Updated for 2026

Window Tint Laws
by State

Find the legal window tint limits for every US state. VLT percentages, medical exemptions, penalties, and more.

Browse All 50 States Tint Percentage Guide

Popular States

CA
California
Front side: 70% VLT
FL
Florida
Front side: 28% VLT
GA
Georgia
Front side: 32% VLT
IL
Illinois
Front side: 35% VLT
NY
New York
Front side: 70% VLT
OH
Ohio
Front side: 50% VLT
PA
Pennsylvania
Front side: 70% VLT
TX
Texas
Front side: 25% VLT
View All 50 States →

Understanding Window Tint Percentages

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What is VLT?

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission. It measures the percentage of light that passes through your window tint film. A lower VLT percentage means darker tint — 5% VLT is a very dark "limo tint" while 70% is nearly clear.

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Why Do Tint Laws Vary?

Each state sets its own window tint regulations. Laws typically differ between front side windows (stricter) and rear windows (more lenient). SUVs and trucks may have different limits than sedans in some states.

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Medical Exemptions

Most states offer medical exemptions for drivers with conditions like lupus, photosensitivity, or melanoma. A physician's certificate is typically required and must be kept in the vehicle.

Quick Comparison: Strictest vs Most Lenient

Most Lenient

Tint-Friendly States

States like Michigan, Texas, and Arizona allow any darkness on rear windows, making them popular with tint enthusiasts.

Strictest

Heavily Regulated States

States like New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island require 70% VLT on all windows — essentially no aftermarket tint on front windows.