Is auto tint on your car legal in Illinois? Illinois car tint law regulates what percentage of VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is legal on a particular type of window. At Detail With D, we provide information about the latest Illinois tint law to allow you to keep your privacy, control heat, and shield your car from UV rays without violating the law.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois window tinting laws in 2025 are strict VLT regulations: 35% on sedans, 50% front on SUVs/vans
- Reflective shades and mirror coatings are not allowed in any shape or form
- Medical waivers allow darker tint films with medical documentation
- Mixing factory and after-market tint can create illegal levels of VLT
- No sticker required, but VLT must adhere to legal tint limitations
What Does “VLT” Mean?
VLT means Visible Light Transmission and represents the percentage of light a tint film will allow to pass through. A 35% VLT, for instance, will allow 35% of light to pass through and is equivalent to regular sunglasses. Darker tints are lower percentages and offer more privacy. The VLT percentage needs to be legal according to local tint laws to offer UV protection, glare reduction, and heat control while being compliant.
Legal Tint Limits By Vehicle Type
Legal tint in Illinois sets specific VLT limits for each vehicle type as follows:
- For regular passenger cars (Sedans):
- Windshield: Only the uppermost 6 inches can be tinted, and it must be non-reflective.
- Front Side Windows: Must let in at least 35% of visible light.
- Back Side Windows: Must let in at least 35% of visible light.
- Rear Window: Must let in at least 35% of visible light.
- For multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, Trucks, Vans):
- Windshield: Tint allowed on the top 6 inches only; must be non-reflective.
- Front Side Windows: Must let in more than 50% of light.
- Back Side & Rear Windows: Any tint darkness is acceptable.
Can You Combine Factory And Aftermarket Tint?
Yes, but watch out. Mixing OEM window film with aftermarket window film drives the VLT below legal levels. Illinois tint law adds up the total darkness of all window films that are installed. Layering thus creates unregulated VLT, leading to non-compliance with local tint laws. Choose a quality window film that suits your needs and budget to achieve a balance of privacy, insulation, and car improvement without running afoul of the law.
Are Mirror Or Reflective Tints Legal In Illinois?
No, reflective and retroreflective films are not allowed in Illinois. These films have a metallic coating that reflects light and heat, but they create excessive glare that can be a safety hazard to other drivers. Many drivers install them because they think reflective films have better heat control or are aesthetically pleasing, but they violate state regulations. Instead, choose non-reflective ceramic films to reduce glare and comply with the law.
What’s The Deal With Medical Exemptions?
Some Illinois residents may be able to apply for a medical exemption. The exemption permits darker shaded films for those conditions needing additional UV protection or reduced light sensitivity. Medical exemptions are approved and certified by the state. Detail With D helps customers in securing exemptions.
How Much Trouble Can Illegal Tint Cause?
Illegal tinted windows can lead to traffic stops, citations, insurance penalties, and inspection failure. A common mistake is exceeding the legal VLT with privacy film or tinted blinds. Tickets may be issued by police if the tint seems darker than what is allowed. Check your car tint today! Contact Detail With D to have our professionals inspect and apply window tint that meets Illinois tint laws.
FAQs
What is the darkest legal tint in Illinois?
Sedans: 35% VLT on all windows. SUVs/vans: 50% VLT front, any VLT rear. Legal tint film should adhere to these limitations.
Will I get pulled over for a 20% tint in Illinois?
Yes. 20% tint is below the legal limit. Roadside visibility checks can pull over vehicles, and enforcement officers do have that power.
Should I go with 35% or a 20% tint?
Select 35% VLT to comply with the law. A 20% privacy tint is darker in color but can attract tickets. Ceramic window film is a legal option with heat rejection and visibility.
Is a 5% tint legal in Illinois for vehicles?
No. 5% tint, or limo tint, is legal only on rear windows of multi-purpose vehicles. The fronts of SUVs and sedans cannot be treated with it.
Do I need a sticker to prove that my tint is legal in Illinois?
No sticker is necessary. But make sure VLT levels of your window tint are below the legal limit. Apply a certified UV film to be safe and citation-free.
