Window tint laws in West Virginia (2026)
Per-window rules for West Virginia, United States - cited to the primary legal sources and last verified 2026-07-15.
The rules, window by window
| Window | Rule |
|---|---|
| Front side windows | Minimum 35% VLT |
| Rear side windows | Minimum 35% VLT |
| Rear window | Minimum 35% VLT |
Windshield
A sun-screening device used with the windshield must be nonreflective, may not be red, yellow, or amber, and may be used only along the top of the windshield, not extending downward beyond the AS1 line or more than five inches from the top, whichever is closer to the top (W. Va. Code 17C-15-36a).
The standard in the law's own words
The section defines a sun-screening device as film material or a device designed to be used with motor vehicle safety glazing to reduce the effects of the sun.
Reflectivity
Sun-screening devices on the side and rear windows must be of a nonreflective type with reflectivity of not more than 20 percent; windshield devices must be nonreflective (W. Va. Code 17C-15-36a).
Color restrictions
Windshield sun-screening devices may not be red, yellow, or amber in color (W. Va. Code 17C-15-36a).
Medical exemption
A person with a certification of medical need from a licensed physician or optometrist may use sun-screening exceeding the limits, provided the affidavit is carried in the vehicle while driving (W. Va. Code 17C-15-36a).
Enforcement
Violation is a misdemeanor with a fine of not more than 200 dollars. Standards are stated for the sun-screening device used in conjunction with the automotive safety glazing. Exempt vehicles include law-enforcement K-9 and other emergency vehicles designed to haul animals, unmarked law-enforcement vehicles used for covert work (which may not conduct routine traffic stops), and vehicles with factory-installed sun-screening.
Notes
Front side windows (side wings and side windows immediately right and left of the driver): light transmission not less than 35 percent, reflectivity not more than 20 percent. Side windows behind the driver and the rearmost window: same 35 percent / 20 percent standard. Vehicle-category difference: the light transmission rules do not apply to the rear windows (behind the driver) of trucks, buses, trailers, mobile homes, and multipurpose vehicles. Verified from the official West Virginia Legislature code portal (code.wvlegislature.gov).
This page is informational only and is not legal advice. Window tint laws change, enforcement practices vary, and the summaries here may not reflect the most recent amendments - always confirm the current rules with your local licensing authority or law enforcement before tinting a vehicle.
Last verified: 2026-07-15
Check your film against West Virginia's rules
Loading jurisdiction data...
Frequently asked questions
What tint is legal on front side windows in West Virginia?+
West Virginia requires front side windows to let at least 35% of visible light through. Film rated darker than that is illegal on those windows, and roadside enforcement typically measures glass plus film together.
Can I have a tinted windshield strip in West Virginia?+
Yes, within limits: A sun-screening device used with the windshield must be nonreflective, may not be red, yellow, or amber, and may be used only along the top of the windshield, not extending downward beyond the AS1 line or more than five inches from the top, whichever is closer to the top (W. Va. Code 17C-15-36a).
Is there a medical exemption for darker tint in West Virginia?+
A person with a certification of medical need from a licensed physician or optometrist may use sun-screening exceeding the limits, provided the affidavit is carried in the vehicle while driving (W. Va. Code 17C-15-36a).
Where do these rules come from?+
Every rule on this page is cited to a primary legal source (statute or regulation text), listed under the disclaimer with links. Last verified 2026-07-15. Laws change - confirm with your local authorities before tinting.
Tint laws in nearby jurisdictions
Or browse every jurisdiction on the window tint laws hub.
Quote tint jobs with legal limits built in
WrapForce quotes tint jobs per window with your own film products and pricing - so a West Virginia shop quotes legal installs without keeping the statute open in another tab. Scheduling, deposits, and job tracking come with it.
Start free trial