Window tint laws in Washington (2026)

The rules, window by window

Windshield

Film sunscreening is not permitted on the windshield except that a greater degree of light reduction is permitted along the top edge as long as the product is transparent and does not extend into the AS-1 portion of the windshield or more than six inches from the top; clear film that reduces or eliminates ultraviolet light may be applied to the windshield (RCW 46.37.430).

The standard in the law's own words

The section sits within the safety glazing statute; separate provisions require unobstructed driver vision.

Reflectivity

Film sunscreening on any window except the windshield must have a total reflectance of 35 percent or less; mirror finish products are prohibited (RCW 46.37.430).

Color restrictions

Red, gold, yellow, or black window film is prohibited, as is spray-on or liquid tint applied by brush or spray (RCW 46.37.430).

Medical exemption

A person who must be protected from exposure to sunlight for physical or medical reasons, with documentation signed by a physician, may use darker film sunscreening on all windows and on the top six inches of the windshield (RCW 46.37.430).

Enforcement

Operating a vehicle with non-conforming film sunscreening is a traffic infraction; unlawful installation and sale of installation services are addressed by RCW 46.37.435. Washington states its standard as net film: the maximum level of film sunscreening applied to any window (except the windshield) must itself have a light transmission of 24 percent or more, rather than a combined through-glass measurement. When film is applied to any window other than the windshield, outside mirrors on both left and right sides are required, positioned to reflect a view of the roadway at least 200 feet to the rear.

Notes

The 24 percent value is a net-film standard (the film itself), which distinguishes Washington from most combined-transmittance states; the same standard applies to front side, rear side, and rear windows of passenger cars. Vehicle-category difference: hearses, ambulances, limousines, buses, and trucks may apply darker film to windows to the rear of the driver if equipped with dual outside mirrors. Verified from the official Washington State Legislature RCW portal.