Comprehensive Guide to Illinois Window Tinting Laws
Understanding the window tinting regulations in Illinois is essential to ensure compliance and avoid fines.
Enacted in 2009, Illinois’s car window tinting laws specify the permissible darkness and reflectiveness of window films for vehicles.
In this guide, you’ll find all the details about Illinois’s window tinting laws, including the rules for sedans, SUVs, and vans, along with additional regulations and tips.
Window Tint Darkness in Illinois
The amount of light that passes through your car windows is measured as VLT (Visible Light Transmission). Illinois’s VLT requirements differ based on vehicle type (sedans vs. SUVs/vans).
Tint Darkness Requirements for Sedans
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
Tint Darkness Requirements for SUVs and Vans
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness level is permitted.
- Rear Window: Any darkness level is permitted.
Notes:
Illinois window tint laws are more nuanced compared to many other states:
- Option 1: You can apply 35% VLT on all windows (excluding the windshield).
- Option 2: Any tint level is allowed on windows behind the driver, but only if the front side windows are not tinted.
- Option 3: Front side windows may have 50% VLT, but only if no window behind the driver has a tint below 30% VLT.
- Factory Tint Rule: For vehicles with factory-installed tint of any darkness on rear windows, front side windows must have over 50% VLT.
Window Tint Reflectiveness in Illinois
Reflective window tint helps reduce glare and heat but must comply with Illinois’s regulations.
Tint Reflectiveness for Sedans
- Front Side Windows: Must be non-reflective; however, state law does not provide specific guidelines on what this means.
- Back Side Windows: Must be non-reflective.
Tint Reflectiveness for SUVs and Vans
- Front Side Windows: Must be non-reflective; however, state law does not provide specific guidelines on what this means.
- Back Side Windows: Must be non-reflective.
Additional Illinois Window Tint Regulations
Illinois law includes several other rules that drivers need to follow:
- Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are mandatory if the rear window is tinted.
- Restricted Colors: No specific window tint colors are explicitly banned by Illinois tint laws.
- Tint Variance: 5% variance.
- Film Certification: Film manufacturers are not obligated to certify the film they sell in Illinois.
- Stickers: No sticker identifying legal tint is required.
- Medical Exemptions: Illinois permits medical exemptions for special tinting. For detailed information on the specific terms of the exemption, refer to state law.
- Penalties: A petty offense is punishable by a fine of $50 to $500. For second or subsequent violations, it is classified as a class C misdemeanor with a fine of $100 to $500.
Tips for Compliance
- Illinois’s tinting laws may vary slightly by county. Always confirm with your local DMV or law enforcement agency to avoid misunderstandings.
- Ensure your window tint installation meets both the state requirements and manufacturer certifications.
By staying informed about Illinois’s window tinting regulations, you can enjoy enhanced comfort and privacy while adhering to the law.
For more details, consult local authorities or professional window tinting services.