Washington generally requires at least 24% net transmission and no more than 35% reflectance outside the windshield. Certain manufacturer-identified and special-use vehicles may have darker glass behind the driver.
Read the official sources ↓Rules by window
| Window | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Windshield | A transparent top strip must not enter the AS-1 portion or extend more than 6 inches down. The statute separately allows clear UV-reducing film on windshields. |
| Front side | At least 24% net transmission and no more than 35% reflectance; both outside mirrors are required. |
| Rear side | Ordinarily at least 24%. Listed special-use vehicles and manufacturer-identified trucks, motor homes, and qualifying multipurpose passenger vehicles may go darker behind the driver, keeping reflectance at or below 35% and both mirrors. |
| Rear window | The same ordinary 24% standard and vehicle-class exception apply, with a 35% reflectance ceiling and both outside mirrors. |
Appearance and the installer sticker
Mirror-finish products; red, gold, yellow, or black material; and brushed- or sprayed-on liquid film are prohibited. For-profit installers tinting restricted glazing areas must supply a compliance sticker for the driver’s door post next to the manufacturer identification tag.
Mirrors and vehicle classification
For tinted windows other than the windshield, each outside mirror must provide a rearward road view of at least 200 feet. The darker-rear exception depends on the listed category or manufacturer identification, so confirm the vehicle classification rather than assuming every SUV qualifies.
Medical verification
A driver or passenger needing protection from sunlight for physical or medical reasons must possess written verification from a licensed physician. Washington State Patrol says there is no state exemption form to submit: carry the verification and provide it on request. The windshield medical allowance concerns the top 6 inches, not a general dark full-windshield exemption.
Before you rely on this guide
This is general information, not legal advice, a vehicle inspection, or permission to install a particular film. Exceptions and enforcement procedures can depend on your circumstances.
- The clear-UV-film provision should not be read as permission for visibly dark full-windshield film. Federally regulated commercial vehicles have different requirements.
The research date shows when the sources were checked. It is not the date the law took effect, and it does not mean this page is monitored continuously. This research preview still awaits human editorial review; we do not claim attorney review.
Official sources
- Washington RCW 46.37.430 ↗
Official current statute: net screening, limits, class exceptions, one-sheet rule, windshield allowances, colors, and installer sticker.
- Washington State Patrol: Vehicle and Equipment Requirements ↗
Official practical guidance confirms medical verification carried in the vehicle and warns that federal commercial-vehicle rules differ.