Drivers often enjoy window tinting for good reasons. It helps protect from the sun’s intense UV rays, gives more privacy, and keeps cars cooler inside. However, just putting tint on your windows isn’t enough.
In Minnesota—known for its strong focus on driver safety—there are specific regulations regarding how dark your window tint can be. These rules protect everyone on the road and ensure vehicles follow the law. Understanding these regulations is essential for all vehicle owners. This guide helps clarify what you need to know about legal tint in MN.
Key Concepts: VLT and Reflectivity
Two primary terms related to window tint are Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and reflectivity. VLT means how much light can pass through your tinted window. If a window has 50% VLT, half of the outside light gets through.
Reflectivity is the amount of light that bounces off the window. Too much reflection can cause glare for other drivers, making it harder for them to see. Minnesota’s tint rules consider both VLT and reflectivity to ensure that windows are safe and meet the law.
Specific Tint Regulations for Different Vehicles
Minnesota has different rules regarding the darkness of window tint, depending on the type of vehicle. It’s essential to know these differences.
Passenger Cars (Sedans)
- Windshield: You cannot put any tint on your windshield.
- Front Side Windows: These windows, located next to the driver and front passenger, must allow more than 50% of outside light to enter (meaning a VLT of 50% or higher).
- Back Side Windows: The windows behind the front ones must also let in more than 50% of outside light (50% VLT or higher).
- Rear Window: The back window of your car must let in more than 50% of outside light (50% VLT or higher).
- Reflectivity: No tinted window on a passenger car can reflect more than 20% of light.
SUVs and Vans
- Windshield: Like passenger cars, no tint is allowed on the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: These must also allow more than 50% of outside light to pass through (50% VLT or higher).
- Back Side Windows: the windows behind the front seats can be tinted to any darkness level for SUVs and vans.
- Rear Window: The rear window on an SUV or van can also be tinted to any darkness.
- Reflectivity: No tinted window on an SUV or van can reflect more than 20% of light.
Other General Rules
Minnesota doesn’t have rules about the color of your window tint. Additionally, the film doesn’t require a special sticker from the manufacturer. However, you need a small sticker between the film and the glass on your driver’s side window. This sticker shows that your tint is legal. When police measure tint, they usually allow for a slight difference of 3% in the VLT reading.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tinting
Minnesota recognizes that some individuals have medical conditions that necessitate darker window tints. You might qualify for a medical exemption if you have severe sensitivity to light (photosensitivity) or certain skin conditions. To get this exemption, you must get your doctor’s note or prescription.
This document should explain your medical need and, in some cases, specify the required VLT percentage. Always keep this medical documentation in your vehicle. If a police officer pulls you over, showing them this paper can help you avoid problems.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
If your vehicle’s window tint doesn’t follow Minnesota’s rules, it’s considered a civil offense. This means it’s not a crime, but it can still lead to fines. Law enforcement officers often carry devices that can measure the VLT of your windows right on the spot.
If your tint is found to be too dark, you’ll receive a ticket. It’s important to fix illegal tint as soon as possible, as repeated violations can lead to higher penalties and more trouble.
