Window Tinting Laws in Washington D.C.

Car window tinting laws were implemented in Washington D.C. in 1994.

We've given you all the essential details regarding the tint on your car's windows, such as the permissible darkness and reflectiveness levels, specific to your state.

Did you know that there are specific rules and regulations regarding car window tinting in Washington D.C.? It's important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to ensure you stay within the law. Let's explore the details below.

Windows Tint darkness in Washington D.C.

VLT, short for Visible Light Transmission, refers to the percentage of visible light that can pass through the windows of your car.

Did you know that the state of Washington D.C. has specific regulations regarding the amount of light that can pass through window films and glass installed on sedan cars, SUVs, and vans? These regulations vary depending on the type of vehicle.

Window tint darkness for sedans

Windshield: it is permissible to have non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or on the top 5 inches of your windshield.
Front Side: The windows on the front side should permit more than 70% of light to pass through them.
Back Side: The back side windows should permit more than 50% of light to pass through them.
Rear Window: According to the guidelines, more than 50% of light must be allowed.

Window Tint darkness for SUVs and vans

Windshield: it is permissible to have non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or on the top 5 inches of your windshield.
Front Side: The windows on the front side should permit more than 70% of light to pass through them.
Back Side: The windows on the back side of the vehicle need to allow more than 35% of light in.
Rear Window: It is necessary to allow a minimum of 35% of natural light to penetrate through.

Window Tint Reflection in Washington D.C.

Did you know that window tint has the ability to bounce back light that enters and minimize both the glare and heat?

Did you know that in Washington D.C., there are specific guidelines regarding window tinting? It's essential to be aware of these guidelines to ensure you're within the legal limits of window reflection when using tinted windows.

Tint reflection on sedans

Front Side: The current legislation does not make any reference to this.
Back Side: The current legislation does not make any reference to this.

Tint reflection for SUVs and vans

Front Side: The current legislation does not make any reference to this.
Back Side: The current legislation does not make any reference to this.

Other Washington D.C. window tint rules and regulations

In Washington D.C., there are various additional laws, rules, and regulations related to window tinting that are worth mentioning. These include the following:

Side Mirrors: Everyone can use side mirrors without any limitations.
Forbidden Colors: In Washington D.C., you can use any tint colors on your windows without any restrictions.
Certificates: Film manufacturers are not obligated to certify the film they distribute within this jurisdiction.
Stickers of Compliance: Any tinting does not mandatorily need a sticker for legal identification.
Medical Exceptions: There are certain circumstances in which you can get a medical exemption for special tint on your vehicle. If you're interested in learning more about the specific conditions and requirements for this exemption, I suggest referring to the laws outlined by the state of Washington D.C..
Penalties: Penalties for non-compliance include a citation of $50, with the possibility of facing a fine of up to $1000 if the requirements are not met within 5 days.

Just a heads up, the laws and regulations regarding window tinting in Washington D.C. might vary depending on where you live or the specific county you're in.

Make sure to verify the information provided by reaching out to your local DMV or law enforcement authorities.

Our knowledge regarding the regulations on window tint in Washington D.C. was most recently revised in 2024.

Tinting regulations were put into effect in Washington D.C. back in 1994.

If you come across any outdated or inaccurate information, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We would appreciate the opportunity to rectify it. Thank you!

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