Super dark, tinted windows on getaway cars in spy movies may look cool, but they’re a different story on the roads in real life. Window tint is a popular choice for drivers in Illinois, and not just for its sleek look; giving your car windows a darker hue also means more privacy and added protection from harsh UV rays.
You can’t just go down to your local auto shop and come out with a windshield a few shades darker. Like many states, Illinois has specific laws governing how to safely tint your windows. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Does Illinois Have Window Tint Laws?
A law regarding something like window tints might seem odd, but it’s in place for a good reason: Namely, to keep you and everyone else on the road safe. Law enforcement needs to be able to see into vehicles to identify their occupants.
Tints that are too dark can also make it hard for drivers to see, especially at night or in bad weather, which can lead to accidents. As such, ultra-dark windows might seem cool and stylish, but they shouldn’t come at the potential cost of someone’s life (i.e., wrongful death), including your own.
The Specifics Of Illinois Window Tint Law
Illinois’ window tint law cites specific percentages, known as visible light transmission (VLT), that refer to how much light can pass through a tinted window. The lower the VLT is, the darker the tint.
Different restrictions apply to each type of car window:
- Front-side windows must allow at least 35% of light to pass through, so you can’t give them an extremely dark tint.
- Back-side windows have no VLT restriction, so you can tint them as dark as you like.
- Rear windows can be tinted to your preference as well, but Illinois law requires you to have two exterior rearview mirrors if you do it.
- Windshields are under the most stringent regulation; only the top six inches can be tinted, and the tint must be non-reflective.
Depending on your preferences, you can get the look you want (at least, on some of your car) while remaining in compliance with the law.
Are There Any Exceptions To The Law?
There are some exceptions to window tint laws, but they only apply in niche cases. For example, if you have a medical condition that requires extra protection from sunlight, you can get a note from your doctor and apply for a medical exemption from the Illinois Secretary of State.
Penalties For Violating Window Tint Law
It might seem like it would be cool to drive around with tinted windows, but the consequences are anything but. An illegal window tint can saddle you with a traffic ticket and a fine. You’ll probably also be required to strip the tint from your windows, costing you even more.
How To Choose Legal Window Tint
First, ensure you’re in good hands by going to a reputable installer familiar with Illinois law. They can help you choose a tint that meets legal regulations and provides you with the privacy, sun protection, and style you want.
From there, before you move forward with any tint, make sure you do the following:
- Ask about VLT percentage to check that the tint you’re considering is legal and that the installer knows their stuff.
- Check the film’s labeling to verify the VLT percentage for yourself.
- Get a written guarantee from the vendor that states their tint meets state regulations.
Being proactive now ensures you aren’t breaking the law or opening yourself up to any unnecessary risks. And if you aren’t confident you know how to comply with window tint law, you can always reach out to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office directly for guidance.
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