Tint Laws in Illinois: Understanding the Regulations and Penalties
Discover the legal tints Illinois
Window tinting is a popular modification for vehicles, offering privacy, protection from the sun’s harmful rays, and a sleek appearance. However, it’s important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding window tinting in your state to avoid any legal issues.
In Illinois, there are specific guidelines and restrictions that must be followed to ensure compliance with the law. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of tint laws in Illinois, including VLT (Visible Light Transmission) requirements, reflection laws, medical exemptions, and penalties for violations.
What Does VLT Mean According to Illinois State Law?
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) refers to the amount of light that is allowed to pass through the window tint film. In Illinois, the law specifies the minimum VLT percentages for different types of vehicles. VLT is measured as a percentage, with higher percentages indicating more light transmission.
So, What is The Legal Tint in Illinois:
In Illinois, there are specific regulations for window tinting. These regulations are enforced to ensure that vehicles maintain a safe level of visibility for drivers and law enforcement officers.
Tint Laws for Passenger Cars and Station Wagons in Illinois
According to Illinois state law, the front side windows of passenger cars and station wagons must allow more than 35% of light to pass through. This means that the tint applied to these windows must have a VLT of 35% or higher. Here are the window tint laws for Illinois:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top portion of the windshield above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or top 6 inches, whichever is higher.
- Front Side Windows: Tint must allow a minimum of 35% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Tint can have any darkness.
- Rear Window: Tint can have any darkness.
Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in Illinois
For multi-purpose passenger vehicles (MPVs) and recreational vehicles (RVs), the front side windows must also allow more than 35% of light to pass through. The tint laws for MPVs and RVs are as follows:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
- Rear Window: Tint must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
Note: These laws apply to the tinted film or material applied to the windows, and not the factory-installed tint that may already be present on some vehicles. Violating the tint laws in Illinois can result in a fine and the requirement to remove the tinted film or material from the windows.
We recommended checking with local law enforcement or the Illinois Secretary of State’s office for the most up-to-date information on tint laws for MPVs and RVs.
Window Tint Reflection in Illinois - IL Window Tint Law 2023
When applying window tint to your vehicle in Illinois, it’s important to understand the tint reflection regulations. Tinted windows can help reduce glare and heat, but there are specific guidelines on the permissible levels of window reflection. Here are the tint reflection rules for both sedans and SUVs/Vans in Illinois as of 2023:
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front-side windows: Illinois allows up to 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows of sedans.
Backside windows: Similar to the front-side windows, you can use up to 35% reflective tint on the back-side windows of sedans.
Tint Reflection for SUV and Vans
- Front-side windows: For SUVs and Vans in Illinois, you are allowed up to 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows.
Backside windows: Similarly, you can use up to 35% reflective tint on the backside windows of SUVs and Vans.
Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of Illinois You Need to Know
In addition to the VLT and reflection laws, there are a few other regulations regarding window tint in Illinois. These include:
- Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required for vehicles with tinted rear windows.
- Stickers: Avoid obstructing the driver’s view through windows with stickers, especially on the front windshield or front side windows.
- Restricted Colors: There are no specific restrictions on tint colors in Illinois.
- Certificates: Vehicle window tint must meet specific darkness and light transmittance standards, and a compliance certificate may be issued after evaluation.
- Penalties: Non-compliance with Illinois’ window tint laws can result in fines and potential imprisonment. The severity of penalties may vary based on the violation. Typically, a first offense is considered a petty offense, which may result in a fine of up to $500. Subsequent offenses can lead to higher fines and potential license suspension.
- Medical Exemptions: The Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allows for medical exemptions to the state’s window tint laws. To qualify for a medical exemption, you must provide documentation from a licensed physician verifying that you have a medical condition that necessitates the use of window tinting.
In Hawaii, there are additional window tint laws and regulations that you should be aware of. These regulations pertain to side mirrors, restricted colors, and enforcement. Here are the details:
Tint Laws in Illinois- FAQ’s
Is 5% tint legal in Illinois?
No, 5% tint is not legal in Illinois. The front side windows of passenger cars and station wagons must allow more than 35% of light to pass through.
Is 20% tint legal in Illinois?
No, 20% tint is not legal for the front side windows of passenger cars and station wagons in Illinois. The minimum VLT requirement is 35%.
Is 35% tint legal in Illinois?
Yes, 35% tint is legal for the front side windows of passenger cars and station wagons in Illinois.
Is 50% tint legal in Illinois?
Yes, 50% tint is legal for the front side windows of passenger cars and station wagons in Illinois.
Is 75% tint legal in Illinois?
Yes, 75% tint is legal for the front side windows of passenger cars and station wagons in Illinois.
What is the legal window tint in Illinois?
The legal window tint in Illinois for the front side windows of passenger cars and station wagons is 35% or higher.
What is the darkest legal tint in Illinois?
There is no restriction on the darkness of the rear side windows and the rear window in Illinois.
How much is a tint ticket in Illinois?
The fines for window tint violations in Illinois can vary, but a first offense can result in a fine of up to $500.
Most Important Information about Car Window Tinting
Final Words
Understanding the tint laws in Illinois is crucial to avoid legal consequences. It is recommended to consult the specific regulations and seek professional advice before applying window tint to your vehicle. Compliance with the law ensures the safety of both drivers and passengers while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of tinted windows.
It’s advisable to consult the Illinois Vehicle Code or contact the Illinois Secretary of State’s office or local law enforcement for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding window tint laws in Illinois.