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Let’s face it, window tint looks sleek, keeps the car cool, and adds privacy, but Michigan doesn’t just let you go as dark as you want. If you live in the Great Lakes State or even just drive through, knowing Michigan’s window tinting laws is absolutely crucial. That’s where this guide comes in. At TintedAF, we’ve seen countless customers come in confused about what’s allowed and what can land them a costly ticket.
This article covers everything you need to know, from what percentage of light your windows must let in to which exceptions exist and how to avoid any legal trouble. So buckle in, and let’s break it all down, one layer at a time.
Why Michigan Has Window Tinting Laws
Window tint laws might seem like a buzzkill, but they’re not just made to limit your style. These rules exist primarily for road safety. When drivers tint their windows too darkly, it becomes difficult for law enforcement to see inside during traffic stops, which poses safety concerns. It also impacts visibility at night, not just for the driver, but for pedestrians and other motorists on the road.
In addition, extremely dark tint can obstruct your own view of your surroundings, which increases the risk of accidents. To prevent this, Michigan lawmakers have enforced tinting standards that strike a balance between privacy, comfort, and visibility. That’s why it’s essential to stay within the limits if you want to enjoy tinted windows without the legal consequences.
Understanding VLT: What It Means and Why It Matters
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission, a critical term in the world of tinting. It refers to the percentage of visible light that can pass through your window film and glass. The higher the VLT, the lighter the tint. Conversely, a lower VLT means a darker tint.
For example, a 70% VLT tint allows 70% of light to pass through, meaning it’s very light. A 35% VLT tint blocks 65% of light, making it much darker. In Michigan, this percentage is key because legal limits are based on VLT. At TintedAF, we always check your film’s VLT rating before installation to ensure it meets state law—no guesswork involved.
Michigan Windshield Tint Laws: Keep It Above the 4-Inch Line
When it comes to the windshield, Michigan is very specific. You’re only allowed to tint the top 4 inches of the windshield. This is commonly called the “eyebrow strip” or “sun strip.” It helps block blinding sunlight, especially during sunrise or sunset when the sun is low and right in your eyes.
However, you cannot tint below that 4-inch mark, no matter how light the tint is. Why? Because full windshield tinting could drastically reduce night-time visibility and pose a risk to other drivers and pedestrians. If your eyebrow strip dips below the limit, you may get pulled over and asked to remove it, or worse, get fined.
Front Side Window Tinting Rules in Michigan
The law is very clear when it comes to front side windows in Michigan. Your driver’s side and front passenger windows must have a minimum of 35% VLT. That means they must let in at least 35% of visible light. Any tint darker than that is considered illegal on the front side.
This standard strikes a balance between functionality and safety. A 35% tint offers effective heat rejection and UV protection while still allowing law enforcement and other drivers to see into the vehicle. At TintedAF, we calibrate your tint with professional meters to ensure full compliance with this requirement.
Rear Window Tinting: More Freedom, But With Conditions
Unlike the front windows, Michigan is more relaxed about the rear side windows and rear windshield. You’re allowed to apply any level of tint on these areas—even down to 5% (also known as limo tint). But here’s the catch: your vehicle must be equipped with dual side mirrors.
This rule ensures that even if your back windows are completely blacked out, you still maintain adequate rear visibility through your mirrors. If your car only has one mirror, going full blackout on the rear could be deemed illegal and result in a citation.
Factory Tint vs Aftermarket Tint: Know the Difference
A common misunderstanding we hear at TintedAF is people confusing factory tint with aftermarket tint. Factory tint is applied by the manufacturer and is usually embedded within the glass itself, typically offering a light tint around 70–80% VLT. While it may appear tinted, it often lacks significant heat or UV rejection.
Aftermarket tint, on the other hand, is a film applied directly to the window surface. It offers more variety in VLT percentages and provides added benefits like glare reduction, UV protection, and heat insulation. The key takeaway? If you’re stacking aftermarket film on top of factory tint, you must still meet the legal VLT limit.
Medical Exemptions in Michigan: Who Qualifies?
Michigan allows medical exemptions for individuals with certain health conditions that require them to avoid sunlight or intense light exposure. This includes conditions such as lupus, albinism, melanoma, and other photosensitive disorders.
To qualify for a medical exemption, you must obtain a certificate signed by a licensed physician. This certificate must then be approved and filed with the Secretary of State. Once approved, you’re permitted to have a darker window tint than typically allowed by law, but only for the duration of the exemption. It’s important to carry this document in your vehicle at all times in case you are pulled over.
