Illinois Tint Laws
The Illinois tint laws detail specific automotive tint laws for various cars and SUVs. Car window tinting laws in Illinois were officially implemented in 2009. We strive to provide you with an in-depth understanding of these regulations, encompassing critical aspects such as permissible tint darkness, reflection standards, and additional rules that pertain to window tinting in the state.
Disclaimer
Even though I aced Commercial Law at school and strive to provide accurate and informative content, it’s important to note that I am not a legal expert. The information presented in this blog is based on my interpretation of the subject matter, and laws can vary by location and change over time. It is strongly recommended that readers verify all sources of information and consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities before making any decisions related to tint laws.
Understanding the Terminology Regarding Tint Laws
The most important part of the legislation is understanding what VLT is and how law enforcement services check or test the percentage.
What is VLT
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, is a measure of the amount of visible light that can pass through a window tint or film. It is commonly used to determine the darkness or opacity of window tints, and it’s an important factor in window tinting laws and regulations.
VLT is typically expressed as a percentage. For example, a window tint with a VLT of 20% allows only 20% of visible light to pass through, making it relatively dark and less transparent. Conversely, a window tint with a VLT of 70% allows 70% of visible light to pass through and is much lighter and more transparent.
How do Law Enforcement services test the VLT percentage?
Window tinting laws vary by jurisdiction, and they often specify the maximum allowable VLT for different types of windows on a vehicle, such as the front windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window. These laws are designed to ensure that drivers have adequate visibility and that law enforcement can see into vehicles for safety and identification purposes. The manner that they go about testing the VLT is by using a VLT gauge/meter.
Here is a YouTube Short from @TrafficServices and @TorontoPolice showcasing the device and how it works. Even though it is in Canada, it still is helpful to understand how the tint darkness is measured.
Window Tint Darkness in Illinois:
The measure of visible light permitted through your vehicle’s windows is designated as VLT (Visible Light Transmission). Illinois’s laws outline precise VLT percentages for sedan cars and SUVs or vans.
Illinois Car Tint Laws 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 Laws For SUVs and Vans in Illinois:
- 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 level of darkness can be used.
- Rear Window: Any level of darkness can be used.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches | Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 6 inches |
| Front Side Windows | Must allow more than 35% of light transmission | Must allow more than 50% of light transmission |
| Back Side Windows | Must allow more than 35% of light transmission | Any level of darkness allowed |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 35% of light transmission | Any level of darkness allowed |
Illinois’s tint laws offer a nuanced approach, allowing specific combinations of VLT percentages based on the positioning of windows. For example:
- You can install 35% VLT on all windows (except the windshield).
- All windows behind the driver can legally have any tint percent, provided the front side windows are not tinted.
- Front side windows may have 50% light transmission, but only if no window behind the driver is tinted under 30% VLT.
- On vehicles with factory-installed window tint of any darkness on any back window, front side windows must have over 50% VLT.
| The Nuances of the Illinois Tint Laws | |
|---|---|
| 1. | You can install 35% VLT on all windows (except the windshield). |
| 2. | All windows behind the driver can legally have any tint percent, provided the front side windows are not tinted. |
| 3. | Front side windows may have 50% light transmission, but only if no window behind the driver is tinted under 30% VLT. |
| 4. | On vehicles with factory-installed window tint of any darkness on any back window, front side windows must have over 50% VLT. |
Window Tint Reflection in Illinois:
Window tinting can reflect incoming light, reducing glare and heat. Illinois’s tint law specifies permissible levels of window reflection when using tint, although the law is not explicit about what “non-reflective” means.
Tint Reflectivity Laws For both sedans and SUVs/vans:
- Front Side windows: Must be non-reflective.
- Back Side windows: Must be non-reflective.
Other Illinois Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In addition to tint darkness and reflection specifications, Illinois features several other significant regulations related to window tinting:
Side Mirrors
Dual side mirrors are required if the back window is tinted.
Restricted Colors
The law does not explicitly ban any specific tint colors.
Tint Variance
A 5% variance is allowed.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in the state.
Stickers
No sticker is required to identify legal tinting.
Medical Exceptions
Illinois allows medical exemptions for special tint, with specific terms found in state law.
Regulations for Out-of-State Drivers
The same regulations apply to out-of-state drivers as they do for drivers living in the State.
If you are from States such as Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Penalties
Violations of tinting laws are considered a petty offense, with fines ranging from $50 to $500. Second or subsequent violations escalate to a class C misdemeanor with fines of $100 to $500.
Interpretations of Illinois’s tinting laws and regulations may differ based on your county or place of residence. To ensure complete compliance, we strongly recommend verifying this information with your local DMV or law enforcement authorities.
Our information about window tint laws in Illinois was last updated in 2023. We take pride in being a trusted industry leader, dedicated to providing accurate and current information about window tint laws. If you discover any inaccuracies or outdated data, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your trust in our resources is of utmost importance, and we are committed to providing you with the most reliable information available.
FAQs
What is the darkest legal tint in Illinois?
In Illinois, the darkest legal tint is 35%, which means the tint on the windows must allow at least 35% of outside light to penetrate the vehicle’s windows.
How much is a tint ticket in Illinois?
The cost of a tint ticket can be variable in Illinois, typically ranging from $50 to $500 depending upon the extent of the violation and the discretion of the issuing officer.
Can you get pulled over for tint in Illinois?
Yes, in Illinois,-law enforcement officers can pull you over if they suspect your vehicle’s window tint violates state law.
What color tints are legal in Illinois?
Whilst I am in no way a fan of tints that come in different colors, the laws do not explicitly ban any colors of tint you may desire. By that, you may be free to put any color tints on your vehicle.
What tint is legal in Chicago?
The same tint laws that apply to the State of Illinois, are the same that apply to Chicago. By complying with the Illinois State laws you comply with the Chicago laws.
Do Illinois cops care about tint?
Well, yes! If your tinted windows aren’t compliant with the laws and legislation you are more than likely to be pulled over. There are a variety of different penalties and punishments for non-compliance.