District of Columbia tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 70% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | 50% |
| Rear window | 50% |
| Windshield | Above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches |
| Reflectivity | Check statute |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Minivans: 55% front, 35% behind the driver |
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 District of Columbia?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in District of Columbia. Factory glass blocks some light, so a film reads darker once it's installed.
| Film rating | Front side windows | Back side windows | Rear window |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 15% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 20% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 35% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 50% | Not legal | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed |
| 70% | Likely too dark once installed | Legal | Legal |
'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: Clear or near-clear film (88% or lighter)
- Back side windows: 65% film or lighter
- Rear window: 65% film or lighter
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
District of Columbia's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.
Medical exemptions
The DMV Director can grant an exemption for a medical condition that requires darker windows.
The law
District of Columbia's tint rules are set by D.C. Code § 50-2207.02. 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 District of Columbia?
On a sedan, front side windows: 70%. Back side windows: 50%. Rear window: 50%.
Is 20% tint legal in District of Columbia?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in District of Columbia?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in District of Columbia?
Above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in District of Columbia?
Minivans: 55% front, 35% behind the driver
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in District of Columbia?
The DMV Director can grant an exemption for a medical condition that requires darker windows.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: