How Dark Is Too Dark? An Overview of Illinois Window Tint Laws

Illinois Window Tint Laws by Vehicle Type

When we're talking about tint, we mean tint darkness. VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of visible light that's allowed through your windows. The legal percentage varies by state.



In Illinois, the tint requirements vary slightly depending on the type of vehicle you drive. Let's cover the laws for sedans, vans, and SUVs before diving into other types of tinting.

Sedans

The laws for tinting on sedans are as follows:

• Windshield - You can install non-reflective tint only on the top six inches of your vehicle windshield
• Front side windows - Can have 35% VLT
• Back side windows - Can have 35% VLT
• Rear Window - Can have 35% VLT



Remember, 35% VLT means it allows 35% of light into the vehicle.

Vans

These are the tint laws for vans:

• Windshield - You can use non-reflective tint only on the top six inches of the van windshield
• Front side windows - Can have 50% VLT
• Back side windows - Any level of tint allowed
• Rear Window - Any level of tint allowed



Again, 50% VLT lets 50% of light into the vehicle. As you can see, there's quite a difference between sedans and vans, so make sure you're following the law.

SUVs

SUVs have the same rules as vans. To clarify:

• Windshield - Non-reflective tint is allowable only on the top six inches of the windshield
• Front side windows - Can have 50% VLT
• Back side windows - Any level of tint allowed
• Rear Window - Any level of tint allowed



Once you understand the laws regarding visible light transmission, you can look into the type of tint that's right for you.

Tint Reflection

First off, what is tint reflection? Like it sounds, tint reflection is a type of window tint with a metallic or reflective quality. Each state varies a little on whether it allows reflective tints or not and how much you can use.



In Illinois, you can only use a non-reflective tint. Make sure you keep this in mind when you plan on getting your car windows tinted.

Additional Tint Laws

There are a few other laws you have to understand before you start shopping for window tints.

If you do tint your back window, you must have dual side mirrors. There is a tint variance of 5% allowed in Illinois.



There are no tint colors banned by Illinois law. Also, in Illinois, manufacturers do not need to certify their film, and stickers identifying legal tint percentages aren't required.

Medical Exceptions

There are certain medical exemptions for having a special type of tint. Cases include people with porphyria, severe drug photosensitivity, or xeroderma pigmentosa.

Porphyria

Cutaneous porphyrias is a form of porphyria. Those with this disease experience skin symptoms such as burning pain or redness as a result of exposure to the sun.

Xeroderma Pigmentosum

This inherited condition affects the eyes and skin of those who have it. People with xeroderma pigmentosum have an extreme sensitivity to UV light.

Drug Photosensitivity

There are certain drugs that can cause severe photosensitivity. People taking stronger types of phototoxic drugs, or those with the conditions mentioned above, can submit an application for permission to use a darker window tint.

Penalties for Violating Car Tinting Laws in Illinois

Now that you know a bit more about Illinois window tint laws, you might be wondering what happens if you don't follow these laws.

In Illinois, violating tint laws is a petty offense. Your fine could range from $50 to $500.

However, if it's your second violation or a subsequent violation, you're looking at a class C misdemeanor. That means you could see a fine of between $100 to $500.



If you're not sure about the laws, you can contact either your local law enforcement authorities or the DMV in your area. You might be able to find what you need on their website. You can also learn more on our guide to legal window tints.

Why It Matters

Darker tint looks sleek, and it can really cut back on the heat and glare from the sun. So why is dark tint illegal anyway?

If a window tint is too dark, it can create safety hazards. For one, it's harder for law enforcement officers to see what's happening inside the vehicle. For another, windows that are too dark can make it difficult for safety officials to spot car accident victims in the vehicle.



Darkly tinted car windows also make it tougher for drivers to communicate with one another. If you and another car stop at a four-way stop at the same time, for instance, looking at the other driver can give you clues on whether they're paying attention or not. If the windows are too dark and you can't clearly see the other driver, this can lead to accidents.

Window Tinting Made Easy

Illinois window tint laws might sound a little complex at first, but they're not too tough to follow once you understand the ins and outs. Use our tips above to get a better idea of how window tinting works. If you're not sure what's considered legal, contact your local DMV or law enforcement authorities.

If you're ready to tint your vehicle windows, you can leave it to us! At Tint To U, we specialize in auto, residential, and commercial window tinting services. If you're in the Orland Park or Plainfield area, get your free quote today to get started.