2026 Update

Michigan Window Tint Laws — Complete Guide

Creator: Michigan Tint Exemption Editorial Team
Published: 2025-01-15

Everything you need to know about window tint regulations in Michigan. Current legal limits for every window, penalties for violations, and how medical exemptions work.

Updated April 2026 · Michigan Tint Exemption Editorial Team

Michigan Tint Limits at a Glance

VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of light that passes through the window. Lower VLT means darker tint.

Window	Sedan	SUV / Van / Truck
Front Windshield	Top 4 inches only, must not exceed 35% light reflectance	Top 4 inches only, must not exceed 35% light reflectance
Front Side Windows	No aftermarket tint allowed (must be factory only) VLT	No aftermarket tint allowed (must be factory only) VLT
Back Side Windows	Any darkness VLT	Any darkness
Rear Window	Any darkness VLT	Any darkness
Max Reflectivity	35% light reflectance maximum	35% light reflectance maximum

Understanding VLT Percentages

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission— it measures what percentage of light passes through your window tint. Here's what common VLT levels look like:

70% VLTVery light — barely noticeable

50% VLTLight tint — mild sun reduction

35% VLTMedium — noticeable but can still see inside

20% VLTDark — difficult to see inside from outside

5% (limo) VLTVery dark — nearly impossible to see inside

Penalties for Illegal Tint in Michigan

Driving with illegal tint can be costly

First offense: $115 civil infraction fine
Repeat offenses: $115+ fine, mandatory tint removal
Additional: You may be required to remove the tint and show proof of removal

The easiest way to avoid these penalties while still getting the window tint you need is to obtain a medical exemption. With a valid exemption, your darker tint is completely legal.

Restricted Tint Colors

Michigan law restricts certain tint colors: No restrictions specified. These colors are prohibited regardless of whether you have a medical exemption.

Medical Exemptions to Michigan Tint Laws

Michigan law allows individuals with qualifying medical conditions to apply for a tint exemption that permits darker window tint than the standard limits. This is authorized under Michigan Vehicle Code MCL §257.709.

Must be certified by a licensed physician

Covers conditions causing light sensitivity or UV vulnerability

Exemption documentation must be kept in the vehicle

No sticker required

Common Questions About Michigan Tint Laws

Is tint a primary offense in Michigan?

In Michigan, a tint violation can be a primary reason for a traffic stop. This means an officer can pull you over solely for having window tint that appears too dark.

Can I tint my front windshield in Michigan?

Michigan allows top 4 inches only, must not exceed 35% light reflectance. Full windshield tint is not permitted even with a medical exemption in most cases.

Do SUVs have different tint rules?

Yes. In Michigan, multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, trucks) can have any darkness on rear side windows and the rear window, while sedans must meet minimum VLT requirements.

How do police test window tint?

Law enforcement uses a tint meter (also called a photometer) to measure the VLT of your windows during a traffic stop or inspection. The device measures the percentage of light passing through.

Want Darker Tint? Get a Medical Exemption

If the standard Michigantint limits aren't dark enough for your medical needs, apply for a tint exemption today.