Window Tint Laws in Montana 2025 [Updated]

Montana Window Tint Law 2025: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type

Visible Light Transmission (VLT) measures the amount of light passing through your vehicle’s windows. Montana’s tint laws set clear limits on how dark your window tint can be, based on the type of vehicle you drive. These rules help keep the roads safe and ensure good visibility.

Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Montana (2025)

Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of light through.
Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 14% of light through.
Rear Window: Must allow more than 14% of light through.

Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Montana (2025)

Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 24% of light through.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness allowed.
Rear Window: Any darkness allowed.

Understanding Montana Window Tint Law

Montana’s wide-open roads and bright sunlight make window tint a smart choice. But the state keeps strict rules. The Montana window tint law 2025 limits how dark your tint can be to ensure safety for all drivers. Going beyond the legal window tint Montana limits can bring fines or police stops.

If you break the rules, your insurance could be affected too. Claims might get denied or premiums may increase if your tint is too dark. Following the Montana car tint legal limits keeps your coverage secure.

Knowing the Montana window tint percentage 2025 helps you find the right balance between comfort and compliance.

Why Compliance with Montana Tint Laws Matters

Driving in Montana means dealing with bright sunlight, harsh weather changes, and glare from snow or ice. Window tint reduces glare and heat, making your drive more comfortable. But if your tint is too dark, it can block your view, especially at night or in bad weather. Following Montana’s 2025 tint laws helps you see clearly and stay safe on the road.

Window tint laws are not just about safety—they come with legal rules. Montana police can stop your vehicle if your tint is illegal. You might face fines or be told to remove the tint if it’s too dark. Staying within the legal limits means you avoid these troubles and enjoy hassle-free driving.

Your insurance matters too. If your tint breaks the law, your insurance claim might be denied, or your rates could increase. By sticking to Window Tint Laws in Montana, you protect your coverage and save money in the long run.

What Changed in Montana Tinting Law 2025?

Most of Montana’s tint laws stay the same, but the rules about the windshield are clear: no tint is allowed below the AS-1 line, ensuring the driver’s view is never blocked.

For sedans, front side windows must let in at least 24% of visible light, while back and rear windows must allow at least 14%.

For SUVs and vans, the windshield and front side windows follow the same rules, but darker tint is allowed on the back and rear windows.

Window Tinting Laws in Montana

Montana enforces window tinting laws under Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Section 61-9-402. These rules apply to all vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and trucks, and are designed to ensure safe driving and clear visibility on the road.

Passenger Cars and Sedans

Montana law allows non-reflective tint only above the AS-1 line on the windshield to ensure the driver’s clear view. The rest of the windshield must remain untinted.

Front side windows must let in more than 24% of visible light to guarantee good visibility for safe driving. Back side windows and rear windows must allow at least 14% of visible light.

Multi-Purpose Vehicles (SUVs and Vans)

SUVs and vans follow the same rules for the windshield and front side windows. Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the AS-1 line, and front side windows must allow over 24% light.

However, for back side windows and rear windows, any level of tint darkness is permitted, providing more flexibility for these vehicles.

Montana Tint Law 2025: Sedans, SUVs, Trucks Compared

Vehicle Type	Front Windshield	Front Side Windows	Rear Side Windows	Rear Window
Sedans	Non-reflective above AS-1	≥24% VLT	≥14% VLT	≥14% VLT
SUVs/Vans	Non-reflective above AS-1	≥24% VLT	No limit	No limit
Trucks	Non-reflective above AS-1	≥24% VLT	No limit	No limit

Note: Trucks and other vehicles with tinted rear windows must have dual side mirrors.

Window Tint Reflection in Montana

Montana allows window tint that reflects incoming light to help reduce glare and heat inside your vehicle.

Tint Reflection Limits for Sedans

Front Side Windows: Reflectivity must not exceed 35%.
Back Side Windows: Reflectivity must also be below 35%.

Tint Reflection Limits for SUVs and Vans

Front Side Windows: No more than 35% reflectivity is allowed.
Back Side Windows: Reflectivity must stay under 35% as well.

Other Important Montana Window Tint Rules

Side Mirrors: Montana has no restrictions on side mirrors when tinting rear windows.
Restricted Colors: Red, yellow, and amber tint colors are not allowed in Montana.
Certificates: Manufacturers do not need to certify that their tint complies with Montana laws.
Stickers: Although not required, Montana law recommends placing stickers on windows to show tint legality.

