2026 Update

Virginia Window Tint Laws — Complete Guide

Creator: Virginia Tint Exemption Editorial Team
Published: 2025-01-15

Everything you need to know about window tint regulations in Virginia. Current legal limits for every window, penalties for violations, and how medical exemptions work.

Updated April 2026 · Virginia Tint Exemption Editorial Team

Virginia Tint Limits at a Glance

VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of light that passes through the window. Lower VLT means darker tint.

Window	Sedan	SUV / Van / Truck
Front Windshield	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line
Front Side Windows	50% VLT VLT	50% VLT VLT
Back Side Windows	35% VLT VLT	Any darkness
Rear Window	35% VLT VLT	Any darkness
Max Reflectivity	20% maximum reflectivity	20% maximum reflectivity

Understanding VLT Percentages

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission— it measures what percentage of light passes through your window tint. Here's what common VLT levels look like:

70% VLTVery light — barely noticeable

50% VLTLight tint — mild sun reduction

35% VLTMedium — noticeable but can still see inside

20% VLTDark — difficult to see inside from outside

5% (limo) VLTVery dark — nearly impossible to see inside

Penalties for Illegal Tint in Virginia

Driving with illegal tint can be costly

First offense: $110–$250 fine
Repeat offenses: $250+ fine, possible vehicle inspection failure
Additional: You may be required to remove the tint and show proof of removal

The easiest way to avoid these penalties while still getting the window tint you need is to obtain a medical exemption. With a valid exemption, your darker tint is completely legal.

Restricted Tint Colors

Virginia law restricts certain tint colors: Red, amber, and yellow not permitted. These colors are prohibited regardless of whether you have a medical exemption.

Medical Exemptions to Virginia Tint Laws

Virginia law allows individuals with qualifying medical conditions to apply for a tint exemption that permits darker window tint than the standard limits. This is authorized under Virginia Code §46.2-1052.

Must be certified by a licensed physician

Covers conditions causing light sensitivity or UV vulnerability

Exemption documentation must be kept in the vehicle

A compliance sticker may be required on the vehicle

Common Questions About Virginia Tint Laws

Is tint a primary offense in Virginia?

In Virginia, a tint violation can be a primary reason for a traffic stop. This means an officer can pull you over solely for having window tint that appears too dark.

Can I tint my front windshield in Virginia?

Virginia allows non-reflective tint allowed above as-1 line. Full windshield tint is not permitted even with a medical exemption in most cases.

Do SUVs have different tint rules?

Yes. In Virginia, multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, trucks) can have any darkness on rear side windows and the rear window, while sedans must meet minimum VLT requirements.

How do police test window tint?

Law enforcement uses a tint meter (also called a photometer) to measure the VLT of your windows during a traffic stop or inspection. The device measures the percentage of light passing through.

Want Darker Tint? Get a Medical Exemption

If the standard Virginiatint limits aren't dark enough for your medical needs, apply for a tint exemption today.