Illinois window tint laws
In Illinois, passenger cars must have at least 35% VLT on front side, back side, and rear windows. Multipurpose vehicles (SUVs, vans, trucks) require at least 50% VLT on front side windows but may be any darkness on back side and rear windows. Medical exemptions are available through the Illinois Secretary of State.
Tint darkness limits in Illinois
In Illinois, the amount of light that must pass through your windows is set by statute. Darker film has a lower VLT percentage. The rules below apply to aftermarket window film; factory tint on back windows is usually permitted regardless of percentage.
Sedan — VLT limits
SUV / van / truck — VLT limits
Reflectivity — sedan
Reflectivity — SUV / van
Windshield, mirrors, colors & certification
Windshield
Non-reflective tint is allowed on the windshield above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Tint on the windshield must be non-reflective and may not extend below the AS-1 line.
Side mirrors
Dual outside mirrors are required when rear-window visibility is affected by tint.
Restricted colors
- Red and amber are not permitted as they can be confused with signal or emergency lighting.
Compliance sticker
Illinois does not require a compliance sticker, but drivers should keep documentation of installed film.
Film certification
Illinois does not require film manufacturers to certify their film for sale in the state.
Penalties & enforcement
Violations are typically treated as petty offenses with fines that vary by locality, plus a requirement to remove non-compliant film.
Darker tint with a medical exemption in Illinois
Illinois allows drivers with a documented medical condition to obtain an exemption to operate a vehicle with darker-than-standard tint. The application is filed with the Illinois Secretary of State and requires a physician statement.
Who typically qualifies: Drivers with a medical condition requiring limited exposure to sunlight, certified by a licensed physician.
Renewal / expiration: Exemption authorizations are typically valid for the period indicated on the medical authorization and must be carried in the vehicle.
What you need to apply
- Physician certification of the medical condition.
- Completed Illinois Secretary of State medical authorization form.
- Carry the approved authorization in the vehicle at all times.
Common mistakes drivers make in Illinois
- Applying 35% tint to the front windows of an SUV. SUVs require at least 50% VLT on front side windows in Illinois.
- Applying sedan rules (35%) to an MPV/SUV and believing it is legal on all windows.
- Driving without the medical authorization form when relying on a medical exemption.
- Installing reflective or mirrored film that exceeds the 35% reflectivity limit.
Illinois tint law FAQ
Is 20% tint legal in Illinois?
No. Illinois requires 35% or higher VLT on sedan windows and 50% or higher on SUV/van front side windows. 20% tint would only be allowed on non-front windows of an SUV or van.
What is the VLT difference between sedans and SUVs in Illinois?
Sedans must maintain 35% VLT on all windows, while SUVs and vans must maintain 50% VLT on front side windows but can have any VLT on back side and rear windows.
Does Illinois require a tint sticker?
No. Illinois does not require a compliance sticker or film-manufacturer certification for tinted windows.
How do I get a medical tint exemption in Illinois?
File a medical authorization form with the Illinois Secretary of State, supported by a licensed physician’s certification of the medical necessity. Carry the approved authorization in your vehicle.
Official references
Sources below are the primary official documents we consulted for this page. If you notice an outdated link or discrepancy, please report it to our editors.
Editor’s notes
Illinois distinguishes between passenger cars and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs), which affects front-window VLT. Drivers should determine their vehicle classification before installing film.
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