Tennessee 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Tennessee has strict rules on how dark your window tint can be. These rules apply to all vehicle types—sedans, SUVs, and vans—and are based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT). VLT measures the percentage of light that can pass through the window and tint film combined.
Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Tennessee (2025)
- Windshield: Must allow more than 70% of light through the entire windshield. You may use any tint darkness above the AS-1 line (a line marked by the manufacturer).
- Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Back Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Rear Window: Tint must allow more than 35% of light in.
Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Tennessee (2025)
- Windshield: Must allow more than 70% of light through the full windshield. Any darkness is allowed above the AS-1 line.
- Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Back Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Rear Window: Tint must allow more than 35% of light in.
Understanding Pennsylvania Window Tint Law
Tennessee’s hot sun can make driving miserable without the right window tint. But getting your tint wrong could cost you more than just discomfort. The Tennessee window tint law 2025 limits tint darkness strictly. Going darker than the legal window tint Tennessee allows means risking fines and even traffic stops.
Your insurance won’t cover mistakes here. If your tint breaks the Tennessee car tint legal limits, your claims could be denied, and premiums might spike. Why pay more for less protection?
Stay ahead by knowing the Tennessee window tint percentage 2025. Choose a legal tint that keeps you cool and out of trouble.
Why Compliance with Tennessee Tint Laws Matters
Window tint makes driving in Tennessee more comfortable by reducing sunlight, heat, and glare. But too much tint can block your view—especially at night or during bad weather. Following Tennessee’s tint laws helps keep you and others safe on the road.
Legal tint also keeps you out of trouble. Police in Tennessee check for illegal tint during traffic stops and inspections. If your tint is too dark, you could get a ticket or be asked to remove it. Keeping your tint legal means fewer problems, better insurance coverage, and a smoother experience when getting your vehicle inspected or registered.
What Changed in Tennessee Tinting Law 2025?
In 2025, Tennessee didn’t change its main tint rules, but enforcement got tougher in two key ways.
First, officers now use improved tint meters to measure how much light your windows let in. This makes it easier for police to check if your windows follow the 35% VLT rule for side and rear windows.
Second, there is now more focus on medical tint exemptions. Drivers who have darker tints due to medical conditions must carry proper proof, such as a signed document from a doctor. This proof must show the need for special tint and be available at all times if stopped by law enforcement.
Window Tinting Laws in Tennessee
Tennessee law uses Visible Light Transmission (VLT) to measure how dark window tint can be. VLT is the percentage of light that passes through both the window and tint film.
These rules apply to all vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and trucks.
Passenger Cars and Station Wagons
For sedans, the windshield must allow over 70% of light, with darker tint allowed only above the AS-1 line, which is marked by the manufacturer.
The front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window must all allow more than 35% of light in. This ensures that other drivers and police can see inside if needed and that drivers have a clear view of the road.
Multi-Purpose Vehicles (SUVs, Vans, RVs)
SUVs and vans must follow the same rules as sedans. The windshield must allow more than 70% of light, with darker tint permitted only above the AS-1 line.
The front and rear side windows and rear window must each allow over 35% of light. These rules apply no matter the size or style of the vehicle, so all drivers have equal safety standards.
Tennessee Tint Law 2025: Sedans, SUVs, Trucks Compared
| Vehicle Type | Front Windshield | Front Side Windows | Rear Side Windows | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedans | >70% VLT (Any tint allowed above AS-1 line) | ≥35% VLT | ≥35% VLT | ≥35% VLT |
| SUVs/Vans | >70% VLT (Any tint allowed above AS-1 line) | ≥35% VLT | ≥35% VLT | ≥35% VLT |
| Trucks | >70% VLT (Any tint allowed above AS-1 line) | ≥35% VLT | ≥35% VLT* | ≥35% VLT* |
Note: Trucks with tinted rear windows must have dual side mirrors.
Window Tint Reflection in Tennessee (2025)
In Tennessee, window tint helps reduce glare, heat, and sunlight while driving. But tint that looks too shiny or metallic is not allowed. The law says all vehicle windows must not have a mirrored or metallic appearance to keep roads safe and reduce glare for other drivers.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front Side Windows: The tint must not be metallic or mirror-like. It should look normal and not shine like a mirror.
- Back Side Windows: These windows also cannot have reflective or shiny tint. Use a standard, non-reflective film to stay legal.
Tint Reflection for SUVs and Vans
- Front Side Windows: Just like sedans, no metallic or mirrored tint is allowed on the front side windows of SUVs and vans.
- Back Side Windows: Even though you can use darker tint, the film must still not be reflective or metallic in appearance.
Other Tennessee Window Tint Rules and Regulations
Side Mirrors
Tennessee does not have any special mirror rules. You are not required to have dual side mirrors, even if the rear window is tinted.
Restricted Colors
Tennessee does not ban any tint colors. You are allowed to use any color, including red, amber, and blue, but it’s still smart to avoid extreme shades that may distract other drivers or law enforcement.
Certificates
Tint film manufacturers do not need to certify their products for use in Tennessee. However, you should still make sure your installer uses safe and tested film that meets state visibility laws.
Stickers
Tennessee law requires a legal tint identification sticker. This sticker must be placed between the film and glass on the driver’s side window. It proves your tint is installed correctly and follows Tennessee law. Not having the sticker could lead to fines or inspection problems.
