Is 15% Window Tint Legal in Mexico After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

Yes, 15% window tint is legal in Mexico only if it complies with NOM-012-SCT-2-2026 standards, which mandate front-side windows allow ≥70% light transmittance. Rear windows may use darker tints, but enforcement varies by state and municipal ordinances.


Key Regulations for 15% Window Tint in Mexico

  • Federal Standard (NOM-012-SCT-2-2026): Front-side windows must transmit ≥70% visible light; 15% tint exceeds this limit, making it illegal unless certified as “safety film” under exception criteria.
  • State-Level Variations: States like Nuevo León and Jalisco enforce stricter checks, requiring tint measurement certificates during vehicle inspections; non-compliance risks fines or mandatory removal.
  • Rear Window Flexibility: Rear windows and rear windshields may legally use darker tints (including 15%), but reflective or mirrored films remain prohibited nationwide.

Enforcement prioritizes commercial vehicles and public transport, though private passenger cars face sporadic checks. The 2026 NOM update introduces digital verification systems for tint compliance, reducing ambiguity. Always verify local municipal rules, as some cities (e.g., Mexico City) impose additional restrictions.