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Windshield Tinting

Oregon regulates the amount of window tinting a motor vehicle can have. 

Stay in compliance with the law by reviewing these frequently asked questions below.


Tinted Windshields
Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are dark tinted windows a safety concern?​

A: Dark tinted windows make it very difficult for law enforcement to view the inside of cars during traffic stops. Unlawful motorists may try to conceal weapons behind the tinted glass, putting police officers at grave risk.

Q: Can I tint the windows of my car to reduce glare from the sun? (and it looks cool!)

A: Oregon has window tint laws. The total light transmittance through the window with the tint installed must be 35% or more. Any motorist who operates a vehicle that does not comply with Oregon’s window tint law may be subject to a $360 fine.​

​Q: I recently moved to Oregon from another state that allowed darker window tint. Do I have to remove it?

A: Cars purchased out of state and then brought into Oregon are subject to Oregon law. Tinting requirements in some neighboring states may be less strict that Oregon’s. 

If you don’t know what the light transmittance is, take the car to an installer and ask them to put a meter on it. If it’s darker than allowed you need to remove it.


Q: Do I need to get something from the tint installer?

A: Yes, tint installers are required to give customers a certificate stating the tint light transmittance and reflectance, along with what the total light transmittance through the window is. You must present the certificate to law enforcement upon request. Some installers use a certificate sticker that they apply to the door jamb.


​Q: My doctor says I need to avoid the sun. Can I add dark window tint because of a medical condition?

A: You may get your physician or optometrist to provide you with a prescription, letter on practitioner’s letterhead, or affidavit stating that there is a physical condition that requires you to have windows tinted darker than Oregon law allows. An affidavit is generally considered to be a legal document that must be notarized. Either the prescription, letter or affidavit and the tint installers certificate must be carried in the vehicle at all times and provided to law enforcement upon request. DMV does not issue permits for darker window tint.

Q: If I have a pickup or SUV can I darken the back windows?

A: Under Oregon law, a “Multipurpose passenger vehicle” may have darker tint than required above as long as the tint is installed behind the driver. 

Oregon defines a multipurpose passenger vehicle as “a motor vehicle that is designed to carry 10 or fewer persons, and is constructed either on a truck chassis or with special features for occasional off-road operation.” Pickups and SUVs fall under this definition. These vehicles must be equipped with outside rearview mirrors.