Car care basics

Illinois window tint law: what's legal before you tint

4 min read · 2026-09-30

Tint is measured by how much light gets through

Window tint is rated by VLT — visible light transmission. A 50% film lets half the light through; a 5% 'limo' film lets almost none through. The lower the number, the darker the window. The law sets different minimums for different windows.

The general rules for passenger cars

Windshield: non-reflective tint is only allowed on the top strip, above the manufacturer's AS-1 line (roughly the top six inches). Front side windows: must stay fairly light — Illinois sets a minimum light transmission for the driver and front passenger windows. Rear side and back windows: rules are more relaxed, especially on SUVs, vans and trucks, as long as the vehicle has two outside mirrors.

Rules have changed over the years, so before choosing a film we confirm the current Illinois limits for your specific vehicle type. Out-of-state tint that was legal elsewhere can still get you a ticket here.

Medical exemptions

Drivers with certain medical conditions that require protection from sunlight can apply to the Illinois Secretary of State for a tint exemption. Keep the approved paperwork in the car.

Getting it done right

Good tint is about more than darkness: quality film blocks heat and UV without bubbling or turning purple after a few summers. Ask us which films keep your car cooler while staying within the legal limits.

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