Every week, drivers stop by Blue Rose Auto Repair asking about Oregon window tinting laws. Some just bought a car with tinted windows and want to check if it’s legal. Others are thinking about tinting their windows but aren’t sure how dark they can go. It’s a common question—and a smart one—since Oregon is pretty specific about what’s allowed.
Let’s go through what’s legal, what isn’t, and how to stay compliant, just like we’d explain it in our shop.
Why Window Tinting Rules Exist in Oregon
Window tinting isn’t just about looks—it’s about safety. The state regulates tint darkness and reflection levels to make sure drivers can see clearly, especially at night, and that law enforcement can see inside vehicles during traffic stops.
If you’re planning to get your windows tinted or are driving a car that already has tint, it’s best to understand the current Oregon window tinting laws before you find yourself facing a ticket.
Oregon Window Tinting Laws for Cars
The rules are based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which measures how much light passes through your windows. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- Front side windows: Must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.
- Back side windows: Can be darker, as long as you have dual side mirrors.
- Rear window: Can match the back side windows.
- Windshield: Only allowed tint along the top six inches (the “AS-1 line”).
These numbers come straight from Oregon window tinting laws for cars, and police use tint meters to measure compliance during stops.
If your tint doesn’t meet these numbers, you could be required to remove it and pay a fine.
What’s the Darkest Legal Tint in Oregon
A lot of people ask about the darkest legal tint in Oregon. The short answer: 35% for the front windows.
That means your tint must let in at least 35% of light—dark enough to reduce glare, but still clear enough for visibility and safety.
For the back side and rear windows, you have more flexibility, but staying above 20% keeps you out of trouble. Anything darker than that can attract unwanted attention from law enforcement.
Our car window tinting team always makes sure your tint stays within state limits, so you can enjoy privacy and comfort without risking a fine.
Is 20 Percent Tint Legal in Oregon?
This question comes up all the time. Is 20 percent tint legal in Oregon?
Not for your front side windows.
Oregon law requires at least 35% light transmission up front. However, 20% is allowed for the rear side and back windows—if your car has dual mirrors that provide a clear rear view.
So if you want that darker, more private look, we can safely apply 20% on the back half of your car while keeping the front legal.
Is 5 Tint Legal in Oregon?
No—it’s not. 5 tint (which allows only 5% of light through) is extremely dark, and it’s illegal on all windows for passenger cars in Oregon.
You might see it on limousines or certain commercial vehicles, but those follow separate regulations.
We often remove illegal tint for customers who recently bought used cars. If your car has 5% tint, it’s worth bringing it in. We’ll test it, explain what needs changing, and apply the proper legal film.
Oregon Tint Laws 2025: What’s Changed?
For 2025, the Oregon tint laws remain mostly the same as in previous years. The state still requires a minimum of 35% VLT on front windows and limits reflective tints that can create glare.
Some minor clarifications were added, including clearer wording about rearview mirrors and the use of manufacturer certification labels for tint films. When we install new tint, we include the proper label inside the door jamb to verify it meets Oregon standards.
So, if you’ve heard about “new Oregon tint laws 2025,” the basics haven’t changed much—but the state continues to monitor compliance closely.
Why Legal Tinting Matters
A lot of people underestimate how much trouble illegal tint can cause.
Here’s what can happen:
- Tickets and fines: Oregon officers can issue citations for illegal tint, and it’s often an immediate fix-it ticket.
- Inspection failures: Too-dark tint can prevent you from passing inspections or registration renewals.
- Safety issues: At night or during bad weather, dark tint reduces visibility, which increases the risk of accidents.
That’s why it’s smart to work with professionals who understand and follow the law. Our installers at Blue Rose Auto Repair know the Oregon codes inside and out.
What’s the Difference Between Factory Tint and Aftermarket Tint
This is another point of confusion we often explain in our auto detailing department.
Factory tint is built into the glass itself and usually only applies to rear windows. It’s lighter and doesn’t provide UV rejection like aftermarket films.
Aftermarket tint is a film applied to the inside of your windows. It offers UV protection, privacy, and heat control—but it must meet Oregon’s legal limits.
If you’re unsure what kind you have, we can check it with our tint meter and let you know if it’s compliant with Oregon window tinting laws.
What Happens If You’re Caught With Illegal Tint?
If you get pulled over for illegal tint, you’ll likely get a fix-it ticket. That means you’ll need to remove or replace the film and provide proof it’s legal afterward.
Some drivers risk leaving it on, but that usually leads to higher fines later. It’s cheaper and safer to have it tested and corrected right away.
We regularly help customers around Auto Protection & Repair Services in Eugene, Oregon and Auto Protection & Repair Services in Thurston Springfield, Oregon handle these adjustments quickly.
How We Keep Tint Jobs Legal and Safe
When we install tint, we check:
- Light transmission levels: Our meters confirm the tint meets Oregon’s 35% rule.
- Proper reflection: Oregon limits how reflective a tint can be to avoid glare.
- Film quality: We use trusted brands that include UV protection and don’t bubble or peel.
If a customer comes from Auto Protection & Repair Services in Hayden Bridge, Oregon or Auto Protection & Repair Services in Goshen, Oregon, we offer the same process—precise measurement, legal compliance, and professional finish.
See Also:
- Major Car Repair Costs Explained by a Local Mechanic
- How Often to Start Your Car to Avoid Issues: Complete Educational Guide
- How Often Should You Replace Your Car Battery: Complete Educational Guide
- Signs That Your Battery Has to Be Replaced Before You Get Stranded
- Wheel Alignment vs Front End Alignment Explained for Oregon Roads
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