Back in 1996, Wisconsin authorities set up laws governing car window tinting. To steer clear of penalties, it is essential to be well-versed in the tinting regulations, including the permitted darkness and reflectiveness. To assist you in avoiding trouble, I have compiled all the data and documentation on your automobile’s window tinting. Besides the basic laws, there are further regulations and guidelines to be aware of, so be sure to read on.
Auto window tinting involves two important factors that you should keep in mind. These are Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR), and I’ll be explaining them in just a moment. First up, let’s talk about VLT.
1. Legal Window Tint Film Darkness in Wisconsin (VLT)
Window Tint Darkness or Visible light transmission (VLT) is a measure of the amount of light that passes through a film. It’s measured in percentages and can differ from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Tinting laws differ from state to state, and Wisconsin is no exception. The permissible tint darkness can vary depending on the state you’re in, as well as the type of vehicle you own. It’s important to keep in mind that the rules for passenger cars may differ from those for multi-purpose vehicles. Therefore, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Wisconsin’s specific tinting regulations. Read through the laws carefully to avoid any unwanted surprises.
Tint darkness law for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Wisconsin:
Windshield: You can use non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use maximum up to 50% tint darkness.
Back Side windows: You can use a maximum 35% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use a maximum 35% tint darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness law for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Wisconsin:
Windshield: You can use non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 50% tint darkness for front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can use a maximum 35% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use a maximum 35% tint darkness for rear windows.
2. Legal Window Tint Film Reflection in Wisconsin (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. The VLR is expressed as a percentage, ranging from 0% to 100%. The VLR, or visible light reflection, is a crucial factor in determining the level of tinting. A lower VLR percentage shows that less visible light is reflected into the vehicle, resulting in more sunlight being blocked. It’s important to note that Wisconsin’s window tinting laws permit a specific percentage of window reflection (VLR) when using a tint. Therefore, it’s crucial to pay attention to this aspect as well.
Tint reflection law for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Wisconsin:
Front Side windows: Window tint film installed on the front side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint film installed on the back side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be reflective.
Tint reflection law for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Wisconsin:
Front Side windows: Window tint film installed on the front side windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint film installed on the backside windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be reflective.
Other Wisconsin Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
Wisconsin takes its vehicle window tinting regulations seriously, and failure to comply with the rules can cause penalties. Besides adhering to the permitted darkness and glare on each window, there are many other guidelines and regulations that you must follow. To avoid getting in trouble, it’s crucial to be aware of all the rules and regulations surrounding window tinting in Wisconsin. Here are some of the additional regulations you need to keep in mind:
Side Mirrors: If you’re planning on tinting your rear window in Wisconsin, keep in mind that you’ll need to have dual side mirrors. This is a state requirement for any car that has a rear window tint below 60% VLT (visible light transmission).
Restricted Colors: Unlike some other states, Wisconsin doesn’t restrict the colors of tint that you can use on your car. So, go for whatever color you prefer, as long as it meets the other requirements.
Tint Variance: For the actual darkness of the tint, there’s a bit of leeway. The state allows for a 3% variance, so if your tint is a little bit darker or lighter than the legal limit, you’re still in the clear.
Certificates: Unlike some other states, film manufacturers in Wisconsin don’t need to certify the film they sell. So, you don’t have to worry about whether the film you’re buying is legal or not.
Stickers: Another difference between Wisconsin and some other states is that there’s no requirement for a sticker to identify legal tinting on your car. So, you don’t have to worry about getting a special sticker for your car.
Medical Exceptions: If you have a medical condition that requires you to have darker tints on your car, Wisconsin allows for medical exemptions. So, if you have a doctor’s note, you can have darker tints on your car than the legal limit.
Penalties: Finally, it’s worth mentioning that if you’re caught with illegal tinting in your car, you could look at a fine of $175. So, it’s definitely worth making sure that your tint meets all the requirements before you hit the road.
Conclusion
In Wisconsin, laws for tint darkness on passenger vehicles (sedans) and multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) are the same. On the windshield, you can use a non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. For front side windows, the maximum allowed tint darkness is 50%. For the back side and rear windows, the maximum allowed tint darkness is 35%. Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted below 60% VLT, and there are no restrictions on tint colors or a requirement for stickers to identify legal tinting. Tint variance of 3% is allowed, and medical exemptions are permitted. Penalties for illegal tinting can include fines of up to $175.
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 Wisconsin may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.