No matter where you are driving, you are bound to notice some cars have their windows tinted. Some of them have factory tint on the rear windows while other vehicles have tints on the front windows and sometimes the windshield. Drivers may tint their windows for privacy reasons, to keep the interior cooler from the sun or just to look cool. But is it legal to tint your windows in Michigan?
What does Michigan law say about tinting windows?
Every state has its own laws for window tinting and the rules are enforced differently depending on where you live. These laws exist to make sure drivers have clear visibility at all times.
According to Michigan Compiled Laws, there is no limit to how dark the rear windows and rear windshield can be tinted. As far as the front windows, the top four inches can be tinted to whatever level you like while the rest of the window can’t be tinted. The top four inches of the front windshield can be tinted. It is illegal to tint the rest of the windshield unless you have a letter signed by a licensed physician.
What do the percentages mean?
The percentages used to describe a window tint involve visible light transmission (VLT). That’s how much visible light can pass through the the tint on a window. If a window has 30% window tint, 70% of visible light can pass through.
What is reflective tint?
While most tints are dark, and meant to keep light out, there are tints on the market that reflect light. They come in many different colors and offer a unique style to tinted windows. The rules for dark tints apply to reflective tints. The only difference is that reflective tint is not allowed anywhere on the windshield and can’t be more than 35% on the front and rear windows.
Why do people tint their windows?
Tinted windows add privacy and make it harder to see inside of your vehicle. They can also keep the interior of your vehicle cooler and can help prevent the heat and sun from harming your seats over time. Tint on the windshield can reduce glare from lights and sunlight to make it easier to see. For some, it’s about making your car look cool.
How much does it cost to tint vehicle windows?
Pricing can vary depending on the darkness and type of film used to tint windows. Expect to pay between $200 to $500 for a car and the price will be a bit more for trucks, vans and SUVs. If you want to save money and avoid the hassle of leaving your car at a shop for a few hours, you can buy your own tinting film at an auto parts store or online and affix it yourself.
Is it legal?
Welcome to a new feature on freep.com that helps readers understand laws in Michigan and in their communities. Do you have a question about what’s legal and what isn’t in Michigan? Email isitlegal@freepress.com and we’ll investigate for you.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Is it legal to tint your cars windows in Michigan?
Reporting by Keenan Thompson, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
