Question: Does anybody else think it’s kind of creepy when drivers have their windows all blacked out? I’m not sure why it bugs me so much, but it is nice to be able to see the actual human being that’s driving the car next to you. Are there laws about blacking out windows that establish how well you have to be able to see in or out? — Helene, Parkland
Answer: Yes, there is a law. RCW 46.37.430 spells out in detail the rules for tinted auto glass in Washington.
In a nutshell:
• The maximum level of material that can be applied to any window, except the windshield, must allow at least 24 percent of total visible light to pass through the glass.
If a window is tinted by a professional, they must certify it meets the standards. If you’re ordering a do-it-yourself kit, make sure it conforms to standards.
• Prohibited tinting includes “mirror finish products,” “red, yellow, gold or black material” and “brushed- or sprayed-on material.”
• No tinting is allowed on windshields, except for the top 6 inches (that area can have a greater degree of light reduction than side windows).
• Hearses, collector vehicles, limousines, emergency vehicles and certain RVs and trucks can have darker tint to the rear of the driver if the vehicle is equipped with mirrors on both right and left sides.
Rob Carson: 253-597-8693
rob.carson@thenewstribune.com
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