Oregon Window Tint Laws (2026): Legal Limits, Darkest Tint Allowed & Quick-Reference Guide

Oregon’s window tint laws haven’t changed much since they were first enacted in 2003, but the fines for getting it wrong have a way of getting your attention. Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, or truck in the Portland metro area, here’s everything you need to know about legal tint limits in Oregon for 2026.

At Elite Protective Films in Boring, Oregon, we install window tint for drivers across the greater Portland area every day. Below is the same quick-reference guide we hand to customers before every appointment.

 

 

Oregon Window Tint VLT Limits 2026 Quick-Reference Chart

This table summarizes the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages required by Oregon law (ORS 815.221). VLT measures how much light passes through the window and film combined; the lower the number, the darker the tint.

Key takeaway: Sedans must keep every window (except the windshield visor strip) at 35% VLT or lighter. SUVs, vans, and trucks offer more flexibility with rear side windows, and the back window can be as dark as you want.

 

 

What Is Visible Light Transmission (VLT)?

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission. It’s the percentage of visible light that passes through your window glass and tint film combined. A higher number means more light gets in (lighter tint); a lower number means less light gets in (darker tint).

For example, factory glass on most vehicles already blocks some light and typically has a VLT of 70–80% before any aftermarket film is applied. When a shop installs 35% VLT film on that glass, the combined reading may actually test slightly below 35%. That’s why professional installers account for the glass itself when selecting the right film shade.

 

 

What Is the Darkest Legal Tint in Oregon?

The darkest legal tint in Oregon depends on your vehicle type and which window you’re tinting:

• Front side windows (all vehicles): 35% VLT is the legal minimum. Your tint must allow at least 35% of visible light through.
• Rear side windows and rear window (sedans): Also 35% VLT minimum.
• Rear side windows and rear window (SUVs, vans, trucks): No VLT restriction, you can go as dark as you want, including 5% “limo tint.”
• Windshield: Only the top 6 inches can be tinted, and the film must be non-reflective.

So if you drive an SUV or truck, you can legally have very dark privacy tint on the back half of your vehicle while keeping the front side windows at 35%. This is one of the most popular setups we install at our shop near Portland.

 

 

Is 5% Tint Legal in Oregon?

It depends on the window and vehicle type. A 5% tint (often called “limo tint”) is extremely dark, allowing only 5% of visible light through.

• On front side windows: No. 5% tint is illegal on the front side windows of any vehicle in Oregon. The minimum is 35% VLT.
• On rear side windows and rear window of SUVs/vans/trucks: Yes. Oregon places no darkness restriction on the rear windows of multi-purpose vehicles, so 5% tint is legal on the rear windows.
• On rear windows of sedans: No. Sedans must maintain a VLT of at least 35% on all windows.

If you’re caught with 5% tint on your sedan’s front or rear windows, you’re looking at a Class B traffic violation and a fine of up to $360.

Want to know what your options are? Check out our ceramic window tint page. Ceramic films offer excellent heat rejection at legal VLT levels, so you get the comfort without the ticket.

 

 

Can You Tint Your Windshield in Oregon?

Partially. Oregon law allows non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches of your windshield. This is commonly called a “sun strip” or “visor strip.” It helps reduce glare from the sun, especially during low-angle sunrise and sunset hours that Portland-area drivers know well.

You cannot tint the rest of your windshield in Oregon. Any film applied below that 6-inch strip is illegal, regardless of its lightness or darkness. The only exception is if you have a medical exemption (more on that below).

 

 

Oregon Window Tint Rules for Sedans and Coupes

If your vehicle is classified as a passenger vehicle (sedan, coupe, hatchback, convertible, station wagon), every window has the same standard:

• Windshield: Non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches only.
• Front side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light through (≥ 35% VLT).
• Rear side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light through (≥ 35% VLT).
• Rear window: Must allow more than 35% of light through (≥ 35% VLT).

The consistency makes it simple: 35% VLT across the board for sedans. No exceptions for the back windows.

 

 

Oregon Window Tint Rules for SUVs, Vans, and Trucks

Multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, trucks) get more lenient rules on the back half:

• Windshield: Non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches only.
• Front side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light through (≥ 35% VLT).
• Rear side windows: Any darkness is allowed no VLT restriction.
• Rear window: Any darkness is allowed no VLT restriction.

