Short answer: Texas allows window tint that lets in at least 25% of light, with no more than 25% reflectance, on the front side windows. Rear side windows can be any darkness, and the rear window can too if the car has side mirrors on both sides. Windshield tint is limited to the top 5 inches or the AS-1 line.
Last reviewed: November 13, 2026. Sources: Texas Transportation Code § 547.613, Texas DPS window tinting standards.
Texas window tint limits at a glance
Percentages are visible light transmission (VLT): how much light passes through the glass and film together. The same limits apply to cars, SUVs, vans and trucks.
| Window | Texas limit |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Tint only above the AS-1 line or within 5 inches of the top, whichever is closer; at least 25% VLT and 25% reflectance or less; no red, blue or amber |
| Front side windows | At least 25% VLT, 25% reflectance or less |
| Rear side windows | Any darkness |
| Rear window | Any darkness with outside mirrors on both sides; otherwise 25% VLT minimum |
| Reflectance | 25% or less on the windshield strip and front side windows |
| Penalty | Misdemeanor, fine of $1 to $200 |
Windshield
Tint is allowed only on the top strip of the windshield, above the AS-1 line marked on the glass or within 5 inches of the top if there is no line. That strip must still let in at least 25% of light and may not be red, blue or amber. Texas DPS also allows clear UV-blocking film anywhere on the windshield.
Front side windows
The windows to the driver’s left and right must let in at least 25% of light and reflect no more than 25%, measured with the original glass. Many popular 20%, 15% and 5% films are too dark for these windows.
Rear side windows and rear window
Texas law exempts the side windows behind the driver entirely, so any darkness is legal. The rear window can also be any darkness, as long as the vehicle has an outside mirror on each side that shows the road at least 200 feet behind you.
Medical exemption
Darker front side windows are allowed if the driver or a regular passenger needs protection from sunlight for a medical reason. You need a signed statement from a licensed physician or optometrist that names the person and says the tint is needed for their health. Keep it in the vehicle and show it to an officer if stopped. DPS stopped issuing separate tint exemption certificates on January 1, 2019.
Penalties
Illegal tint is a misdemeanor under § 547.613. Because the section sets no separate fine, the general traffic penalty applies: a fine of $1 to $200 (§ 542.401). Installers who skip the required compliance label face a fine of up to $1,000.
Frequently asked questions
Is 5% tint legal in Texas?
Only on the rear side windows, and on the rear window if you have side mirrors on both sides. It is illegal on the front side windows and windshield.
Is 20% tint legal in Texas?
Not on the front side windows, which need at least 25%. It is legal behind the driver.
What is the AS-1 line?
A small marking near the top edge of the windshield that shows how far down tint may go. If your windshield has no AS-1 marking, the limit is 5 inches from the top.
Do SUVs and trucks have different tint rules in Texas?
No. Texas uses the same limits for all passenger vehicles.
