Missouri 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) measures how much light passes through your car’s windows. Missouri sets specific VLT limits for window tint based on vehicle type to ensure safety and visibility on the road.
Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Missouri (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% VLT.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness permitted.
- Rear Window: Any darkness permitted.
Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Missouri (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed only above the AS-1 line.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% VLT.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness permitted.
- Rear Window: Any darkness permitted.
Note: Missouri requires non-reflective tint on the windshield above the AS-1 line and allows more freedom for rear and back side windows. This regulation ensures driver visibility while allowing some flexibility for privacy and sun protection on other windows.
Understanding Missouri Window Tint Law
Missouri’s weather swings from hot summers to cold winters, making window tint useful year-round. The Missouri window tint law 2025 restricts how dark your tint can be, especially on front windows. If your tint is darker than the legal window tint Missouri allows, you risk fines and police action.
Your insurance won’t look kindly on illegal tint. Claims might be denied or your premiums might rise if you don’t follow the Missouri car tint legal limits. Staying legal protects your coverage and saves money.
Get familiar with the Missouri window tint percentage 2025 to make sure your tint stays within the law and keeps you comfortable on the road.
Why You Should Follow Missouri Tint Laws
Window tinting in Missouri helps keep your car cool and reduces glare, making driving safer and more comfortable. But too much tint can block your view, especially at night or in bad weather. Following Missouri’s 2025 tint laws keeps your vision clear and your drives safe.
Missouri law enforcement often checks cars for illegal tint. If your windows are too dark, you could get a fine or be ordered to remove the tint. Sticking to the legal limits saves you from costly tickets and hassles.
Your insurance may also depend on legal tinting. Using illegal tint could lead to denied claims or higher premiums. By following Missouri’s tint rules, you protect your coverage and save money.
What’s New in Missouri Tint Law 2025?
Missouri continues to allow non-reflective tint only above the AS-1 line on the windshield. This keeps the driver’s front view clear and safe.
Front side windows must let in more than 35% of light, while back and rear windows can be tinted darker, offering privacy and sun protection for passengers.
Missouri Window Tinting Laws
Missouri law applies to all vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans, to ensure safety and visibility.
Passenger Cars (Sedans)
Windshields can only have non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line—the rest must be clear. Front side windows need to allow over 35% visible light for clear vision.
Back side and rear windows can have any level of darkness, giving you more privacy.
SUVs and Vans
The same windshield and front window rules apply: no tint below the AS-1 line, and front side windows must allow over 35% light.
Rear and back side windows can be tinted to any darkness, providing extra privacy and sun protection.
Missouri Tint Law 2025: Sedans, SUVs, Trucks Compared
| Vehicle Type | Front Windshield | Front Side Windows | Rear Side Windows | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedans | Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line | ≥35% VLT | Any darkness | Any darkness |
| SUVs/Vans | Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line | ≥35% VLT | Any darkness | Any darkness |
| Trucks | Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line | ≥35% VLT | Any darkness | Any darkness |
Note: Vehicles with tinted rear windows must have dual side mirrors for proper visibility.
Legal Window Tint Certificates in Missouri
Missouri does not require manufacturers or installers to certify that their window tint films meet state laws. Unlike some states, Missouri does not require stickers to prove your tint is legal. Police and inspectors use special tools to check window tint darkness during traffic stops or vehicle inspections.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Missouri
Missouri allows medical exemptions for drivers who need darker window tint for health reasons such as glaucoma, migraines, or skin conditions. To qualify, you must have a note from a licensed doctor explaining why darker tint is needed. Keep this medical proof in your vehicle to avoid tickets if stopped by law enforcement.
Window Tint Violation Penalties in Missouri
If your tint breaks Missouri law, you may face a fine up to $75 per violation. Repeat offenses can lead to higher fines. Police can test tint darkness during stops, and tickets can add up quickly if you don’t fix illegal tint. Missouri allows a 3% tolerance in tint darkness, so a tint of 32% VLT on front windows is still legal.
Risks of Illegal Window Tint in Missouri
Illegal window tint puts you at risk of fines and legal trouble. Police can stop you anytime for tint that’s too dark. Illegal tint can cause your vehicle to fail inspections and may affect insurance claims. Fixing illegal tint early is cheaper and easier than paying fines or facing insurance issues later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid — Missouri Tint Law 2025
Ignoring Front Window Tint Limits
Missouri requires front side windows to allow at least 35% of light in. Many drivers mistakenly install darker tint on these windows, risking fines.
Using Illegal Reflective or Mirrored Tint
Reflective or mirrored tint is not allowed on any windows. Using shiny films can lead to ticketing.
Overlooking Side Mirror Requirements
If your rear window is tinted darker than allowed, you must have side mirrors on both sides. Forgetting this is a common error.
Not Carrying Medical Exemption Paperwork
If you have a medical exemption for darker tint, you must carry the official certificate in the vehicle. Without it, law enforcement can issue a violation.
Skipping Compliance Stickers
Missouri requires a sticker on tinted windows showing the film is legal. Not having this sticker visible can cause problems during inspections or police stops.
Failing to Renew Medical Exemptions on Time
Medical exemptions are valid for a limited time. Forgetting to renew them can result in fines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Missouri Tint Law 2025
Q1: What is the darkest legal tint for front side windows in Missouri?
A1: Front side windows must allow at least 35% of visible light to pass through.
Q2: Can I tint my rear windows any shade I want?
A2: Yes, rear side and rear windows can be tinted to any darkness in Missouri.
Q3: Are reflective or mirrored tints allowed?
A3: No, Missouri bans reflective or mirrored tints on all vehicle windows.
Q4: Do I need side mirrors if I tint my rear window dark?
A4: Yes, if the rear window is tinted darker than allowed, you must have side mirrors on both sides of the vehicle.
Q5: Is a medical exemption available for darker tint?
A5: Yes, you can apply for a medical exemption if you have a qualifying condition. Carry the exemption certificate in your vehicle at all times.
Q6: Are there fines for violating Missouri tint laws?
A6: Yes, violating Missouri tint laws can result in fines up to $75 per violation, with higher fines for repeat offenses.
Q7: Are compliance stickers required on tinted windows?
A7: Yes, Missouri requires a sticker to be visible on each tinted window to prove the film meets state standards.
Conclusion
Following Missouri’s window tint laws is key to staying safe on the road and avoiding costly tickets. By choosing tint films that meet the state’s 35% visible light transmission (VLT) rule for front windows and ensuring your tint has the required compliance stickers, you protect yourself from fines and legal trouble. Remember, keeping your vehicle within legal tint limits also helps maintain clear visibility, which is critical for safe driving.
Missouri tint regulations may seem complex, but staying informed by checking official sources or consulting professional installers can make the process simple and stress-free. Taking the time to understand and follow these laws now can save you money and prevent headaches in the future.
Resources & Useful Links for Missouri Drivers
- Missouri Department of Revenue – Driver Licensing and Vehicle Services: dor.mo.gov
- Missouri Revised Statutes – Vehicle Tinting Laws (Chapter 304): revisor.mo.gov
- Missouri Highway Patrol: mshp.dps.missouri.gov
- Medical Exemption Application Details: Contact Missouri Department of Revenue or local DMV offices
- Tint Compliance Guidelines & Stickers: Available through authorized tint installers or Missouri DMV