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Navigating Illinois’ window tint laws can be tricky, especially when they vary depending on your vehicle type.
“Whether you drive a sedan or an SUV, understanding the state’s specific regulations is critical to avoiding fines and staying compliant. From Naperville to Oswego, drivers need to know how much tint is legally allowed on different windows,” said Tinter Steven Radja.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Illinois’ window tint laws, making it easier to stay on the right side of the law while enjoying the benefits of window tinting.
What is Visible Light Transmission (VLT)?
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) measures how much light can pass through your car’s windows. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the tint and the less light that gets through. This percentage is key to both style and function, as it impacts glare, heat rejection, and privacy.
Let’s take a look at VLT light percentages:
- Lower VLTs (5-20%) block most light, providing excellent privacy and heat rejection but reducing visibility. These are common for rear car windows.
- Mid-range VLTs (25-40%) offer a balance, cutting glare while maintaining reasonable visibility, making them ideal for side windows.
- High VLTs (50-70%) allow more light in, preserving natural brightness while offering some UV protection, often used for spaces where natural light is important, like sunrooms or offices.
Illinois Tint Laws Broken Down by Vehicle
Let’s take a look at window tint levels allowable based on vehicle type, based on tint laws in illinois.
- Windshield: Only non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches.
- Front side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light.
- Back side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light.
- Rear window: Must allow more than 35% of light.
For SUVs and vans:
- Windshield: Only non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches.
- Front side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light.
- Back side windows: Any darkness level is allowed.
- Rear window: Any darkness level is allowed.
Keep Your Car Stylish and Compliant
Stay protected and legal with tint that works for you.
Window Tint Reflection Limits
In Illinois, window tint can help reduce glare and heat, but it must comply with specific reflection limits.
For both sedans and SUVs/vans, front and back side windows are required to be non-reflective. While the law does not clearly define the exact level of reflectivity, it explicitly forbids any mirrored or metallic appearance in the tint.
This means that highly reflective or mirrored tints are off-limits, so it’s important to choose a film that meets state regulations while still offering the benefits of heat and glare reduction.
Additional Window Tint Laws in Illinois to Be Aware of
When it comes to window tinting in Illinois, there are a few additional rules to keep in mind.
Medical exemptions are available for individuals with conditions like porphyria or extreme photosensitivity, allowing for darker tinting than standard regulations permit.
If you tint your back window, you’re required to have dual side mirrors for safety.
While there are no specific bans on tint colors, a 5% variance is allowed for compliance.
Unlike some states, Illinois does not require manufacturers to certify the film, nor do you need a sticker to show your tint is legal.
How is Window Tint Measured?
Police officers use a device called a “tint meter” to measure window tint levels. The meter shines a light through the window and calculates how much light passes through, providing an immediate percentage reading of the tint’s darkness.
If officers suspect that a vehicle’s window tint is too dark or non-compliant, they can use this tool to ensure the tint meets state laws. It’s illegal in Illinois to install or repair tint that violates these regulations, and violations could result in fines or required removal of the tint.
Stay Compliant With Illinois Window Tint Laws With the Mobile Tinting
Stay compliant with Illinois’ tint laws while enhancing your car’s look, privacy, and protection. At Mobile Tinters, we offer expert tinting solutions tailored to your vehicle type and local regulations.
Our team brings top-notch service right to your door, ensuring a hassle-free experience with lasting results.
Ready to upgrade your ride? Contact Mobile Tinters today.