Legal Window Tint Certificates in Montana

Montana does not require manufacturers or installers to certify that window tint films meet state laws. Drivers do not have to use compliance stickers on their tinted windows, but such stickers are recommended to avoid confusion during police stops. Law enforcement can test tint darkness with handheld devices during traffic stops or inspections.

Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Montana

Montana allows medical exemptions for darker window tint if health issues like migraines, eye sensitivity, or skin conditions require extra protection. To qualify, you need a signed note from a licensed doctor explaining your medical need. Keep this letter in your vehicle to show police if asked. Even with an exemption, banned colors like red, amber, and yellow remain illegal.

Window Tint Violation Penalties in Montana

Montana’s tint laws are more permissive with up to 35% reflectivity allowed on all windows. However, breaking the rules can lead to serious penalties. Tint violations are misdemeanors, punishable by fines up to $500 and jail time up to 6 months. Severe penalties are rare but possible, especially for repeat offenses.

Police can pull you over and test your tint anytime. First offenses usually lead to a warning or fine, but ignoring the problem can increase fines and risk jail time. It’s safer and cheaper to fix illegal tint quickly.

Risks of Illegal Window Tint in Montana

Illegal tint risks fines, jail, and failing vehicle inspections. Insurance claims could also be denied if your tint breaks the law. Fixing tint issues early saves money, time, and stress. Following Montana’s tint laws keeps you safe, legal, and worry-free on the road.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Montana Tint Law 2025

Applying Too Dark Tint on Front Side Windows
Montana law requires front side windows to allow more than 24% of light through. Many drivers make the mistake of installing tint that is too dark, risking fines and forced removal.
Ignoring Windshield Tint Restrictions
Only the top 6 inches of the windshield can have non-reflective tint. Tinting below this can cause a ticket.
Assuming No Rules for Back and Rear Windows
While back side and rear windows have fewer restrictions, reflective or mirrored tint is not allowed anywhere on the vehicle.
Not Carrying Medical Exemption Documentation
If you have a medical exemption for darker tint, you must carry proper documentation and renew it as required. Forgetting this can lead to citations.
Skipping Compliance Stickers
Every legal aftermarket tint must have a compliance sticker between the glass and the tint. Skipping this can cause inspection failures and fines.

FAQs about Montana Tint Law 2025

Q: What is the darkest tint allowed on front side windows?
A: Front side windows must allow at least 24% of visible light to pass through.

Q: Can I tint my windshield?
A: Only the top 6 inches of the windshield may have non-reflective tint. The rest must be clear.

Q: Are there restrictions on back and rear windows?
A: You can apply any darkness on back and rear windows, but reflective or mirror-like tint is banned.

Q: Is a medical exemption available for darker tint?
A: Yes. You must have documentation from a licensed physician and carry it in the vehicle at all times.

Q: Do I need a compliance sticker on my tinted windows?
A: Yes. All aftermarket tint must have a sticker visible between the tint and glass, showing it meets Montana’s standards.

Q: What happens if I break the tint laws?
A: You may get a ticket, have to remove illegal tint, and pay fines. Repeat offenses can lead to higher penalties.

Conclusion

Keeping your vehicle’s window tint legal in Montana helps you avoid costly tickets and keeps your driving safe. Using tint film that meets Montana’s rules, like allowing at least 24% light through front side windows and following the windshield tint limits, protects your vision and keeps you street-legal.

Always check that your tint has the required compliance sticker, and if you qualify for a medical exemption, carry your paperwork at all times. Staying informed about Montana’s tint laws and consulting with a trusted installer can save you trouble and expense.

Make sure to review the latest guidelines from the Montana Department of Justice or local authorities before tinting your vehicle. Understanding and following the law ensures your tint looks good, keeps you comfortable, and keeps you on the right side of the law.

Resources & Useful Links for Montana Drivers

Montana Department of Justice – Vehicle Division: dojmt.gov
Montana Vehicle Code Chapter 61 – Window Tint Regulations: leg.mt.gov
Medical Exemption Information – Montana DMV: dojmt.gov/driver-services
Tint Compliance Guide PDF: CarKitAdvisor.com/tools-resources
Visible Light Transmission Calculator: CarKitAdvisor.com