This is why you see so many SUVs and trucks around Portland with dark rear windows and lighter front windows. It’s completely legal and gives you privacy and UV protection where it matters most.

Thinking about tinting your truck? Read our guide to truck window tinting benefits and options.

 

 

Window Tint Reflectivity Rules in Oregon

Oregon limits how reflective (or “mirrored”) your window tint can appear. For both sedans and SUVs/vans/trucks:

• Front side windows: Must not exceed 13% reflectivity.
• Rear side windows: Must not exceed 13% reflectivity.

Highly reflective or mirrored-looking films can attract citations even if your VLT is within legal limits. Modern ceramic tint films offer excellent heat rejection with minimal reflectivity, keeping you compliant and comfortable.

 

 

Other Oregon Window Tint Rules You Should Know

Beyond VLT and reflectivity, Oregon has several additional regulations:

• Side Mirrors: If any window behind the driver is tinted, your vehicle must have dual side mirrors. Most vehicles come with these standard features, but it’s worth confirming.
• Restricted Tint Colours: Oregon prohibits red, gold, yellow, amber, and black tint films. Standard gray, charcoal, and neutral tones are all fine.
• Installer Certificates: Oregon law requires your tint installer to provide a certificate documenting the film’s VLT and reflectance levels. A reputable shop will provide this automatically. At Elite Protective Films, we include compliance documentation with every installation.
• Stickers: Oregon does not require a legal tint identification sticker on your vehicle.
• Medical Exemptions: If you have a medical condition that requires additional UV or light protection, Oregon allows exemptions for a darker tint. You’ll need documentation signed by a licensed physician or optometrist. Keep the paperwork in your vehicle at all times. Officers may ask to see it during a traffic stop.

 

 

Penalties for Illegal Window Tint in Oregon

Illegal tint isn’t just a “fix-it” issue in Oregon. Here’s what you’re looking at if your windows don’t meet legal requirements:

The $360 fine often costs more than having a professional shop install legal tint in the first place. If you’re unsure about your current tint, we offer free VLT checks at our Boring, Oregon, location.

Wondering about costs? See our complete window tinting cost guide.

 

 

Local Enforcement: What Portland-Area Drivers Should Know

Enforcement of Oregon’s tint laws can vary by jurisdiction. In the greater Portland metro area including Clackamas County, Multnomah County, and Washington County, officers generally carry handheld tint meters and can measure your VLT on the spot during routine traffic stops.

Local courts may interpret certain details of the law slightly differently, so it’s always smart to stay comfortably within the legal limits rather than pushing the boundary. Our recommendation: don’t go darker than 35% on any window that requires it, and you’ll never have an issue.

For the most current information, check with the Oregon DMV or your local law enforcement office.

 

 

Oregon Window Tint FAQs

What VLT is legal on front windows in Oregon?

All vehicles must have at least 35% VLT on the front side windows. This applies to sedans, SUVs, vans, and trucks alike.

Can I get a medical exemption for a darker tint?

Yes. Oregon allows medical exemptions with documentation from a licensed physician or optometrist. The exemption document must be kept in the vehicle at all times.

Do I need a tint certificate in Oregon?

Your installer is required by law to provide a certificate showing the film’s VLT and reflectance. Keep it with your vehicle records.

What if I bought my car in another state with a darker tint?

Oregon law applies to all vehicles registered or required to be registered in the state. If your tint doesn’t meet Oregon standards, you’ll need to have it replaced or removed to avoid citations.

Are there any new Oregon tint laws for 2026?

No. Oregon’s tint laws have remained largely unchanged since they were enacted in 2003. The 35% VLT minimum for front windows and the 13% reflectivity limit are still in effect for 2026. Minor wording clarifications have been added over the years, but the core limits are the same.

 

 

Ready to Get Your Windows Tinted? Book With Elite Protective Films

Elite Protective Films is located in Boring, Oregon, and serves drivers throughout the Portland metro area, including Portland, Beaverton, Clackamas, Gresham, Happy Valley, and surrounding communities. We install window tint that meets Oregon law, looks great, and lasts for years.

Every installation includes:

• Compliance documentation with VLT and reflectance certification
• Professional-grade ceramic and standard tint films from trusted manufacturers
• Expert advice on the best VLT for your vehicle, driving needs, and budget

Have questions about Oregon tint laws or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today or visit our window tinting services page to learn more.