Nevada Tint Law 2025: A Complete Guide to Legal Tinting
Window tinting is a popular upgrade and a smart way to cool your car, reduce glare, and get more privacy, especially under the bright Las Vegas sun.
It helps block heat, protects the interior, and gives drivers more privacy. But Nevada has strict laws about how dark your tint can be, and Las Vegas police can enforce these rules strictly.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- What the Nevada tint laws are
- How do those laws apply in Las Vegas
- What’s the legal tint for each window
- Medical exemptions for window tint in Nevada
- What happens if you break the law
- Tips for staying compliant
Whether you're a resident or just visiting Las Vegas, this guide will help you understand Nevada tint law to avoid fines and drive legally.
What Are Window Tint Laws and Why Do They Exist?
Every state has its different rules, and in Nevada, the laws are clearly outlined in Nevada's legal code (NRS 484D.440). These laws by de facto also apply to Las Vegas residents.
Window tint laws control how dark or reflective your car windows can be.
These laws are in place for a few reasons:
- To make sure drivers can see clearly at night
- To help police officers see inside vehicles during stops
- To reduce accidents caused by poor visibility
Nevada Tint Law: Legal Limits for Each Window
Nevada first introduced its car window tint laws in 1993 and has updated them over the years.
While the current regulations generally accommodate most modern window film products, it’s important to know that Nevada tint laws can change periodically.
Here’s a breakdown of what is and isn’t allowed on your vehicle in Nevada, including updated guidelines for 2025.
1. Windshield Tint
Nevada windshield tint laws require non-reflective tint on the windshield to prevent glare that could distract oncoming drivers.
At the same time, a properly placed tint strip helps protect you from harsh sunlight during early morning and late afternoon commutes, when the sun is often at its most blinding angles.
In short, here are the rules for tinting your windshield:
- No full windshield tint is allowed unless you have a medical exemption.
- Tinting is only allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield or above the AS-1 line (the manufacturer’s mark).
- Tint must be non-reflective.
- The rest of the windshield must be clear.
2. Front Side Windows
The front side windows, next to the driver and front passenger, must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through (35% visible light transmission).
This level of tint provides enough privacy to reduce visibility into the vehicle while still allowing law enforcement to clearly see the outline of the driver and passenger, which is important for safety during traffic stops.
Rule for front and side window tinting:
- Must allow 35% or more of visible light to pass through.
- Reflective or mirror-like tint must not be more than 35% reflective
3. Rear Side Windows and Back Window
Rear side windows and the rear window (also known as the rear windshield) can be tinted to any level of darkness.
This includes a full blackout tint (5% VLT), similar to what you might see on limousines or professional delivery vehicles.
The general rules are as follows:
- Any level of darkness is allowed.
- The tint must not be more than 35% reflective
- SUVs and trucks have the same rules as sedans for these windows.
4. Reflective Tint Laws
Unlike many other states where reflective window tint is heavily restricted or banned, Nevada law currently allows the use of mirrored or metallic tint. BUT reflectivity is limited.
The tint cannot be more than 35% reflective.
This means that while mirrored or metallic tints are permitted, they cannot exceed this reflectivity limit.
Right now, only two tint shades are banned in Nevada: red and amber. All other shades, including silver, gold, and metallic shades, are allowed under current state law.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Nevada
Nevada allows medical exemptions to some people who need darker window tints for medical conditions like:
- Light sensitivity
- Lupus
- Melanoma or other skin conditions
To qualify:
- You must get a doctor’s note.
- Fill out the form for "Application for window tint exemption."
- Submit it to the Nevada DMV.
- If approved, you’ll receive a waiver that allows a darker-than-legal tint.
Fines and Penalties for Illegal Tint in Nevada
If your window tint doesn’t meet state law, you could get a “fix-it” ticket, and you’ll need to remove the illegal tint and prove that you actually fixed it.
If you get pulled over for having illegal window tint and it’s your first time, the fine is usually around $100.
That’s just the starting point; once you add court fees, tint removal, and other costs, you could end up paying $500 or more.
Repeat violations may lead to higher fines or even registration issues.
Special Focus: Las Vegas Tint Law
Las Vegas follows the same window tint laws as the rest of Nevada, but there are some key things to know.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) is more likely to stop drivers for dark window tints in busy areas, especially tourist hotspots like The Strip, near casinos, event venues, and major intersections.
If pulled over for tint, officers often carry VLT meters to measure how much light passes through your windows on the spot, which means a simple traffic stop could turn into a tint violation if your windows are too dark.
However, the good news is that many parts of the city allow a small margin of error.
A maximum of 7% VLT tint variance is generally accepted, so if your front windows test slightly darker than the legal 35%, for example, around 28%, you may just get a warning instead of a ticket.
Tips to Stay Compliant with Nevada Tint Law
- Use a legal tint that’s lighter than the limit if you’re unsure
- Use a reputable tint shop that knows Nevada’s laws, and ask your tint installer for a compliance certificate
- Avoid using aftermarket tint from online shops that don’t meet Nevada specs.
- Always ask for a VLT reading after installation.
- Keep your medical exemption documentation in your glovebox if you have one.
FAQ's: Tint Laws in Nevada
Is a 20% tint legal on the front windows?
No. The front side windows must be 35% VLT or higher.
Can I tint my entire windshield?
No. Only the top 6 inches of the AS-1 line can be tinted, or a clear UV tint may be applied.
Can I get pulled over just for having tint in Las Vegas?
Yes, Las Vegas police officers and other city officers may pull you over for a darker tint that exceeds the state laws.
Do these laws apply to out-of-state vehicles?
Yes, if you’re driving in Nevada, your car should meet Nevada laws, even if it’s registered elsewhere. Most of the time, the police officers will be understanding if you’re just passing through or visiting, but they can still write you a citation.
Is reflective tint legal in Nevada?
Reflective tint is legal in Nevada, but it cannot be more than 35% reflective.
Can I get a medical exemption for a darker tint in Nevada?
Yes, Nevada law allows for medical exemptions. You'll need to apply through the DMV and provide documentation from a licensed physician.
Are Las Vegas tint laws different from the rest of Nevada?
No, tint laws in Las Vegas are the same as the statewide Nevada tint laws.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're driving through Las Vegas or living anywhere else in Nevada, following window tint laws will save you time, money, and legal trouble.
Always check your tint level, avoid reflective films, and when in doubt, ask your car window tint service provider or consult official sources.
Want to stay cool and legal? Know the law before you tint.
