michigan Tint Laws
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michigan Tint Laws
Michigan’s window tint laws for cars have only been in place since the year 2000, making the state a relative latecomer when it comes to passing state window tint laws. That said, by the year 2000 window film technology was already well into advanced development stages, so the rules created then have required less updating than in states like, for example, Massachusetts, where window tint rules were established in 1985.
The car window tint laws in Michigan are in many ways simple than those in other states, as all front side windows and rear side and rear windows are subject to the same rules regardless of vehicle type, whereas in other states tint laws are different based on vehicle type – SUV, truck, van, or car, e.g. On the other hand, there are a few very specific caveats to Michigan state window tint laws that are not found in other places. While Michigan tint laws are generally permissive, illegal window tint can be treated as a primary offense, meaning you can be pulled over and ticketed for the window tint alone, while in other states tint violations are only assessed as secondary offenses.
In many cases, a window tint traffic stop in Michigan will lead only to a so-called “fix it ticket,” where you have a period of time to rectify the illegal tint and then prove you have done so, after which you may pay only $25 in processing fees (this is not to mention the expense of replacing window tint) but it is at the discretion of police officers to issue larger penalties, so don’t risk getting stopped for illegal window tint that is clear as day to see and that can be tested on the scene in real time, no less.
Please note: The accuracy, completeness, adequacy or currency of the content is not warranted or guaranteed. We are not lawyers or a law firm and we do not provide legal advice. We recommend you consult a lawyer or other appropriate professional if you want legal advice.
CLICK ON INDICATORS TO VIEW TINT LAWS FOR SPECIFIC WINDOWS
laws for suvs, trucks, & vans
Front Windows
All Vehicles
Any darkness can be applied but only on top 4 inches of the window.
Rear Passenger Windows
Includes rear window and rear passenger
Any shade of tint can be used for trucks, SUVs, and vans ONLY
Rear Window
Includes rear window and rear passenger windows
Any shade of tint can be used for trucks, SUVs, and vans ONLY
Windshield Visor
ALL VEHICLE TYPES
Any (non-reflective) shade of tint can be used 4" from the top of the windshield. This is the line extending from the letters AS-1, found on most motor vehicle windshields, running parallel to the top of the windshield.
laws for sedans & coupes
Front Windows
ALL VEHICLE TYPES
Includes Trucks, SUVs, Vans, Sedans, Coupes, & Hatchbacks
Any darkness can be applied but only on top 4 inches of the window.
Rear Passenger Windows
for Sedans, Coupes, & Hatchbacks
Any shade of tint can be used for the rear window.
Rear Window
for Sedans, Coupes, & Hatchbacks
Any shade of tint can be used for the rear window.
Windshield Visor
ALL VEHICLE TYPES
Any (non-reflective) shade of tint can be used 4" from the top of the windshield. This is the line extending from the letters AS-1, found on most motor vehicle windshields, running parallel to the top of the windshield.
% of Tint or Visible light transmission (VLT) is the measurement used to assess the amount of light passing through a piece of glass. This is the percent of visible light that passes through the film and glass to give you a net transmission percentage. The lower the VLT%, the darker the window.
Law Enforcement uses a tint meter which measures the Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) of window film and glass for illegal tint.
Windshield: Several states allow medical exemptions for drivers or passengers who frequently travel in the vehicle. These exemptions usually require a licensed physician in that state to sign a waiver. Please visit your states .gov site for details.
AS-1 Line: This is the line extending from the letters AS-1, found on most motor vehicle windshields, running parallel to the top of the windshield.
Michigan Vehicle Code section 257.709: Windshields and windows; prohibitions.
Click above to download the Nationwide Medical Exemptions Window Tinting Directory.
If you’re driving a truck or SUV built in the last decade, chances are it’s equipped with factory tinted glass on all windows behind the front doors.
Many owners of vehicles like this often choose to only have the front windows tinted to match the back because they believe that they are already set with the rear windows.
UV Protection
While this factory tint improves the looks of the vehicle, and offers rear passengers some privacy, it does very little to help reduce the heat entering through the glass or protect them from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Heat Rejection
The same also goes for heat rejection. Some assume that the level of heat rejection they will on the front glass is already present in the rear glass because of the factory tint. Nothing can be further from the truth. Other than having the tinted look, these windows do very little to stop the heat.
To find out what options you have to protecting your passengers and vehicles interior, click here.