Tinted windows didn't get their popularity for no reason. They offer privacy, protection from the sun, heat reduction and a sleek look. But not all state governments are as impressed by what tints have to offer. Some states impose strict regulations about how dark your windows can be to improve safety and visibility on the road.

If you live in Virginia, you probably found your way to this page because you're looking for information about Virginia window tint laws. Look no further, as we've collected the information you need for tinting your car windows in this coastal state.

Is Window Tint Legal in Virginia?

So, is window tint legal in VA? We typically measure the tint of glass in percentages of visible light transmission (VLT), which refers to the amount of light that passes through the window. For instance, if your window has a tint of 35%, it allows 35% of entering light to come through and blocks out 65%.

In most states, various types of windows have different maximum VLT percentages, and VA tint laws are no exception. Plus, it can vary depending on whether you drive a passenger vehicle or a multi-purpose vehicle. Passenger vehicles include cars like sedans, hatchbacks and coupes, while multi-use passenger vehicles are larger, like SUVs, RVs, pickup trucks, vans and campers.

Below are the maximum amounts of window tint legal for Virginia passenger vehicles.

• Windshield: Only non-reflective tints above the AS-1 line
• Front side windows: 50%
• Rear side windows: 35%
• Rear window: 35%

The following tint percentages are the maximum allowed for multi-use passenger vehicles in Virginia.

• Windshield: Only non-reflective tints above the AS-1 line
• Front side windows: 50%
• Rear side windows: No limitations on tints
• Rear windows: No limitations on tints

Manufacturers mark the AS-1 line, which usually runs parallel to and about five inches below the top of the windshield.

Some tints are reflective, and in Virginia, these must not exceed 20% reflectivity and are only legal on the front and rear side windows for both car categories. Note that red, amber and yellow colors are illegal, and dual side mirrors are a requirement for vehicles with a tinted rear window.

Keep in mind that these VLT percentages reflect the total amount of light that goes through. That means if you purchased a car with some amount of built-in window tint, you need to combine those numbers to understand the true value of your car's VLT.

Typical tint percentages include the following.

• 50%: A 50% tint is one of the most practical options for reducing glare and creating a sleek appearance.
• 35%: A 35% tint window film is a darker option, only allowed on rear windows and rear side windows in Virginia.
• 20%: A 20% window tint provides more darkness, but is only legal on rear windows and rear side windows on multi-use passenger vehicles.
• 5%: The darkest option for tinting your car, 5% window tints black out your windows. Like the 20% tint, it is only legal on rear windows and rear side windows on multi-use passenger vehicles.

Remember that just because VA window tint laws prohibit you from putting the darkest tints on your vehicle, that doesn't mean you can't use it on show cars and display vehicles. Since you won't be driving these cars on the road, you have more freedom to tint as you please.

VA Window Tint Exceptions

Not everyone in this state must follow these limits — but only those with a medical reason can typically get an exemption. Some medical conditions make you more susceptible to problems from excessive sunlight. We've written about them before, so feel free to read up on medical window tints for more information. As a brief rundown, some of the conditions that may receive medical authorization include:

• Albinism
• Bloom syndrome
• Cockayne syndrome
• Erythropoietic protoporphyria
• Solar urticaria
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Xeroderma pigmentosum

If you have any of those conditions or another reason for sun sensitivity and straightforward methods like sunglasses won't solve the problem, you may be able to get a doctor's note and medical authorization for darker window tints.

The actual amount of tint can vary according to your doctor's specifications. The maximum medical window tint is 35% for the front side, rear side and rear windows, and you can go up to 70% on the entire windshield.

How to Safely Tint Your Windows in VA

If you're looking to tint your windows, there are a few ways to do it. Multiple forms of tint can allow you more control over the level of darkness you're creating.

The most popular way to tint your window is to use a dyed window film. It will protect you from UV rays — which can also damage the interior of your car over time — but it won't keep your vehicle much cooler since it doesn't reflect the sun. If you're after the slick look of a tinted window, this film is the way to go. It offers the darkest appearance out of the various tint options. This film is three-ply, placing the layer of dye between a layer of adhesive and a protective coating.

Other options for window tint films are as follows.

• Metalized film: As the name would suggest, this film uses some metal in its construction. It is more effective at keeping your car cool due to its reflective surface, but it can interfere with electronic systems within your car, like the radio, cell reception, and GPS. While the metalized film should last as long as your car, it is more expensive than dyed film.
• Hybrid film: Hybrid film gets the dark look of a dyed film, with more of the UV protection from a metalized film. It contains less metal, so it won't cause as many problems with electronics as a standard metalized film.
• Ceramic film: These films are more costly, but they block UV light and heat without interfering with electronics systems.
• Carbon film: Carbon film does a good job of protecting against UV rays and heat without interference from metal. It doesn't offer the best performance in any of these areas, though, and isn't particularly cheap.

We've also written all about the details of purchasing window tint, so for more information, check out our page on the subject.

Tints From Rvinyl

We carry a wide range of window tint films, custom-cut to your car's specifications or available in rolls for the ambitious DIYer. When you choose us, you'll be working with a company that supports DIY projects. We don't leave you out to dry if something goes wrong during installation. We'll work to make it right and offer discounted replacement parts if you make a mistake.

Whether you need to darken your windows for extra shade or black them out for a sleek show car, Rvinyl's got you covered. Check out our window tints today.

*Disclaimer: The information on this page is not offered by legal professionals and is only intended to complement, not to replace or contradict, information or legal advice provided by legal professionals or your state. The information provided in this resource does not necessarily reflect that of Rvinyl or its affiliates. If you have questions, please contact your local state authorities or another legal professional.