Minnesota 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Minnesota window tint laws set specific limits on how dark your car’s windows can be, based on vehicle type. These rules help keep roads safe and maintain clear visibility.
Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Minnesota (2025)
- Windshield: No tint is allowed.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light to pass through.
- Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 50% of light.
Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Minnesota (2025)
- Windshield: No tint is allowed.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 50% of light.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness is allowed.
- Rear Window: Any darkness is allowed.
Understanding Minnesota Window Tint Law
Sunlight in Minnesota can be intense, especially during summer months. Window tint helps reduce glare and keep the car cooler. However, Minnesota has strict rules about how dark your tint can be. If your tint is too dark and breaks the Minnesota window tint law 2025, you could face fines or even get pulled over.
Insurance companies don’t overlook this either. Tint that violates the Minnesota car tint legal limits might lead to denied claims or higher premiums. To avoid surprises, make sure your tint meets the state’s requirements.
Knowing the Minnesota window tint percentage 2025 for each window helps you stay safe and compliant without sacrificing comfort.
Why Compliance with Minnesota Tint Laws Matters
Minnesota’s weather changes a lot. Bright sun, snow glare, and rain can make it hard to see while driving. Window tint helps reduce glare and heat inside my car. But if the tint is too dark, especially on the windshield, it can block my view and make driving unsafe. Following Minnesota’s 2025 tint laws helps me see clearly and stay safe on the road.
Police in Minnesota check window tint often. If my tint is too dark, they can stop me, give me a fine, or tell me to remove the tint. Staying inside the legal limits helps me avoid fines and problems, making driving easier and less stressful.
My insurance also depends on legal tint. If I use illegal tint, my claims might be denied or my rates might go up. Following Minnesota’s tint rules protects my insurance and saves me money.
What Changed in Minnesota Tinting Law 2025?
Minnesota still does not allow any tint on the windshield. This rule is important so drivers always have a clear, safe view ahead.
For sedans, the front side, back side, and rear windows must let in at least 50% of light. SUVs and vans must keep their windshield clear and let more than 50% of light through the front side windows. But they can have any darkness on the back and rear windows. This rule helps larger vehicles stay safe but gives more privacy options.
Window Tinting Laws in Minnesota (2025)
Minnesota enforces window tinting rules to ensure safe driving and clear visibility. These laws apply to all types of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and trucks.
Passenger Cars (Sedans)
In Minnesota, you cannot put any tint on the windshield of a sedan. This law ensures drivers have a clear view of the road at all times, helping to prevent accidents caused by poor visibility.
The front side windows, back side windows, and the rear window must let in more than 50% of visible light. This means your tint can’t be too dark, so both you and law enforcement can see inside the vehicle if needed.
Multi-Purpose Vehicles (SUVs and Vans)
Just like sedans, the windshield on SUVs and vans must stay completely clear—no tint allowed. This helps drivers see better in all lighting conditions.
The front side windows must also let in more than 50% of light, making sure the driver has good side visibility.
However, back side windows and the rear window can be tinted as dark as you want. This gives SUV and van owners more privacy and helps reduce heat inside the vehicle.e windows and the rear window can be tinted as dark as you want. This gives SUV and van owners more privacy and helps reduce heat inside the vehicle.
Minnesota Tint Law 2025: Sedans, SUVs, Vans, Trucks Compared
| Vehicle Type | Front Windshield | Front Side Windows | Rear Side Windows | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedans | No tint allowed | ≥ 50% VLT | ≥ 50% VLT | ≥ 50% VLT |
| SUVs/Vans | No tint allowed | ≥ 50% VLT | Any darkness allowed | Any darkness allowed |
| Trucks | No tint allowed | ≥ 50% VLT | Any darkness allowed | Any darkness allowed |
Note: Minnesota law requires trucks and other vehicles with tinted rear windows to have working dual side mirrors for safe driving.
Legal Window Tint Certificates in Minnesota
Minnesota does not require manufacturers or installers to certify that window tint films comply with state laws. However, drivers must ensure their tint has a sticker placed between the film and glass on the driver’s side front window. This sticker shows the tint type and confirms it is legal in Minnesota. It helps police quickly verify compliance during traffic stops.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Minnesota
Minnesota offers medical exemptions for window tint to drivers who need darker tint due to health conditions like migraines, glaucoma, or skin sensitivity. To qualify, you need a signed doctor’s note explaining why darker tint is necessary. Keep this medical proof in your vehicle to avoid fines or tickets during law enforcement checks.
