Headlight & Taillight Tint in Washington
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in Washington. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements.
Verified against primary sources · August 2026
What the law says
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in Washington. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements. Beams must reveal persons and vehicles at 450 feet on high beam and 150 feet on low; taillamps must show red plainly visible at 1,000 feet.
Specific Limits
- Film permitted
- No
- Headlight color
- white
- Taillight color
- red
Exceptions & Exemptions
Headlight covers or tinting that reduces light output or changes color from white/amber are prohibited
Frequently Asked Questions
Are headlight & taillight tint legal in Washington?
What are the exact headlight & taillight tint limits in Washington?
Are there exceptions for headlight & taillight tint in Washington?
Street-legal headlight & taillight tint picks
Gear that helps you mod without a ticket in Washington.
Clear, bright lenses — the fully legal alternative to tinting them.
Shop on AmazonProtects lenses without cutting light output like smoked film does.
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