Window tint law reference · DE

Delaware Window Tint Laws (2026)

Short answer

In Delaware, front side windows: 50%. Back side windows: Any darkness. Rear window: Any darkness. These limits are for sedans.

Last verified:

Law change: Front side limit changed from 70% to 50% on August 17, 2026.

Delaware tint limits at a glance

Front side windows50%
Back side windowsAny darkness
Rear windowAny darkness
WindshieldAbove the AS-1 line only
ReflectivityCheck statute
SUVs, vans and trucksSame as cars

Percentages are the minimum visible light transmission with the film installed, including the factory glass. A lower number means darker tint.

Is 5%, 20%, 35% or 50% tint legal in Delaware?

This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Delaware. Factory glass blocks some light, so a film reads darker once it's installed.

Film ratingFront side windowsBack side windowsRear window
5% Not legalLegalLegal
15% Not legalLegalLegal
20% Not legalLegalLegal
35% Not legalLegalLegal
50% Likely too dark once installedLegalLegal
70% LegalLegalLegal

'Likely too dark once installed' means the film rating meets the limit, but on typical factory glass the combined reading usually falls under it. Meter the window to be sure.

Choosing a film that stays legal

Assume factory side glass passes about 80% of light.

  • Front side windows: 65% film or lighter
  • Back side windows: Any film
  • Rear window: Any film

Factory privacy glass on many SUVs already reads well under 30%, so any film added over it will read darker still. Always meter after the install.

Fines and penalties

Delaware's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.

Medical exemptions

Carry a signed statement from a licensed physician or optometrist verifying the tint is medically necessary.

Law history

  • : Front side limit lowered from 70% to 50% (SS 1 for SB 255).

The law

Delaware's tint rules are set by 21 Del. C. § 4313 (as amended by SS 1 for SB 255). Read the source

This page is a reference for drivers and installers, not legal advice. Enforcement can vary by city and county.

Frequently asked questions

How dark can you legally tint your windows in Delaware?

On a sedan, front side windows: 50%. Back side windows: Any darkness. Rear window: Any darkness.

Is 20% tint legal in Delaware?

Front: Not legal. Back: Legal. Rear: Legal. See the 20% film row.

Is 35% tint legal in Delaware?

Front: Not legal. Back: Legal. Rear: Legal. See the 35% film row.

Is tint allowed on the windshield in Delaware?

Above the AS-1 line only

Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Delaware?

Same as cars

Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Delaware?

Carry a signed statement from a licensed physician or optometrist verifying the tint is medically necessary.

Did Delaware change its tint law recently?

Front side limit changed from 70% to 50% on August 17, 2026.

Related

Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state

Neighboring states:

Data set last updated: