Many drivers are wondering if they need front windshield tint. There are many reasons why people have their car windows tinted. Among other benefits, tinting can protect your car from the harmful UV rays, as well as keep you and other passengers more comfortable during lengthy trips.

If you’re interested in adding extra privacy or creating a stylish look for your car, getting window tinting may be the answer for you. When it comes to front windshield tinting, it’s crucial to understand all the benefits, downsides, and take into account important legal factors. Let’s explore all of these.

Table of contents:

1. Is Tinting a Front Windshield Legal?
2. Tinting AS-1 Line
3. Tinting Below AS-1 Line
4. Types of Front Windshield Tinting
5. How Much Does Windshield Tinting Cost?
6. Do You Need Tinting on Front Windshield?
7. Final Thoughts

Is Tinting a Front Windshield Legal?

The legality of tinting the front windshield of a vehicle varies by location. In some states it is legal to tint the front windshield as long as the tint is not too dark and meets certain requirements. In most states, it is illegal to tint the front windshield below AS-1 line. And, in a few states no windshield tint is allowed whatsoever, unless vehicle’s windshield is manufactured as such.

Find your state on our homepage. Our accurate and up to date information will tell you if tinting windshields is legal in your state.

Tinting AS-1 Line

AS-1 line is a term used to refer to a demarcation line on the front windshield of a vehicle. The AS-1 line typically extends 4-6 inches from the top of the windshield.

In most states and countries, there are laws regulating the amount of tint that can be applied to the front windshield of a vehicle. These laws often specify that the tint must not extend below the AS-1 line. This is to ensure that the driver has an unobstructed view of the road ahead.

The AS-1 line is used as a reference point when applying tint to the front windshield to ensure that the tint meets the requirements of the law. It is marked on the front windshield by the manufacturer or by the company that installs the tint.

Most states allow some level of tint on the AS-1 part of the windshield. But, the laws are very different from state to state. Some allow a certain VLT percentage, a few permit gradients, and several states outright ban any aftermarket tinting on AS1. It’s crucial to check your state’s tint laws for specific information, but thankfully we have you covered.

Tinting Below AS-1 Line

Applying front windshield tint below AS-1 line is illegal in almost all of United States. Only a few states permit windshield tinting, and never under 70% VLT. See our window tint examples to better understand VLT (Visible Light Transmission) levels and darkness.

If you already decided to tint your front windscreen, you must always do your best to stay within legal limits. If your concern is privacy, keep in mind that tinting other vehicle windows means less light passes into your vehicle, and driver is already less visible.

As you may notice from our example images, even 50% VLT windshield tint can appear very dark. Always bear in mind that tinted windshields can make driving at night, in tunnels, or in poor lighting conditions difficult.

Any tint under 30% VLT makes it very difficult to see the driver, which can be dangerous for other drivers or pedestrians. See more reasons why tinting can be illegal.

On top of these concerns, full windshield tint truly makes your vehicle a magnet for frequent traffic stops. In states where window tint is a primary offense, front windshield tinting is not a good idea. In states where tinting is a secondary offense, police officers can not stop you solely based on illegal window tinting.

Types of Front Windshield Tinting

Aside from choosing whether to tint only the AS-1 line or the entire front windshield, you can also choose between three main types of tints:

1. The first, and most common type, is a clear or transparent film. In this case, the tint is used to prevent the sun from shining through the windshield, and is most effective at keeping heat out.
2. A second type of tint is called a reflective tint. With this, the film is applied so that it reflects some of the sun’s rays. While reflective film keeps heat out, it still allows some light in.
3. Third, gradient tint film is often used on front windshield’s AS-1. This type will be pass less light on top part, and more in bottom part.

Keep in mind that most states do not allow reflective tint to be installed. Those that do will not allow more than 25% reflection. Reflective tint can reflect sun glare, and is considered distracting and even dangerous to other drivers.

How Much Does Windshield Tinting Cost?

The price of tinting your windshield will vary based on several factors, including the type of tinting film you choose, type of vehicle, and your location.

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $100 to $200 for front windshield tinting. Because of multiple different factors, it can be difficult to estimate exact costs of windshield tint.

Here are all the cost factors you need to consider:

• If you’re considering a custom-tinted front window, you’ll need to first determine how many windows need to be tinted. Some companies offer packages that include both front and rear window tinting. Furthermore, tinting AS-1 line is cheaper compared to tinting full front windshield.
• Next, you’ll want to consider the type of tinting film you want to use. Carbon or Ceramic foil is best for heat rejection, and these can make a massive impact to interior vehicle temperature. Our tint film types article has a breakdown of different types, including a handy comparison of heat rejection, longevity, and other factors of each film type. We truly recommend checking it out.
• On top of this, there are a few different color options available. Green, blue, purple or yellow are commonly seen on tinted windshields. However, it is crucial to refer to our window tint laws to determine if using any of these colors is legal in your jurisdiction. You should also avoid using colored tint below AS-1 line.
• Lastly, prices can be impacted by type of vehicle, with coupes and sedans being cheapest, and prices going up for SUVs, pickups, or other vehicle types.

Let’s not forget that each individual tint shop has its own price list. Additionally, tinting other windows besides front windshield can reduce overall costs, because most businesses will offer price discounts for tinting multiple windows.

You should research and compare prices from different tint shops in your area. It’s always a good idea to get a few quotes from local tint shops to ensure you’re getting the best price.

Do You Need Tinting On Front Windshield?

Tinting your front windshield can be a beneficial enhancement for your vehicle, offering multiple advantages. One of the primary benefits is the reduction of glare from the sun, which can significantly improve visibility and driving comfort, especially during sunrise and sunset.

However, it’s important to consider the legal and safety implications before deciding to tint your front windshield. Many states have specific regulations regarding the permissible level of tint on windshields to ensure that drivers maintain adequate visibility, particularly at night or in adverse weather conditions. Overly dark tints can impair your ability to see clearly, potentially leading to accidents.

When determining if you should get front windshield tinted, weigh in different pros and cons:

• Is it legal in your area?
• Do you (or others who use your vehicle) have vision impairment?
• Are you frequently driving across state lines?
• Will you be okay with paying traffic tickets, or removing the tint if ordered to?
• Does your car insurance company pay out in case you are in a traffic accident with illegal vehicle equipment?

As always, we never advise installing illegal window tint. However, the reality is that many drivers install darker tint than law allows, so it’s important to be aware of penalties and other consequences.

Final Thoughts

It’s crucial to choose a tint that complies with local laws and balances the benefits of reduced glare and UV protection with the necessity of safe driving. Once again, it is very important to read your state laws and see which tint colors you are allowed to use, and how dark can your windshield tint be.