Texas Car Window Tinting Laws And Requirements

Texas has specific laws regarding car window tinting to ensure safety and visibility on the road. Enacted in 2009, these regulations apply to various vehicles including cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. However, certain vehicles are exempt, such as law enforcement vehicles, taxis, buses, limousines, and vehicles used by individuals with medical permits.

Certified Tinting Film

In Texas, manufacturers of tinting film (also known as “sunscreening” film) must certify their products. Motorists should ensure they use certified film for reliable protection.

Windshield Tinting Regulations

Tinting devices can be applied to the windshield under these conditions:

• Must be applied above the AS-1 line. If there is no AS-1 line, the tint must end five inches below the top of the windshield.
• The tint must not be red, amber, or blue.
• Must have a light transmittance value of 25% or more.
• Must have a luminous reflectance value of 25% or less.
• Clear or untinted UV film is allowed anywhere on the front windshield.

Visible Light Transmission (VLT)

Texas measures the amount of light allowed through tinted windows using Visible Light Transmission (VLT). VLT is the percentage of light that passes through the film and glass.

Window Tint Darkness for Different Vehicles

Sedans

• Windshield: 25% VLT tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 5 inches, with less than 25% reflection.
• Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
• Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
• Rear Window: Any darkness can be used with side outside mirrors; 25% VLT without mirrors.

SUVs and Vans

• Windshield: Same as sedans.
• Front Side Windows: Same as sedans.
• Back Side Windows: Same as sedans.
• Rear Window: Same as sedans.

Window Tint Reflection Guidelines

Tinting film containing metallic elements can reflect light, reducing glare and heat. Texas law allows:

• Front Side Windows: Must not be more than 25% reflective.
• Back Side Windows: Must not be more than 25% reflective.

Additional Texas Tint Laws and Exemptions

• Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
• Stickers: A sticker identifying legal tinting is required between the film and glass on the driver’s side window.

Medical Exemptions

Texas allows medical exemptions for special tint. A licensed physician or ophthalmologist must provide a signed statement explaining the need for a darker tint. This must be submitted to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Regulatory Services Division.

Exempt Vehicles

Certain vehicles are exempt from these laws, including:

• Law Enforcement Vehicles: Used for law enforcement purposes.
• Medical Vehicles: Used for medical purposes.
• Passenger Transport Vehicles: Including limousines, buses, and taxis.

High-End Multi-Layer Ceramic Tint: The Best Choice for Houston Summers

In Houston's scorching summers, not all window film are created equal. High-end multi-layer ceramic tint stands out as the premier choice for protecting both your vehicle’s interior and your skin. Unlike standard tint, ceramic tint offers superior heat rejection and UV protection. Here’s why it’s the best tint for Houston’s summer heat:

• Superior Heat Rejection: Multi-layer ceramic tint significantly reduces the heat entering your vehicle, keeping the interior cooler and more comfortable.
• UV Protection: Our ceramic window films block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, protecting your skin and preventing interior fading and cracking.
• Enhanced Clarity and Durability: Ceramic tint maintains excellent visibility and does not fade or degrade over time.
• Certified by the Skin Cancer Foundation: All our window films are certified by the Skin Cancer Foundation, ensuring they provide the highest level of protection.

Contact Us

At Vivë Auto Detailing, we are experts in Texas window tint laws and can help ensure your vehicle meets all legal requirements. Whether you need standard or medically exempt tinting, our certified professionals are here to assist you.