Austin / Round Rock, TX
1509 Brandi LaneRound Rock, TX 78681
Mon–Sat 9am–6pm · Sun closed
Updated October 2026
Texas & South Carolina Window Tint Laws
How dark you can legally tint your car in Texas and South Carolina, explained in plain English.
| Window | Texas | South Carolina |
|---|---|---|
| Front side windows | 25% VLT or lighter | 27% VLT or lighter |
| Back side windows | Any darkness, if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides | 27% VLT or lighter |
| Rear window | Any darkness, if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides | 27% VLT or lighter |
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line or top 5 inches | Non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line |
| Reflectivity | No more than 25% reflective | No more than 20% reflective |
| Other rules | Red, blue and amber tints are not allowed. Medical exemptions are available with a physician's statement. | Red, amber and yellow tints are not allowed. Medical exemptions are available through the SC DMV. |
This guide is a summary, not legal advice. Laws change, so confirm with the Texas DPS or the SC DMV if you're unsure. Ask us at the shop and we'll recommend a legal shade.
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Open Mon–Sat 9am–6pm · Sun closed. Book online or call the shop directly.
Round Rock, TX 78681
Dallas / Irving, TX
1206 Luke StIrving, TX 75061
Mon–Sat 9am–6pm · Sun closed
Charleston, SC
2853 Meeting Street RoadNorth Charleston, SC 29405
Mon–Sat 9am–6pm · Sun closed
Common questions
What does VLT mean?
Visible Light Transmission: the percentage of light that passes through the glass and film. 25% VLT lets in 25% of light. Lower numbers are darker.
Is 20% tint legal in Texas?
Not on the front side windows, which must be 25% VLT or lighter. Back side and rear windows can be darker if you have both side mirrors.
Is 20% tint legal in South Carolina?
No. South Carolina requires 27% VLT or lighter on all side and rear windows.
Does factory tint count toward the limit?
Yes. The law measures the combined VLT of the glass and the film, so factory tint lowers how dark your aftermarket film can be. Ask us and we'll recommend a legal shade.
Get a quote
Tell us your car and what you want done. We'll reply with a price, no strings attached.
- No-pressure, no-obligation quote
- Window tint, PPF and ceramic coating
- Legal tint shades for your state
Prefer to call? Austin: (512) 399-4814 · Dallas: (972) 848-5395 · Charleston: (854) 946-5875