Virginia Tint Laws
The summary of Virginia’s aftermarket tint law information is the result of independent research, using several sources of public state documents. It is not a legal document. Window tinting laws vary from state to state. Installers should thoroughly review the appropriate and current Virginia state regulations before applying any window tinting materials. They should also review local enforcement policies to ensure compliance with all applicable standards.
| Law Enacted | 1999 |
| Windshield Tint | Tint allowed above AS-1 line only |
| Front Side Windows | Minimum 50% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) |
| Back Side (Car) | Minimum 35% VLT |
| Back Side (MPV) | Any tint darkness allowed |
| Rear Window (Car) | Minimum 35% VLT |
| Rear Window (MVP) | Any tint darkness allowed |
| Reflectivity (Front/Back Side) | Up to 20% reflectivity allowed; mirrored tint prohibited |
| Restricted Tint Colors | Red, Amber, Yellow |
| Side Mirrors Required | Yes, if rear window is tinted |
| Tint Certification Sticker | Not Required |
| Medical Exemption | Yes -- permitted with documentation |
Explanation of the State Law Summary Chart
Film VLT%: Refers to the film itself
Net VLT%: Refers to the combined film & glass
Vague: The language of the law is unclear, legislative intent is unclear, or interpretation is uncertain.
Windshield: Presumably, NR tinting is permitted above the AS-1 line. If the law specifies only the AS-1 line, AS-1 appears. If AS-1 or specified inches appears, the AS-1 is assumed and only the number of inches down appears. (Note: NR is used in lieu of “No, Any, or a specific percentage” when the law permits unspecified “nonobstructive” or “Transparent” tinting materials. In these cases, the legality of tinting inevitably depends upon each officer’s discretion.
Front Sides: No film or the actual percentage of VLT permitted. (Note: Because they may vary from state to state, manufacturer’s tolerances (i.e. + / – 3% VLT) are not listed on this chart.)
MPV: Multi-Purpose Vehicle, a vehicle with motive power, except a trailer, designed to carry ten people or less that is constructed either on a truck chassis or has special features for occasional off-road operation.
Back Sides: No film or the actual percentage of VLT permitted.
Rear: No film or the actual percentage of VLT permitted.
% of Reflectivity: Refers to the reflectivity of the film itself
NR: Not Regulated
NE: Not excessive (not specific)
MNIR: Must not increase reflectivity
MBNR: Must be non-reflective (not specific)
NMMA: No metallic or mirrored appearance
NONE: No reference to reflectivity in the current law
Restricted Colors: R (Red), A (Amber), Y (Yellow), B (Blue), G (Gold), BK (Black), N/S (Not specified)
Left and Right Mirrors: YES or NO.
*Note: Usually, a YES means that dual outside mirrors are required if the back window is to be tinted.
Sticker Location: Sticker Location | NO: No sticker is required
Recommend: Sticker is recommended; can assist officers in identifying legal tint more easily.
Spec (Specific Location): The State requires unique language & design, which may entail precise wording and sizing.
Driver: The sticker is required between the film & glass on the driver’s side window.
Door: The sticker is required on the inside of the driver’s side doorjamb.
All: The sticker should be put between the film & glass on each tinted window.
Medical Exemption: YES or NO.
*Note: For more details about the specific terms of the exemption, consult the law.