West Virginia Window Tint Laws Explained: Legal VLT Limits for 2026
Complete guide to West Virginia window tint laws for 2026. Learn legal VLT limits for sedans, SUVs, and trucks, plus medical exemptions and penalty details.
On this page
West Virginia’s window tint laws, found under WV Code §17C-15-46, set a 35% VLT minimum on front side windows and follow the standard sedan-vs-SUV split that most states use. The state’s approach gives drivers reasonable flexibility while maintaining the visibility standards that law enforcement prioritizes.
What VLT Percentages Does West Virginia Allow?
| Window Position|Sedans|SUVs & Trucks Windshield|Non-reflective strip above AS-1 line|Non-reflective strip above AS-1 line Front Side Windows|35% VLT minimum|35% VLT minimum Rear Side Windows|35% VLT minimum|Any darkness allowed Rear Window|35% VLT minimum|Any darkness allowed |
|---|
West Virginia uses a 35% VLT standard for all sedan windows.|SUVs and trucks have unrestricted rear windows.|West Virginia requires annual vehicle inspections that include a tint check.|No manufacturer sticker is required.|Reflective and mirrored tint finishes are prohibited.|Red, yellow, and amber tint colors are banned.
Penalties
Illegal tint in West Virginia can result in fines and inspection failure. West Virginia’s annual vehicle inspection includes a tint check, making it difficult to maintain non-compliant film long-term. Fines typically range from $25 to $100 for tint violations during traffic stops.
Good Questions, Straight Answers
What is the darkest legal tint in West Virginia?|35% on all sedan windows. SUVs/trucks: 35% front, any darkness rear. Will I fail inspection for tint?|Yes. West Virginia’s annual inspection includes a tint check. Is 20% tint legal?|Not on front sides or sedan windows. Legal on SUV/truck rear windows. What tint colors are banned?|Red, yellow, and amber tint colors are prohibited. Can I get a medical exemption?|Yes, with physician documentation kept in the vehicle.
Ready For Your Exact Quote?
Sixty seconds of questions, one honest number, from DFW's 5.0-rated installer.
Get My Free Quote