Cars with tinted windows look fancy for sure, but if you live in Virginia, that won’t be a good idea! Thanks to the Virginia tint laws, you cannot use tint film on the windows whenever you want.
But what do these laws say? Well, that’s what we’ll discuss here today.
It was 1999 when the car tinting law in Virginia was proposed. It talks about how dark or reflective your car window tint should be, depending on the state you live in.
We’ve provided all the information you need in this regard over here. Also, there is also some extra information on rules and regulations, which you should obey if you don’t want to get fined.
So yes, it’s pretty crucial you read the whole article from top to bottom.
Table of Contents
Virginia Tint Laws in 2023 – Everything You Need to Know
Before you get to know the Virginia window tint laws, you need to learn about the VLT. So before we get into the details, let’s talk about it first!
What does VLT mean according to Virginia state law?
The VLT or Visible Light Transmission indicates the percentage of detectable light that passes through your car’s window.
When the VLT is lower, the window tint will get darker. And higher VLT means that more light will penetrate the windows without any trouble.
For instance, if you install 75% tint on the glasses, 75% light will go through them. And when the tint is 5%, the insides of your car will be way darker!
By the way, We have in-depth content about VLT and window tint percentage for your reference. We recommend checking it out If you want to know the different levels of window tint.
So, what is the legal tint in Virginia– VA window tint law 2023
The Virginia window tint law is different for each type of vehicle. For passenger and multipurpose vehicles, you have to follow dissimilar rules.
So here are the VA window tint laws for multipurpose and passenger automobiles.
Tint Laws in VA- Tint Darkness for Passenger Vehicles
- Windshield
Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (or top 5 inches). - Front side windows
More than 50% of light must be in according to legal tint in VA 2023. - Backside windows
Any darkness can be used according to legal tint in VA 2023. - Rear window
the same goes here Any darkness can be used according to legal tint in VA 2023.
VA Tint Laws- Tint Darkness for Multi-purpose Vehicles
- Windshield
Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. - Front side windows
More than 50% of light must be in according to legal tint in VA 2023. - Backside windows
Any darkness can be used according to legal tint in VA 2023. - Rear window
The same goes here Any darkness can be used according to legal tint in VA 2023.
Window Tint Laws Virginia- Tint Reflection
Using tint on your automobile’s window can reflect the incoming light and reduce the heat. Moreover, the tinted windows also prevent glares.
Well, the window tint Virginia law authorizes some specific window reflection while using a tint. So if you ever think about coloring the glasses, pay attention to this as well.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front side windows
Not be more than 20% reflective. - Backside windows
Not be more than 20% reflective.
Tint reflection for SUV and Vans
- Front side windows
Not be more than 20% reflective. - Backside windows
Not be more than 20% reflective.
Other Legal Tint in VA (Rules and Regulations) You Need to Know
When it comes to window tinting of your vehicle, Virginia is pretty serious about that. You will have plenty of rules and regulations to abide by.
Besides maintaining a specific percentage of the glare on each window, here are some other restrictions you need to follow, even if you want to do a subtle darkening.
Side mirrors in Virginia
Dual-side mirrors are required in Virginia if any window is tinted.
Restricted Colors
Red, yellow, and amber window tints are not permitted.
Certificates
Film manufacturers don’t need to certify the film they sell in Virginia.
Stickers
The sticker or label of compliance to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on every tinted window.
Penalties
For the 1st time Class 3 misdemeanor & for the 2nd time Class 2 misdemeanor.
Virginia Window Tint Medical Exemption
In Virginia, the law states that any driver with a medical exemption can tint their car windows to any degree. To get this exemption, you must have a letter from your doctor that specifically states that you need to tint your windows for medical reasons. The letter must include your name, date of birth, and the specific reason why you need to tint your windows. You must also have this letter with you whenever you’re driving, and present it to a police officer if they ask for it.
How to Get Medical Exemption for Window Tint in Virginia?
The process for getting this Virginia Window Tint Exemption Form is fairly simple. You just need to go to your doctor and get a note from them stating that you need the dark tint for medical reasons. Once you have the note, take it to your local motor vehicle office and they will issue you an exemption sticker to put on your car.
