There are many reasons why people decide to tint the windows on their vehicles. Some simply prefer the look of tinted windows. Others use window tint to keep their vehicle cool during the hot Texas summers.
Whatever the reason, tinting your windows in Texas is perfectly legal. However, there are some rules that must be followed. Failure to follow the law could result in a citation and fine. Dive into the details below to learn more about the window tint laws in Texas.
What Are the Window Tint Laws in Texas?
Texas has a comprehensive set of window tinting standards that must be followed if you decide to tint your windows. These standards govern both the darkness and reflectivity requirements of the tint.
Window Tint Darkness
The darkness of window tint is measured by what is called the light transmittance value (LTV). This measures the amount of light that is able to pass through the tint. The lower the value, the darker the tint.
Windshield
Window tint requirements for the windshield of a vehicle are as follows:
- Tint must be applied above the AS-1 line. If there is no AS-1 line, tint can be no lower than 5 inches below the top of the windshield.
- Windshield tint may not be red, amber, or blue
- LTV must be 25% or more
Meeting these requirements will ensure you are in compliance with the law.
Side Windows
Window tint requirements for side windows to the left and right of the driver are as follows:
- LTV must be 25% or more in combination with the original glass
Window tint requirements for side windows to the rear of the driver are exempt from regulation.
Rear Windows
Finally, there are also some requirements for rear windows that must be met.
They are:
- If the vehicle is equipped with outside mirrors that allow the driver to see 200 feet from the rear of the vehicle, then there are no tint restrictions on rear windows
- If the vehicle is not equipped with such mirrors, then the tint must have an LTV of 25% or more
In addition to darkness, the reflectivity of the tint is also regulated in some situations.
Window Tint Reflection
The reflectivity of tint is measured by the luminous reflectance value. This value measures how much light is reflected off the tint. The higher the value, the more shiny and reflective the tint will be.
For all windows that have a darkness requirement, the reflectance value must also be 25% or less. Tints that are too reflective could cause issues for other drivers and might result in a car accident, truck accident, bus accident, or some other type of crash.
Exceptions to Texas Window Tint Laws
There are a few exceptions to the window tint laws in Texas. Some vehicles are totally exempt from the requirements, while others may be granted special exemptions. There are generally three exceptions to the tinting requirements.
They are:
- Law enforcement vehicles
- Medical exemptions
- Passenger transport vehicles
In order to obtain a medical exemption for the tint on your windows, you must have a signed exemption statement from your doctor or optometrist. The statement should specify your name and the medical necessity for the tint. You should carry the signed statement in your vehicle at all times to serve as proof of your medical exemption.
Be Sure to Follow the Window Tint Laws in Texas
Window tint can make it more difficult to see out of your vehicle when driving, especially at night. Drivers should always take extra precautions to watch for other vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists while driving. Doing so can help avoid accidents and a potential personal injury case. If you have any questions about the tint laws in Texas, you should always seek the help of a local attorney prior to installing tint on your windows.
Contact the Undefeated Texas Personal Injury Lawyers from Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers for Help Today, Call 1-888-603-3636
For more information, please contact our Undefeated personal injury attorneys in Texas at Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Harris County, Midland County, and throughout the state of Texas. We are located in Houston and Midland and throughout the state of Texas:
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
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Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
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