.
The legal limits
Texas note: Rear any darkness if dual mirrors.
Will your film pass in Texas?
A trooper's meter reads the film and the glass. Factory glass runs about 78% VLT, so net VLT = film × glass — which is why "35% film" can fail a 35% state. Common shades over factory glass:
| Film | Meters at | Front side | Back side | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 70% | 54.6% VLT | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| 50% | 39.0% VLT | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| 35% | 27.3% VLT | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| 20% | 15.6% VLT | Fail | Fail | Pass |
| 5% | 3.9% VLT | Fail | Fail | Pass |
Different glass or an odd shade? Run the exact numbers in the tint-law tool — it also emails you if Texas's law changes.
Across the state line
Shops near a border tint cars registered in both states. Texas front side: 25% VLT min — the neighbors:
Texas tint law FAQs
What is the darkest legal tint in Texas?
Texas sets no VLT floor on rear windows, so film there can be as dark as you like (note: rear any darkness if dual mirrors). Front side windows must still meter at least 25% VLT.
Is 20% tint legal in Texas?
A 20% film over factory glass meters about 15.6% VLT. That fails Texas's 25% front-side rule and it also fails the back-side limit (25% vlt min).
Does Texas allow medical exemptions for darker tint?
Yes — Texas allows darker film with a qualifying medical exemption. The state also requires a compliance sticker between the film and glass, so carry the exemption paperwork with the vehicle.
Is reflective or mirrored tint legal in Texas?
Texas permits some reflectivity within state limits — check the current administrative code for the exact percentage before installing mirrored film.
What is the windshield tint rule in Texas?
Texas allows windshield tint only at the top of the glass: Top 5". Full-windshield film (outside a medical exemption) fails inspection.
Reviewed against state DOT/DPS regulations as of 2025. States amend tint law — verify with the Texas authority before installing. This is reference material, not legal advice.
Run a tint shop in Texas?
Wraptor quotes tint, wrap, and PPF jobs with the legal limits built in — plus scheduling, deposits, and a CRM that remembers every VIN.