Washington window tint laws
Among the more permissive states for front-side tint — 46 of 51 jurisdictions require more light through the front windows.
The legal limits
Will your film pass in Washington?
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 | Fail |
| 5% | 3.9% VLT | Fail | Fail | Fail |
Different glass or an odd shade? Run the exact numbers in the tint-law tool — it also emails you if Washington's law changes.
Across the state line
Shops near a border tint cars registered in both states. Washington front side: 24% VLT min — the neighbors:
Washington tint law FAQs
What is the darkest legal tint in Washington?
Front side windows must let through at least 24% of light, back side 24%, and the rear window 24%. Anything darker fails a meter check.
Is 20% tint legal in Washington?
A 20% film over factory glass meters about 15.6% VLT. That fails Washington's 24% front-side rule and it also fails the back-side limit (24% vlt min).
Does Washington allow medical exemptions for darker tint?
Yes — Washington 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 Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
Washington allows windshield tint only at the top of the glass: Top 6". 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 Washington authority before installing. This is reference material, not legal advice.
Run a tint shop in Washington?
Wraptor quotes tint, wrap, and PPF jobs with the legal limits built in — plus scheduling, deposits, and a CRM that remembers every VIN.