If you’re planning to tint your car windows in Washington, one critical question comes up fast:
“What is the darkest legal window tint in Washington State?”
Choosing the wrong tint shade can lead to tickets, failed inspections, or costly removal. This guide explains Washington State window tint laws, the darkest legal options, and how to get the best look and performance without breaking the law.
Washington State Window Tint Laws (Quick Answer)
As of current enforcement standards in Washington State, the darkest legal window tint is:
✅ 24% VLT on front side windows
That means at least 24% of visible light must pass through the driver and front passenger windows.
Legal Tint Limits in Washington State (By Window)
Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s allowed:
| Vehicle Window | Legal Tint Limit (VLT) |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint on top 6 inches only |
| Front Side Windows | 24% VLT minimum |
| Rear Side Windows | Any darkness allowed |
| Rear Window | Any darkness allowed (with dual side mirrors) |
👉 Lower VLT = darker tint
So in Washington, 24% is the darkest legal tint for front windows.
Can You Go Darker Than 24% in Washington?
Only on certain windows.
- Rear side windows: Any darkness
- Rear windshield: Any darkness (as long as your vehicle has both side mirrors)
This means many drivers choose:
- 24% or 35% on front windows
- 20% or darker on rear windows
This setup gives you privacy and style while staying legal.
20%, 24%, or 35% — What’s the Best Legal Choice?
Many people ask if 20% tint is legal in Washington.
❌ 20% tint on front windows is NOT legal
It’s darker than the allowed 24% VLT.
✅ Popular legal choices:
- 35% tint → Safer buffer, excellent visibility
- 24% tint → Darkest legal option, closer to a “limo look”
If you’re still deciding between tint shades, this guide helps:👉 Is 20% or 35% Tint Darker?
Does Darker Tint Mean Better Heat Protection?
Not necessarily.
Heat rejection depends more on film technology than on tint darkness. For example:
- 35% ceramic tint can block more heat than 20% dyed tint
- Ceramic films offer superior UV and infrared protection
Learn how to pick the right film (not just shade):👉 How to Choose the Right Type of Window Tint for Your Car, Home, or Office
What Happens If Your Tint Is Too Dark?
Driving with illegal tint in Washington can result in:
- Fix-it tickets
- Mandatory tint removal
- Fines or inspection failures
If your current tint is bubbling, fading, or non-compliant, it may be time to replace it:👉 5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Car Window Tint (and What You’ll Gain)
How to Stay Legal and Still Get a Dark Look?
Professional tint shops use precision VLT meters and compliant films to ensure:
✔ Legal installation
✔ Clean, factory-style finish
✔ Manufacturer warranties
✔ No issues with law enforcement
For Washington drivers, this is especially important due to stricter front-window limits.
Get Legal Car Window Tinting in Auburn, WA
If you want the darkest legal tint in Washington State without the risk, professional guidance matters.
👉 Car Window Tinting in Auburn, WA
At Autocraft Customz, we help you:
- Choose legal tint shades
- Maximize heat rejection
- Achieve a clean, premium look
- Avoid tickets and rework
Final Answer
✔ 24% VLT on front side windows
✔ Any darkness on rear windows (with mirrors)
✔ Windshield tint limited to top 6 inches
If you want the best balance of style, comfort, and legality, a professional tint installation is always the safest choice. 🚗✨