Virginia Window Tinting Laws for Cars

If you are a resident of Virginia, or plan to drive in the state, you must know the vehicle window tint laws in the state. Do not worry, in this article, we will provide the necessary information about window tinting laws for your vehicle, including how dark and reflective the vehicle window tint is allowed in Virginia. In addition, we will also inform you of additional regulations regarding Virginia window tinting. So, ensure you read this entire text.

The Law Regarding Tinted Windows in Virginia

The Virginia General Assembly began enacting the Virginia Tint Law in 1999. This law was enacted to establish rules regarding tinting on car windows, such as the darkness or reflectivity of car window tint. This is measured by the percentage of light called VLT (Visible Light Transmission). Apparently, Virginia has different regulations regarding the window tinting allowed on passenger vehicles and multi-passenger vehicles. Now, we will discuss the car window tinting regulatory laws in Virginia. You must know the visible light transmission of your car’s window tint to ensure that your car window is permitted under current Virginia laws.

Window Tint Darkness for Cars in Virginia

In Virginia, the percentage of light allowed through auto films and glass is very specific and differs for passenger vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles.

Window tint darkness for passenger vehicles:

• • Windshield

Non-reflective tint on windshield is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (or top 5 inches).

• • Front Side windows

Front side windows must allow more than 50% light in

• • Back Side windows

Back side windows must allow more than 50% light in.

• • Rear window

Rear window must allow more than 35% light in.

For your information, passenger vehicles include sedan, coupe, station wagon, convertible, hardtop and hatchback vehicles.

Window tint darkness for multi-purpose vehicles:

• • Windshield

Non-reflective tint on windshield is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.

• • Front Side windows

Front Side Windows must allow more than 50% light in.

• • Back Side windows

Any darkness can be used.

• • Rear Window

Any darkness can be used.

For your information, multi-purpose vehicles include SUV, vans, pickups, RVs, and minibuses.

Note: AS-1 line usually extends 4-6 inches parallel to the top of the windshield. Several state tint laws set the exact number of inches that can be tinted on the windshield. Other states define this area of the windshield as the AS-1 line.

Window Tint Reflection for Cars in Virginia

Car window tint can reflect incoming light and reduce glare and heat produced by visible light. Here is information on how much reflection is permitted on your car’s tinted window film according to Virginia law.

Window tint reflection for passenger vehicles:

• • Front Side windows

Must not be more than 20% reflective.

• • Back Side windows

Must not be more than 20% reflective.

Window tint reflection for multi-purpose vehicles:

• • Front Side windows

Must not be more than 20% reflective.

• • Back Side windows

Must not be more than 20% reflective.

Other Window Tint Rules and Regulations in Virginia

Here are some other rules and regulations relating to window tinting in Virginia:

• • Restricted Colors

Red, amber and yellow tinted windows are not allowed by the Virginia tint laws.

• • Side Mirrors

Every vehicle that has tinted windows must have dual side mirrors in good condition.

• • Tint Variance

In Virginia, Window tint on a vehicle is allowed a variance of up to 7%.

• • Certificates

In Virginia, manufacturers, retailers and installers of window tint for cars do not have to certify that the tint they sell meets state law.

• • Stickers

A sticker indicating legal window tint is required in Virginia. Therefore, your car window tint installer places appropriate stickers to show that your car window tint is legal in that state.

• • Penalties

Class 3 Misdemeanor for the first offense. Class 2 Misdemeanor for subsequent offenses.

• • Medical Exceptions

Virginia window tinting laws allow medical exceptions to the state’s tinting rules. If you need darker car window glass on the front side windows or rear windows of the car, you can discuss it with your doctor to get a medical exception. Make sure you keep proof of your medical exception in your car to avoid being cited for tinted windows if you are suddenly stopped by the police.

Keep in mind that the laws and regulations regarding acceptable car window tint in Virginia may be interpreted differently in your area or where you live.

Reasons to Tint Windows

Despite the rules and restrictions of tinted windows on vehicles in Virginia, there are many reasons and even benefits to using tinted windows on vehicles:

• • Reduces Glare

The use of window tinting can reduce glare thereby improving driver vision and safety. This is especially beneficial for individuals with sensitive eyes.

• • Hides Valuables

Window tint can prevent bad guys from identifying valuables in the car, thus preventing theft or break-ins.

• • Skin Protection

The use of window film can protect your skin due to its ability to block UV rays up to 99%.

• • Protects Vehicle Interiors

Window film can protect the interior of your vehicle as it prevents UV rays from entering the car which often causes the interior and upholstery of your vehicle to fade or dry out.

• • Climate Control and Energy Efficiency

Tinted window films on vehicles can reduce the interior temperature by up to 60%. By using tinted window film, you will not need to use the air conditioner as often, which will save on fuel usage.

• • Style

In addition to the reasons and benefits mentioned above, using tinted windows can also enhance the sophistication, style, and luxury feel of the car.

Window Tinting Violations in Virginia

In Virginia, if you commit a car window tint violation for the first time, it will be considered a Class 3 misdemeanor. However, for subsequent violations, you will be considered a Class 2 misdemeanor. For your information, Class 3 misdemeanors cannot be punished jail, but you will be fined up to $500. Meanwhile, a Class 2 misdemeanor is a much more serious offense than a Class 3 misdemeanor. If you commit a Class 2 misdemeanor, you will be sentenced to prison for up to six months. Or, you will be fined up to $1000. In fact, in the most serious cases, you can be jailed and also fined. Therefore, make sure you always comply with the Window tinting laws for cars in Virginia, or you will regret it.