Window Tint Violation Penalties in Minnesota
If your window tint violates Minnesota state law, you may face a civil fine starting at $100 or more. Police often issue a fix-it ticket, giving you time to fix the tint and avoid harsher penalties. Repeat violations lead to higher fines. Illegal tint is treated seriously, so it’s best to stay compliant to avoid legal trouble.
Risks of Illegal Window Tint in Minnesota
Using illegal window tint puts you at risk for fines, traffic stops, and legal issues. Police can pull you over if your tint is too dark or non-compliant with Minnesota laws. Fines usually start at $100 and increase if ignored.
Ignoring tickets can cause more severe penalties and may cause your vehicle to fail safety inspections. Insurance companies may also deny claims or raise premiums if your tint breaks the law. Fixing illegal tint quickly is easier and saves money compared to dealing with court or insurance problems later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Under Minnesota Tint Law 2025
- Tinting the Entire Windshield:
Many drivers mistakenly apply tint beyond the allowed top strip (AS-1 line). This violates the law and can lead to fines and safety risks by reducing visibility. - Using Too Dark Tint on Front Side Windows:
Minnesota requires front side windows to let in at least 50% of visible light. Choosing darker tints reduces your visibility and increases the chance of getting a ticket. - Ignoring Vehicle Type Differences:
Tint rules differ for passenger cars versus SUVs and vans. Applying tint suitable for an SUV on a sedan can cause legal trouble. - Not Carrying Medical Exemption Documents:
If you qualify for a medical exemption, you must carry valid documentation in your vehicle. Failing to do so may result in fines despite having a legitimate exemption. - Assuming All Tints Are Legal:
Not all window films are approved for use in Minnesota. Always verify with your installer that the tint complies with Minnesota standards to avoid costly corrections. - Neglecting to Renew Medical Exemptions:
Medical exemptions require periodic renewal. Overlooking this can invalidate your exemption and expose you to penalties.
FAQs About Minnesota Window Tint Laws 2025
Q1: Can I tint my entire windshield?
No, only a non-reflective strip at the top of the windshield (above the AS-1 line) is allowed.
Q2: What is the minimum light transmission for front side windows?
The tint must allow at least 50% of visible light to pass through.
Q3: Can I tint the rear windows as dark as I want on SUVs and vans?
Yes, there are no restrictions on tint darkness for rear windows on multi-purpose vehicles like SUVs and vans.
Q4: Is a medical exemption available for darker tints?
Yes, Minnesota offers medical exemptions for people with specific health conditions. You must have a signed letter from a licensed doctor and carry it in your vehicle.
Q5: What happens if I violate Minnesota’s tint laws?
You may be fined and required to remove illegal tint. Repeat violations could lead to higher fines or other penalties.
Q6: Are reflective or mirrored tints allowed?
No, Minnesota law prohibits reflective or mirrored window films as they can cause glare and unsafe driving conditions.
Q7: Do I need a sticker or certificate to prove my tint is legal?
Minnesota does not require a sticker on tinted windows, but it is wise to keep any certification documents from your tint installer.
Conclusion
Following Minnesota window tint laws is essential for avoiding fines, staying safe, and keeping your vehicle street-legal. By using legal tint films, ensuring your front side windows allow at least 50% visible light, and following the specific rules for your vehicle type, you can avoid common mistakes that lead to penalties or inspection failures.
To stay informed and fully compliant, regularly check updates from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) or consult a professional tint installer. Understanding and following these laws now can save you money, reduce legal hassles, and keep your driving experience safe and comfortable.
Resources & Useful Links for Minnesota Drivers
- Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services: dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs
- Minnesota Statutes on Vehicle Equipment (Window Tint): revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=169.71
- Minnesota Medical Exemption for Window Tint: Contact your healthcare provider or local DPS office for documentation requirements.
- Minnesota State Patrol: statepatrol.dps.mn.gov
- Window Tint FAQs and Guidelines (Official PDF): mndot.gov/safety/roadsafety/docs/window-tinting.pdf