Virginia Medical Exemption Requirements
| State | Virginia |
| Statute, regulation, or other sources | VA Code Ann. § 46.2- 1053 |
| For whom the exemption may apply | driver or regular passenger |
| Reason(s) | a medical condition that renders the person susceptible to harm or injury from exposure to sunlight or bright artificial light |
| Which windows | windshield, front-seat side windows |
| Limits on the amount of tint | windshield: 35% upper 5 inches or to AS1 line OR 70% for the entire windshield; front side windows: 35% (without medical exception, no limits on rear side and rear windows of multi-use passenger vehicles) |
| Certification from medical provider (which type[s] of provider) | a licensed physician or licensed optometrist; the form also lists nurse practitioners, physician assistant, and ophthalmologist |
| Application to state department |
required |
| Frequency of certification of need |
whichever occurs first: medical condition no longer requires or vehicle is sold |
| Vehicle must be marked |
form indicates a notation is made on the vehicle’s registration form |
| Document required in vehicle |
written authorization issued by Commissioner of Department of Motor Vehicles |
Window Tint Exemption Form Virginia
Click here to get the Virginia window tint exemption form.
Benefits of Window Tinting in Virginia
The tint on your car’s window isn’t just a decorative thing; it comes with greater benefits too. So let’s talk about the advantage of coloring your vehicle’s window, shall we?
Prevents the Interior from Fading
While parking our cars, we always look for shades, don’t we? Well, it helps us to maintain the top-notch condition of our car’s exterior.
Likewise, when you use tints on your vehicle’s windows, the interior doesn’t have to face the harshness of the sunlight. Therefore, if you have beautiful leather seats, they are less likely to get damaged!
Blocks UV Rays
You don’t need to get lectured about the harmful effects of UV rays, do you? We all know that applying tons of sunscreen isn’t enough to protect you from damage. And when your car has tinted glasses, you can avert this UV situation pretty gracefully.
Get Better Security
Nothing is worst than people staring at you when you mind your own business in the car. The people in the backseat have to go through this problem more than the drivers. And when you get tinted glasses, you don’t have to go through this annoyance anymore.
Take a Chill Pill
When riding on the hottest summer days, even the AC won’t be enough to cool you down. But if you have tinted windows, you don’t have to worry about sweating anymore!
Cost of Car Window Tint in Virginia
The cost may vary from film to film when it is to tint. For instance, if you want to use a regular classic film for your Sedan, it will cost you up to 150-200 bucks. And when you want something exclusive like ceramic tints, you will need to spend $400 or more!
However, if you don’t have the budget to do the tinting professionally, you can get a DIY tint kit. It will cost you around a hundred bucks, which is a relief!
To know more detail about car tint cost click here.
Virginia, VA Tint Laws FAQ
Is 5% Tint Legal in Virginia?
Yes, you can use 5% tint in Virginia, But there are some restrictions that you must know, you can use 5% tint only one the backside & rear window of your car.
Is 20% Tint Legal in Virginia?
Yes, you can use 20% tint in Virginia, But there are some restrictions that you must know, you can use 20% tint only one the backside & rear window of your car.
What is The Darkest Legal Tint in Virginia?
When you live in Virginia and you want your car to have a darker tint the first thing you want to know is what is the darkest legal tint in VA. The answer is that 50% is the darkest legal tint in Virginia for driver-side windows. you can use any tint darkness on the backside & rear window of your vehicle.
Is Windshield Tint Legal in Virginia?
Yes, you can use tint on the windshield in VA. But there is a law you must follow to avoid the hassle. According to Virginia windshield tint law, you can use a Non-reflective tint that is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (or top 5 inches).
How Much Does a Virginia Window Tint Ticket Cost?
Virginia window tint laws are some of the most strict in the U.S. If you’re caught driving with a window tint that’s too dark, you could be subject to a fine of up to $110.
What is VA Code Window Tint?
46.2-1052 is VA Code Window Tint.
Secret Tips
How To Pass Inspection With Tinted Windows VA
Virginia Tint law references
Vehicle Sun-Shading and Medical Waivers (Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles)
Medical exemption
Virginia DMV – Vehicle Sun-Shading Medical Authorization
Virginia DMV – Sun-Shading Medical Authorization Application (.pdf file)
The Bottom Line
The goal of creating this article was to enlighten you about the Virginia tint laws so you can confidently drive your car through the state. The article you read just now was last updated in 2023. If you think we’ve missed any new information, feel free to contact us anytime you want.
In conclusion, it is important to be familiar with the Virginia window tint laws if you are planning to get your car tinted. While there are some restrictions, the benefits of window tinting make it well worth the effort to follow the guidelines. To learn more about Virginia‘s window tinting laws or for assistance finding a qualified installer, visit the website of the Virginia Criminal Justice Information Center.
