Pennsylvania tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 70% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | 70% |
| Rear window | 70% |
| Windshield | 70% minimum |
| Reflectivity | Check statute |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Trucks and multipurpose vehicles: no limit 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 Pennsylvania?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Pennsylvania. 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 | Not legal | Not legal |
| 70% | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed |
'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: Clear or near-clear film (88% or lighter)
- Rear window: Clear or near-clear film (88% 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
Pennsylvania's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.
Medical exemptions
Contact the Pennsylvania DMV or state police for current medical exemption rules before installing darker tint.
Meter tolerance
Pennsylvania allows a tolerance of 3% when officers meter a window. A tolerance covers meter error. It isn't extra room to go darker.
Inspection
Tint limits are part of Pennsylvania's vehicle inspection standards.
The law
Pennsylvania's tint rules are set by 75 Pa.C.S. § 4524. 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 Pennsylvania?
On a sedan, front side windows: 70%. Back side windows: 70%. Rear window: 70%.
Is 20% tint legal in Pennsylvania?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Pennsylvania?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Pennsylvania?
70% minimum
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Pennsylvania?
Trucks and multipurpose vehicles: no limit behind the driver
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: