Window tinting laws in Texas require vehicles to comply with specific guidelines for Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and luminous reflectance. These guidelines are intended to protect drivers and passengers while enhancing safety and visibility on the road. The VLT requirement specifies how much daylight is allowed through a tinted window, while the reflective properties of the film limit how much glare can be caused.
The laws also prevent tinting from covering a large percentage of the windshield, which could interfere with a driver’s view of traffic signals, street signs and other vehicles. The rules also restrict certain colors of tinting, such as red and amber, which can reduce visibility. The state’s window tinting laws in Texas regulations apply to cars, trucks and SUVs, as well as vans and multipurpose vehicles.
A driver can get a medical exemption to allow for darker tint than is normally allowed under Texas car tint laws. To qualify, you need a physician or ophthalmologist to certify that your health condition warrants the use of a darker tint to protect your skin and eyes from sunlight. The physician must be licensed and be able to provide you with the proper documentation, such as an eye exam or medical report that specifically lists your specific health conditions and explains how a darker tint is needed to protect you from sunlight.
If you don’t qualify for a medical exemption, the darkest legal tint in Texas is 25% VLT. You can have a lower VLT on the back side windows, but you must have dual side mirrors in order to keep your vehicle safe and visible to other drivers. Additionally, the back windows cannot be more than 25% reflective.
Other groups that are exempt from these car tinting laws include taxis, limousines and other commercial passenger transport vehicles, law enforcement vehicles and emergency vehicles. These groups must follow all normal vehicle inspection requirements and regulations, but can apply for a waiver to exempt them from the tint laws that are applicable in their situation.
Window tint laws in Texas are designed to ensure that drivers can see the roadway and other vehicles, and that police officers can safely respond to calls for assistance. The laws are regularly revised and updated to reflect new safety concerns and technology advancements. It is vital for all drivers to stay current with these laws and ensure their vehicles meet the legal requirements.
Violating the Texas tinting laws may result in a fine or even a misdemeanor conviction. By staying current with these laws, ensuring that your vehicle complies and applying for a medical exemption when necessary, you can avoid penalties. Staying informed about the latest changes to these laws is critical, as they can be changed at any time. If you have questions about the current laws, contact a professional tinting company for more information. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date information and help you navigate the process of getting a medical exemption.