How Dark Can Your Car Windows Legally Be in Washington?

One of the first things I did when I bought my car over ten years ago was to get the windows tinted—to me, having tinted windows is sort of like wearing sunglasses. There's a silly amount of security you can feel inside yourself when you wear sunglasses.

The world of driving is an interesting one. People get mad at you for driving too slowly, driving too quickly, and even for driving the speed limit. Then when they pass you, they turn their heads to mean-mug you as if you were the worst person on the planet. Having the tinted windows means they don't get the satisfaction of seeing my face or my reaction. But how much tint is too much in Washington?

What's the legal limit for window tint in Washington?

I found a guide that helps explain what percentages mean in regard to tinting your windows. To break it down, according to Accutint in Bellevue, cars rolling out of the factory let in 70% of all light through their windows. That's a lot less than I would have thought. 100% would be like the window not even being there, letting all the light in. In Washington, your rear and side windows can go all the way down to 24%. Any more than that and you could get a ticket.