Texas Window Tint Laws in 2026: Darkness, Windshields & Inspections

Confident choices start with the finished glass

Texas DPS requires the side windows immediately beside the driver to transmit at least 25% of visible light, with luminous reflectance no greater than 25%. The requirement applies to film and original glass together.

Factory glass affects the final reading, so the shade printed on a film label is only the starting point. Our team helps you choose appearance and heat-control technology with the finished-glass requirement in mind. Premium solar-control films give you options beyond simply going darker.

Rear windows: choose privacy that suits your driving

DPS exempts side windows behind the driver from these restrictions. Rear-window darkness is unrestricted when suitable outside mirrors on both sides provide the required rearward view. Without those mirrors, DPS specifies rear-window transmission and reflectance limits.

We help you compare privacy with night-driving and parking visibility, using the shade visualizer as an appearance preview before discussing your actual glass.

Windshield comfort and Texas placement rules

For sunscreening devices, DPS specifies placement above the AS-1 line, or the top five inches when there is no AS-1 line. It also specifies at least 25% combined transmission, no more than 25% reflectance and no red, amber or blue tint.

Separately, clear, un-tinted UV film is permitted anywhere on the windshield without a medical exemption. A 70% label alone does not establish that exception.

70% film is a common windshield choice at Executive Tint for solar comfort with a light appearance. We explain Ceramic IR and Crystalline product options, visibility and applicable placement requirements before you choose. Our windshield tint guide explains the comfort benefits. Visit a shop to see samples and feel the ceramic yourself.

What changed with Texas inspections?

Texas ended routine safety inspections for non-commercial vehicles on January 1, 2025. Window equipment requirements remain in place. Commercial inspections continue, and eligible vehicles in emissions-testing counties still need emissions tests.

Choose your tint around current equipment rules, independent of your vehicle’s inspection schedule. Our team can explain the tint requirements relevant to your setup.

Labels and medical exceptions

DPS specifies a compliance label at the rearmost bottom corner of the driver’s side window. For a qualifying medical exception, its guidance explains the signed physician or optometrist statement to keep in the vehicle. Consult your medical professional and DPS about eligibility.

Choose a cooler, more comfortable drive

Executive Tint pairs genuine 3M and BlackMax films with experienced, certified installation. Compare our films, request a vehicle-specific quote or book your Houston shop. We will help you understand the options rather than leave you to judge by a shade number alone.

General educational guidance based on the official DPS sources below; consult DPS for current rules and exceptions.