What Happens If You Break Michigan Tint Laws?
Ignoring Michigan tint laws can lead to several consequences. First and most common is a civil infraction ticket, which includes a fine and possibly points on your license. Police may issue a fix-it ticket, requiring you to remove the illegal tint and present the vehicle for reinspection.
Repeat violations can lead to escalated fines and potentially vehicle impoundment, especially if you continue to ignore the law. At TintedAF, we always encourage customers to stay compliant from day one to avoid unnecessary headaches, legal fees, or visits to the courthouse.
How Police Measure Tint on the Road
Law enforcement officers don’t guess whether your windows are too dark—they use a tint meter. This handheld device clamps onto your window and measures the VLT with high accuracy. If your front side windows fall below 35%, or if your windshield tint extends beyond 4 inches, you’re likely to get cited.
The good news? At TintedAF, we use the same tint meters in our shop. Every vehicle gets tested before it leaves, so you can feel confident that you’re driving away with legal, safe, and stylish tint.
Can You Get Pulled Over Just for Tint?
Yes, absolutely. Even if you’re driving perfectly and following all other traffic laws, a law enforcement officer can legally pull you over solely for suspected illegal tint. This often happens during daylight when the officer can easily spot an overly dark window, especially on the front side or windshield.
Once pulled over, they’ll test your windows using a tint meter. If you’re over the limit, they may issue a citation or a fix-it ticket on the spot. The best way to avoid this situation altogether? Get your tint done at a certified, professional shop like TintedAF that knows the rules inside and out.
Tinting and the Winter Months: Visibility is Critical
Michigan winters are no joke. With shorter days, overcast skies, and snowy roads, visibility becomes even more crucial. Dark window tint, especially those that are borderline or over the legal limit, can severely impact your ability to see pedestrians, vehicles, and road signs in low-light conditions.
That’s why at TintedAF, we often recommend high-performance ceramic tint films for Michigan drivers. They provide excellent heat and UV rejection without darkening your windows beyond legal limits, which is especially helpful during those gloomy winter commutes.
Why Choose TintedAF for Legal Tinting in Michigan
At TintedAF, we don’t just tint windows—we educate customers. From selecting the right VLT to handling installation with precision, we guide you every step of the way. We only use high-quality films, provide professional installation, and test every car with a tint meter before handing back the keys.
With two convenient locations in Sterling Heights and Dearborn Heights, we proudly serve Metro Detroit with top-tier service and unmatched expertise. Whether you’re looking for heat control, privacy, or a sleek upgrade, we’ll help you get the look you want—legally.
Conclusion
Window tinting in Michigan isn’t just about looking cool—it’s about knowing the rules. From VLT percentages to medical exemptions, there are clear guidelines you have to follow. And while it might sound complicated, working with a shop like TintedAF makes it simple.
We handle everything from film selection to legal compliance, so you can enjoy your upgraded ride without second-guessing your choices. If you’re in the market for tint and want it done right, you know who to call.
FAQs About Window Tint Laws in Michigan
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Can I tint my entire windshield in Michigan?
No. Michigan law prohibits full windshield tinting. You can only apply a non-reflective tint strip to the top 4 inches of the windshield. This strip is designed to reduce glare from the sun and improve driving comfort. Tinting beyond that area is considered illegal and may result in a fine or a fix-it ticket.
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Is 20% tint legal on front side windows?
No, it’s not. Michigan requires at least 35% VLT on front side windows, meaning 20% tint would be too dark. Using 20% tint on front windows could lead to a citation or being forced to remove it. That level of darkness is only acceptable for rear windows and back windshields, and only if the vehicle has dual mirrors.
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Can I get a medical exemption for a darker tint?
Yes. If you suffer from conditions like lupus, photosensitivity, or melanoma, you may qualify for a medical exemption. You’ll need to get documentation from a medical professional and file it with the Michigan Secretary of State. This exemption allows you to have a darker tint legally, but you must carry the paperwork with you in case of a traffic stop.
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How do I know if my tint is legal?
The easiest way is to have your tint professionally tested using a VLT meter. At TintedAF, we use the same kind of devices law enforcement uses. If your tint falls within the legal limits (35% VLT for front windows, 4-inch strip for windshield), then you’re good to go.
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What’s the best type of legal tint for Michigan weather?
We recommend ceramic tint for Michigan drivers. It offers top-tier heat rejection, UV protection, and glare reduction without being too dark. A legal 35% ceramic tint on front windows, combined with a darker tint on rear windows, gives you the best balance of compliance and performance throughout all four seasons.
