Our Ohio window tint laws are valid for 2023. These laws regulate how dark and reflective your car tint may be, but also specify other rules and regulations you need to know about.
| Ohio Tint Laws | |
|---|---|
| Front Windshield | 70% |
| Front Side Windows | 50% |
| Back Side Windows | No restrictions |
| Rear Windshield | No restrictions |
Last updated on: . Confirmed accurate for 2023.
How dark can your window tint be in Ohio?
Window tint darkness is measured by Visible Light Transmission percentage (VLT%). In Ohio this refers to the percent of visible light allowed in through both the film and the glass.
Drag the slider above to preview tint darkness. In most cases, applied tint will appear 5-15% darker.
See: VLT explained with chart and darkness examples
Here's exactly how much VLT is allowed on your auto window tint in Ohio (OH), categorized by passenger and multi-purpose vehicles.
Tint darkness for passenger vehicles:
- Windshield: 70% VLT below AS-1 line (top 5 inches), any VLT below AS-1.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Any darkness can be used.
- Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.
Passenger vehicles include sedan, coupe, convertible, station wagon, hardtop and hatchback vehicles.
Tint darkness for multi-purpose vehicles:
- Windshield: 70% VLT below AS-1 line (top 5 inches), any VLT below AS-1.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 50% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Any darkness can be used.
- Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.
Multi-purpose vehicles include SUV, pickups, vans, RVs, and minibuses.
AS-1 line typically extends 4-6 inches parallel to the top of your windshield. AS-1 designation line is typically marked in bottom or top edge of your windshield.
Some state tint laws specify exact number of inches you are allowed to tint on front windshields. Other states define this windscreen area simply as an AS-1 line. Learn more about AS-1 Line.
Federal vehicle ID label found on driver's front door frame will tell you whether your vehicle is classified as passenger or multi purpose vehicle.
How reflective can your window tint be in Ohio?
Tinting film may contain metallic elements which help in reflecting incoming light. This reduces glare and heat generated by visible light. Below you can find out how much reflection is permitted on your car window tint film by law in Ohio.
Tint reflection for sedans:
- Front Side windows: Must not be more reflective than a standard window.
- Back Side windows: Must not be more reflective than a standard window.
Tint reflection for SUV and vans:
- Front Side windows: Must not be more reflective than a standard window.
- Back Side windows: Must not be more reflective than a standard window.
Learn about Reflective window tint.
Other Ohio tinting rules and regulations:
Other laws, rules and regulations in Ohio include the following:
No restrictions.
Red and yellow colored tint is banned.
Manufacturers of film need to certify the film they sell in Ohio. Ask your dealer if they are using certified film.
The sticker to indicate the manufacturer's name and VLT is required between the film & glass on lower left corner on each tinted window.
Ohio tint laws do not have any medical exemptions for special tint.
Remember that state tint laws may be interpreted differently by your local law authorities. Get in touch with your county DMV or police department to make sure you are not breaking Ohio window tinting laws, rules and regulations.
Our article about Ohio tint laws is up to date as of 2023. Last change was made on October 10th, 2023 (approximately 2 months ago).
You can rest assured our legal experts are immediately notified of changes, and will always update this article with latest legislation when required.
Official law sources:
Ohio Revised Code Section 4513.241: Using tinted glass and other vision obscuring materials.
More Ohio traffic law questions?
Our partnered traffic lawyers are always online and ready to answer your questions. Get immediate answers from real attorneys and experts in their field! Ask a question now »
Ask a lawyer »
