Local Laws for Window Tinting in Katy Texas

Local Laws for Window Tinting in Katy Texas

Introduction

In Texas, you are exposed to bright sunlight all around the year. Indeed, the harmful rays from the sun are dangerous not just to yourself but also to your car’s interior. Furthermore, leather of your car seats becomes worn out and faded by this continuous exposure. Besides, the heat waves increase the temperature inside the vehicle. It increases the pressure of using an air conditioner, which increases fuel consumption. It also imposes threats to your eyes and skin.

The best solution to avoid all these unwanted situations is the application of window tint films. However, in Texas, law enforcement institutes have been defining certain laws for window tinting since 2009.

What types of vehicles are exempted from the local laws for window tinting in Texas?

If you are not following the local laws, you will get a big-ticket for each law violation. However, certain vehicles are exempted from these local laws because of some concerns. Examples of such cars are:

• Vehicles are used for law enforcement by police and law enforcement agencies in the state.
• Personal vehicles i.e., buses and Limousines that transport agencies use.
• People with medical permits from licensed doctors. It must include the details like you are suffering from serious health issues, and the use of a darker tint level is necessary.

How to buy window tinting films in Texas?

If someone sells window tinting films in Texas, the manufacturer must certify the films to ensure trusted protection. Undoubtedly, everyone needs to buy these films from trusted sources that can provide you with proof of certification.

Here at Katy Car Audio, you can choose any window tinting film and get the services of our professionals for their application. We ensure our customers that our services follow the local laws that will never get them in any trouble.

Window Tinting Laws in Texas

Before going to the list of local laws about window tinting, you must know about the term Visible light transmission (VLT). For autos, it is defined as the amount of visible light transmitted inside your car’s window.

The local laws in Texas have defined VLT for each window. The window tint film application must be according to these VLT percentages. Moreover, in case of violation, you can be charged with a ticket and need to spend an additional amount on replacing the illegal window tinting films.

The below list includes the darkest tint level for sedans, vans, and SUVs legal in Katy, Texas.

·       Window shield

A minimum 25% VLT tint is legal to apple above the AS-1 line on the car.

·       Front Seat Windows

Minimum 25% VLT

·       Back Seat Windows

You are free to choose any VLT percentage for back seat windows.

·       Rear Windows

If your car has outside mirrors on each side, you can go for any VLT percentage. However, if there are no mirrors, the allowed VLT is 25%

The reflectivity of Tinting Films

If you use the window tinting films containing metallic elements, you must know about the reflectivity guidelines. These elements reflect sunlight that can minimize glare and heat levels. In Texas, a maximum of 25% reflectiveness is legal.

Other Laws

• Apply translucent films anywhere to stop UV radiation from entering your car.
• Red, amber, or blue color is illegal in all cases.
• The tinting films must be above the AS-1 line present on almost all the vehicles; if there is no AS-1 line, you can apply it five inches below the top of the windshield.

How Much Can a Window Tint Ticket Cost You?

Many people are curious to find the good cost for the law’s window tint violation. The fine can vary according to some factors like

1. How much darker tint have you applied on your car above the allowed limit?
2. How many times have you got tickets in the past?

If it is the first time you are receiving this ticket, the fine amount you will pay can be just 20 to 25 dollars. However, if you do not follow the laws again, fines increase with each ticked. For the second time penalty can increase up to 275 dollars.

Is 5% tint level legal in Texas?

The answer is simply No. 5% VLT allows only a small amount of light to pass inside the car. It can decrease the driver’s visibility on the road and increase the risk of accidents. Secondly, law enforcement agencies discourage this VLT percentage from allowing themselves to see inside the other cars. It helps them pull over any vehicle if they observe any illegal activity inside.

The minimum 25% VLT is legal which ensures the driver’s safety and others on the road. However, if you suffer from any skin or eye disorder, you can get medical permits to use darker tinting films.

^{Image: Window Tinting Percentage}

Conclusion

This blog includes all the laws related to Window tinting in Katy, Texas. It is recommendable to follow those laws to avoid getting into any trouble. Imagine you are in a hurry and cops pull over you for a law violation. You do not want that. Katy Car Audio has a wide range of products for your vehicles. You can contact us now for a consultation and buy window tinting films for your car.