2026 Update

Delaware Window Tint Laws — Complete Guide

Creator: Delaware Tint Exemption Editorial Team
Published: 2025-01-15

Everything you need to know about window tint regulations in Delaware. Current legal limits for every window, penalties for violations, and how medical exemptions work.

Updated April 2026 · Delaware Tint Exemption Editorial Team

Delaware Tint Limits at a Glance

VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of light that passes through the window. Lower VLT means darker tint.

Window	Sedan	SUV / Van / Truck
Front Windshield	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line	Non-reflective tint allowed above AS-1 line
Front Side Windows	70% VLT VLT	70% VLT VLT
Back Side Windows	Any darkness VLT	Any darkness
Rear Window	Any darkness VLT	Any darkness
Max Reflectivity	No metallic or mirrored finish	No metallic or mirrored finish

Understanding VLT Percentages

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission— it measures what percentage of light passes through your window tint. Here's what common VLT levels look like:

70% VLTVery light — barely noticeable

50% VLTLight tint — mild sun reduction

35% VLTMedium — noticeable but can still see inside

20% VLTDark — difficult to see inside from outside

5% (limo) VLTVery dark — nearly impossible to see inside

Penalties for Illegal Tint in Delaware

Driving with illegal tint can be costly

First offense: $57.50 fine
Repeat offenses: $57.50–$115 fine
Additional: You may be required to remove the tint and show proof of removal

The easiest way to avoid these penalties while still getting the window tint you need is to obtain a medical exemption. With a valid exemption, your darker tint is completely legal.

Restricted Tint Colors

Delaware law restricts certain tint colors: Red, yellow, and amber not permitted. These colors are prohibited regardless of whether you have a medical exemption.

Medical Exemptions to Delaware Tint Laws

Delaware law allows individuals with qualifying medical conditions to apply for a tint exemption that permits darker window tint than the standard limits. This is authorized under Delaware Code Title 21, §4313.

Must be certified by a licensed physician

Covers conditions causing light sensitivity or UV vulnerability

Exemption documentation must be kept in the vehicle

A compliance sticker may be required on the vehicle

Common Questions About Delaware Tint Laws

Is tint a primary offense in Delaware?

In Delaware, a tint violation can be a primary reason for a traffic stop. This means an officer can pull you over solely for having window tint that appears too dark.

Can I tint my front windshield in Delaware?

Delaware allows non-reflective tint allowed above as-1 line. Full windshield tint is not permitted even with a medical exemption in most cases.

Do SUVs have different tint rules?

Yes. In Delaware, multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, trucks) can have any darkness on rear side windows and the rear window, while sedans must meet minimum VLT requirements.

How do police test window tint?

Law enforcement uses a tint meter (also called a photometer) to measure the VLT of your windows during a traffic stop or inspection. The device measures the percentage of light passing through.

Want Darker Tint? Get a Medical Exemption

If the standard Delawaretint limits aren't dark enough for your medical needs, apply for a tint exemption today.