Is 20% Tint Legal in Michigan? VLT Laws Explained

Is 20% Tint Legal in Michigan? VLT Laws Explained

If you're thinking about tinting your windows in Michigan, you need to know the legal limits—or you could face fines and be required to remove the tint. Michigan has specific window tint laws that apply to all vehicles, and getting them wrong can result in a ticket, a failed vehicle inspection, or both. This guide breaks down exactly what's legal in Michigan so you can make an informed decision before visiting a tint shop.

Quick Reference Table

Understanding VLT (Visible Light Transmission)

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission, and it's a measurement of how much light passes through your window tint. If a tint has a VLT of 70%, that means 70% of the sun's light can pass through the tint, and 30% is blocked. The higher the VLT percentage, the lighter the tint. The lower the percentage, the darker it is.

This is why the question "is 20% tint legal in Michigan?" is so important. A 20% tint is very dark—it blocks 80% of light—and Michigan's law won't allow that on your front windows. Understanding VLT helps you stay compliant and choose a tint darkness that works for your needs while keeping you legal.

Front Windshield Rules in Michigan

Michigan law allows tinting on the front windshield, but with a significant restriction. You can only apply non-reflective tint to the upper portion of the windshield above the AS-1 line. The AS-1 line is the manufacturer's marking that indicates the uppermost part of the area designed for safe driver vision, typically about 4-5 inches from the top of the windshield.

This upper tint can be any darkness, but the critical part is that it must be non-reflective and cannot impair visibility. The rest of your windshield below that line cannot be tinted at all. Many drivers don't realize this exception exists, so if you want windshield tint in Michigan, make sure your installer knows the AS-1 line rule.

Side Window Rules in Michigan

Both the driver's and front passenger side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through. This means the maximum darkness you can legally apply to these windows is a VLT of 70%—anything darker than that violates Michigan law.

So to answer the original question: no, 20% tint is not legal on your front side windows in Michigan. You can go no darker than 70% VLT. The good news is that 70% tint still provides decent heat reduction and privacy while staying within legal limits. Many drivers find this darkness level to be a good balance between protection and compliance.

Rear Window Rules in Michigan

Michigan gives you significantly more freedom with your rear windows. There are no VLT restrictions on rear side windows or the rear window. This means you can tint them as dark as you want, even 5% or darker, without violating state law.

This is one of the more permissive aspects of Michigan's tint laws. Many drivers take advantage of this by tinting their rear windows very dark for maximum privacy and heat blocking, while keeping their front windows at the legal 70% limit to stay compliant.

Restricted Tint Colors in Michigan

Michigan does not prohibit specific tint colors like red, amber, or blue. However, the tint must not be reflective on the front windows, and it must allow the required 70% of light through on front side windows. If you choose a colored tint, make sure it still meets the VLT requirements and isn't overly reflective, which could cause visibility issues for other drivers.

Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Michigan

Michigan does allow medical exemptions for window tint that would otherwise violate the law. If you have a medical condition that requires darker window tint for protection (such as photophobia, lupus, or certain skin conditions), you can apply for an exemption.

To obtain a medical exemption, you'll need to get a letter from a licensed healthcare provider (doctor, optometrist, or dermatologist) stating that you have a medical condition requiring darker tint. You then submit this documentation to the Michigan Secretary of State or present it to law enforcement if stopped. While you have the exemption in place, you can apply darker tint. Keep your medical documentation in the vehicle in case you're pulled over.

Penalties for Illegal Tint in Michigan

If you're caught with illegal window tint in Michigan, the penalties can add up. A typical citation for illegal tint is issued as a misdemeanor, with fines ranging from $100 to $500 depending on the officer's discretion and local ordinances.

In many cases, law enforcement will issue a "fix-it ticket," which gives you a set period (usually 10-30 days) to have the illegal tint removed and then provide proof of compliance. If you fail inspection during a vehicle registration renewal, you'll be required to remove the tint before your registration can be renewed.

Find a Compliant Tint Shop in Michigan

The best way to stay legal is to work with a professional window tint installer who knows Michigan's laws inside and out. Visit TintingSource.com to find certified window tinting shops near you—our directory includes shops throughout Michigan that specialize in legal, compliant tint installations and can help you choose the right darkness level for your vehicle and needs.