Illinois law under 625 ILCS 5/12-503 sets limits on how dark your window tint can be based on how much light passes through. Violating these rules can result in fines and failed vehicle inspections.
Window Tint Darkness Limits in Illinois
Illinois, like other states, measures window tint by visible light transmission, or VLT. VLT is the percentage of light that comes through your window. Here’s a rundown of Illinois tint darkness limits:If you want uniform tint (same darkness all around):
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint strip on the top 6 inches only
- Front side windows: Must allow at least 35% of light in
- Back side windows: Must allow at least 35% of light in
- Rear window: Must allow at least 35% of light in
If you want darker rear windows (or have factory-tinted rear windows):
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint strip on the top 6 inches only
- Front side windows: Must use a lighter tint than the rear (front windows cannot be as dark as the rear)
- Back side windows: May be darker than 35%
- Rear window: May be darker than 35%
Window Tint Reflection Limits in Illinois
Illinois law bans reflective or metallic-looking tint on all windows. The law says tint must be “non-reflective,” but it doesn’t specify an exact percentage. This means if your tint looks shiny or metallic from the outside, you could get pulled over. Officers in Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, and elsewhere in Illinois will use their own discretion regarding what counts as reflective.
Other Tint Regulations in Illinois
If you tint your rear window, Illinois requires you to have dual side mirrors. This applies to sedans, SUVs, and vans. You need clear visibility, and if the rear window is dark, side mirrors are mandatory.
Illinois doesn’t ban any tint colors, but some colors may still get you stopped if they impair visibility or resemble emergency lighting. And some municipalities may have local ordinances restricting colors.
Manufacturers don’t need to certify their tint film in Illinois. You don’t require stickers on your windows to prove legality. Police can measure VLT on the spot by using handheld meters that beam light through your window.
Exemptions and Special Cases
Medical exemptions exist, but they’re quite rare. Exemptions to the tint laws are generally limited to conditions that cause extreme light sensitivity, such as lupus, albinism, and disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis. Minor light sensitivity that can be fixed by wearing sunglasses won’t get you an exemption in Illinois.
To obtain an exemption, you’ll need a physician’s certification letter filed with the Secretary of State. This needs to be renewed every four years. The state issues special license plates for exempt vehicles. Keep the certification in your car at all times, because police will ask for it if they pull you over.
Penalties for Illegal Tint in Illinois
The first offense for illegal tint is a petty offense punishable by a fine of $50-$500. If you get caught again, it becomes a Class C misdemeanor with $100-$500 fines.
Illegal tint can also create problems after car accidents. If your tint limits your visibility and contributes to a crash, Illinois comparative fault rules can reduce what you’ll recover in compensation. And insurance companies may use illegal tint against you in claims.
