Back in the year 2000, Michigan introduced laws governing car window tinting. It’s important to have all the relevant information and documentation regarding your car’s window tint, such as darkness or reflectiveness that’s permissible in the state. Besides the basics, there are some other rules and regulations related to car window tinting that you should know to avoid any penalties. Read on to discover all you need to know about the subject in Michigan.
For auto window tinting, Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR) are two critical concepts to understand. In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Michigan (VLT)
Window Tint Darkness Visible light transmission (VLT) is a measure of the amount of light that passes through a film. It’s measured in percentages and can alter anywhere from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has a particular legal limitations. Therefore, if you’re driving in Michigan, the amount of light that can pass through your tinted windows may differ from that of other states. Additionally, the laws governing passenger vehicles versus multi-purpose vehicles may also vary. Therefore, it’s crucial to pay close attention to the car window tinting laws in Michigan to avoid any issues. Be sure to carefully review the regulations before hitting the road to ensure compliance with the state’s guidelines.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Michigan:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use any tint darkness but restricted to top 4 inches.
Back Side windows: You can use any tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any tint darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Michigan:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use any tint darkness but restricted to the top 4 inches for front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can use any tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any tint darkness for rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in Michigan (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. For window tinting in Michigan, reflection is measured in percentages that range from 0% to 100%. The lower the VLR percentage, the less visible light will be reflected into your car, resulting in more sunlight being blocked. It’s essential to keep in mind that Michigan’s window tint law permits a specific percentage of window reflection (VLR) when using a tint. This is a crucial factor to consider, so be sure to pay attention to it to avoid any potential violations.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Michigan:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the back side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Michigan:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the backside windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 35% reflective.
Other Michigan Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In Michigan, the regulations around window tinting for vehicles are taken seriously, and there are many rules and guidelines that you must adhere to. Besides ensuring that your windows maintain a specific level of darkness and glare, there are several other regulations that you must keep in mind to stay compliant. Here are these:
Side Mirrors: In Michigan, it is mandatory for vehicles to have side mirrors if the rear windshield is obstructed. This is to ensure that the driver has a clear view of the vehicles behind and on the sides of the car, which is crucial for the safety of all drivers on the road. The side mirrors are an important safety feature as they provide the driver with the tools to drive safely and avoid accidents.
Restricted Colors: Michigan has specific restrictions on the color of auto tint that can be used on vehicles. Silver and gold tint colors are explicitly prohibited in the state. This is likely to ensure that the tint does not interfere with the visibility of the driver, or cause a distraction to other drivers on the road.
Certificates: In Michigan, manufacturers of film do not need to certify the film they sell in the state. This means that there is no requirement for manufacturers to provide any documentation or proof that their film meets the state’s standards for legal tinting.
Stickers: In Michigan State, there is no sticker required to identify legal tinting. This means that manufacturers or installers may choose not to apply a sticker to the tinted windows, which may serve as a helpful reference for law enforcement officers, but it is not mandatory.
Medical Exceptions: Michigan does allow medical exemptions for special tint. These exemptions are intended for individuals with certain medical conditions that require a specific level of tint on their car windows.
Penalties For Non-Compliance: In Michigan, if an individual is found to have violated the state’s regulations regarding vehicle window tint, they may be subject to penalties. The specific punishment for this infraction typically includes a monetary fine and the addition of two points to the individual’s driving record.
Conclusion
The 2023 Michigan window tint law declares that the laws regarding vehicle window tint vary depending on the type of vehicle. For passenger vehicles such as sedans, the laws state that a non-reflective tint can be applied to the top 4 inches of the windshield. Front side windows can have any tint darkness, but again restricted to top 4 inches. Back side windows and rear windows can have any tint darkness. For multi-purpose vehicles such as SUVs and vans, the laws are the same, allowing non-reflective tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield, and any tint darkness on front side windows (restricted to top 4 inches), back side windows and rear windows. It is important to be aware of these laws and ensure that your vehicle’s tint complies to avoid potential penalties.
Disclaimer
The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or as a substitute for the advice of an attorney. No user of this site, or any other person or entity that may have received this information, shall rely upon the information contained as creating an attorney-client relationship between such user and Car Glass Advisor. The rules and regulations pertaining to car window tint in Michigan may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.