Legal Window Tint Percentages for Different Vehicle Types in San Antonio

Window tinting can enhance a vehicle’s appearance, improve comfort, and provide added privacy. However, it’s crucial for drivers in San Antonio to understand that Texas law imposes specific restrictions on how dark or reflective tint can be—depending on the type of vehicle. Whether you’re driving a sedan, SUV, van, or truck, knowing these rules can help you avoid costly tickets and ensure your tint job is legally compliant.

In this article, we’ll break down the legal tint limits for different vehicle types in San Antonio and the state of Texas, discuss the reasoning behind these laws, and explain what happens if you don’t follow them.

Why Legal Tint Limits Exist

Tint laws are not just about aesthetics. They’re about safety, visibility, and enforcement. Excessively dark window films can reduce driver visibility, especially at night, increasing the risk of accidents. They also hinder law enforcement from identifying individuals inside a vehicle during traffic stops, posing potential safety concerns.

Texas Tint Law Overview

In Texas—including San Antonio—window tint regulations are based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT). This is the percentage of visible light allowed to pass through both the window and the tint film.

The lower the VLT number, the darker the tint. For example, 20% VLT means only 20% of light passes through, while 70% means 70% of the light is allowed through.

Here’s a general breakdown of Texas laws:

Windshield: Tint is allowed only on the top 5 inches (AS-1 line) with a minimum 25% VLT.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
Back Side Windows & Rear Window: Can be any darkness on multipurpose vehicles, but restrictions apply for sedans.

Legal Window Tint Percentages by Vehicle Type

Below is a detailed overview of what’s legally permitted for various vehicle types in San Antonio:

1. Sedans

Window Location	VLT Limit	Reflectivity Limit
Windshield	25% VLT above AS-1 line	No more than 25% reflective
Front Side Windows	Minimum 25% VLT	No more than 25% reflective
Back Side Windows	Minimum 25% VLT	No more than 25% reflective
Rear Window	Minimum 25% VLT	No more than 25% reflective

Note: Sedans are more restricted than SUVs or trucks. You can’t use limo tint on the rear of a sedan unless you’re medically exempt.

2. SUVs and Vans (Multipurpose Vehicles)

Window Location	VLT Limit	Reflectivity Limit
Windshield	25% VLT above AS-1 line	No more than 25% reflective
Front Side Windows	Minimum 25% VLT	No more than 25% reflective
Back Side Windows	Any darkness allowed	No more than 25% reflective
Rear Window	Any darkness allowed	No more than 25% reflective

These vehicles offer more flexibility, especially for rear and back side windows, allowing you to go as dark as you prefer, so long as the front meets the 25% VLT requirement.

3. Trucks

Trucks are generally classified similarly to SUVs and vans, allowing the same tint regulations:

Windshield: 25% VLT above the AS-1 line
Front side windows: Minimum 25% VLT
Back side and rear windows: Any darkness is allowed

This makes trucks a popular option for those who prefer darker tinting in the back while remaining compliant with the law.

4. Commercial Vehicles

Commercial vehicles such as delivery vans, utility trucks, or service vehicles may have different federal guidelines, especially if they’re governed by interstate transport laws. However, if they are registered in Texas for local use, they typically follow the same tint standards as regular SUVs or trucks.

It’s advisable to consult with a window tinting professional to determine compliance if your vehicle falls into this category.

Reflectivity Rules

Texas law also restricts reflective (mirror-like) tint:

All windows must not be more than 25% reflective.
Red, amber, or blue tints are not allowed on any window.

Reflective tints may look appealing and reduce heat more effectively, but going over the reflectivity limit can easily result in a ticket.

Medical Exceptions

Texas allows certain individuals to apply for a medical exemption to use darker tints. You must have a signed statement or prescription from a licensed physician or optometrist that states you require darker window film due to a medical condition.

The exemption form must be submitted to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and, once approved, must be kept in the vehicle at all times.

What Happens If You Violate Tint Laws?

If your tint is found to be out of compliance during a traffic stop or vehicle inspection, you could face:

A fine (usually up to $200)
A notice to remove or replace the tint
Vehicle inspection failure (especially important for annual inspections in Texas)

It’s always safer—and cheaper—to stay within the law.

Get Professional Tinting Help in San Antonio

Understanding and following local tint laws is essential, but it can also be confusing—especially with variations between vehicle types. This is where professional services come in.

At our business, we specialize in residential, commercial, and Car Window tinting San Antonio. We ensure that every job we do meets both aesthetic goals and legal compliance. Whether you drive a sedan or SUV, our team knows exactly what’s allowed and what works best for your needs and your vehicle type.

Conclusion

Window tinting offers numerous benefits, but legal compliance is non-negotiable. By understanding San Antonio’s tint laws and how they apply to different types of vehicles, you can avoid penalties while enjoying improved privacy, UV protection, and style. When in doubt, always consult a certified window tinting professional to ensure your tint is both beautiful and legal.