Legal Window Tint Certificates in Tennessee
In Tennessee, all cars with aftermarket window tint must have a legal tint compliance sticker. This sticker must be placed between the tint film and the glass on the driver’s side window. The label must include the name and contact information of the tint installer and clearly state:
“Complies with Tennessee Code Annotated, § 55-9-107.”
While film manufacturers and retailers are not required to certify their tint in Tennessee, it is the vehicle owner’s responsibility to make sure this sticker is applied. Without it, your tint may be considered illegal, even if it meets the VLT limit.
Before tinting your vehicle:
- Confirm that your installer provides this state-compliant sticker.
- Double-check the film does not have a reflective or metallic appearance.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Tennessee
Tennessee allows medical exemptions for drivers who need darker tint due to health conditions. If you suffer from photosensitivity, skin conditions, or other medical problems made worse by sunlight or UV exposure, you can qualify for this exemption.
To receive this benefit:
- Get a signed letter or prescription from a licensed physician explaining your condition.
- Keep the document in your glove compartment at all times.
- Be ready to show it to law enforcement if you are stopped.
Even with a medical exemption, the tint must not be reflective, and the sticker requirement still applies. Exemptions allow darker VLT than the standard 35%, but not mirrored or metallic films.
Medical Exemption Application Flowchart:
Start ➡️ Doctor Documentation ➡️ Get Medical Note ➡️ Install Legal Tint ➡️ Apply Sticker ➡️ Carry Exemption Proof
Window Tint Violation Penalties in Tennessee
Tennessee takes illegal window tint seriously. If you’re pulled over for any reason, the officer can test your window tint on the spot using a portable device. If your tint blocks more light than allowed, you can be ticketed right away.
The cost of a window tint violation ranges from $100 to over $230 per offense, depending on the county and situation. If you are caught multiple times, you may face larger fines and possibly more serious penalties.
Compared to the cost of getting illegal tint removed and replaced (which usually ranges from $100 to $800 depending on the vehicle), it’s much cheaper and safer to stay legal from the start.
Risks of Illegal Window Tint in Tennessee
Illegal window tint can cause more problems than just a fine. In Tennessee, repeated violations can increase penalties, and a history of tint violations may also impact vehicle inspection results or insurance claims. If you’re in an accident and your tint is found to be illegal, your insurance company may reduce or deny payment.
Additionally, because police can test your tint during any routine stop, there is no way to “get away” with non-compliant film. Keeping your tint legal with the proper sticker and, if needed, medical exemption, helps you avoid stress, saves money, and keeps your record clean.
Common Mistakes to Avoid – Tennessee Tint Law 2025
Using tint darker than 35 percent on front windows
Tennessee law requires that front side windows allow at least 35 percent of visible light to pass through. Many drivers install film that goes below this limit, often by mistake or due to poor advice from non-certified installers.
Applying tint too low on the windshield
Only the top portion of the windshield, above the AS-1 line, may be tinted. Placing tint lower than this is illegal and may result in fines or failed inspections.
Assuming rear window tint rules are the same
Tennessee allows darker tint on the rear side and back windows, but the vehicle must have dual side mirrors for safety. Many forget this and apply film without checking.
Installing mirrored or reflective tint
Mirrored or metallic films are not allowed in Tennessee. They cause glare and safety risks for other drivers and may result in immediate ticketing.
Not checking the factory tint level
Some vehicles already have tinted windows from the factory. Adding more film without measuring the total Visible Light Transmission (VLT) can make the tint too dark.
Ignoring the medical exemption rules
Medical exemptions are allowed in Tennessee, but drivers must carry the official certificate. Without proof, law enforcement may treat the tint as illegal, even if medically necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions – Tennessee Tint Law 2025
What is the legal tint limit for front side windows in Tennessee?
Front side windows must let in more than 35 percent of visible light.
Can I tint my windshield in Tennessee?
Only the area above the AS-1 line may be tinted. Tinting below that line is not allowed.
Are rear window tint rules the same for all vehicles?
No. SUVs and trucks may have darker tint on rear windows, but the vehicle must have dual side mirrors to meet visibility requirements.
Is reflective tint allowed in Tennessee?
No. Reflective or mirrored films are not legal on any window in Tennessee.
Can I get a medical exemption for darker tint?
Yes. You may apply for a medical exemption with your doctor’s recommendation and receive a certificate from the state. You must keep this certificate in your car.
Will I get a ticket for illegal tint in Tennessee?
Yes. Illegal tint may result in fines, removal orders, or failed inspection reports.
Do I need a tint sticker in Tennessee?
Yes. Tennessee requires an official tint compliance sticker to be placed between the film and the glass on the driver’s side window.
Conclusion
Tennessee tint law is easy to follow if you know the rules. Front side windows must let in more than 35 percent of light, and windshield tint is only allowed above the AS-1 line. Using darker film, reflective tint, or skipping the compliance sticker can all lead to fines or failed inspections.
If you need darker tint for health reasons, Tennessee allows medical exemptions. But you must carry the official approval in your car.
Before you tint your windows, check the law or talk to a certified installer. This small step can save you time, money, and legal trouble in the future.
Resources for Tennessee Drivers
Tennessee Tint Law Summary – TN Highway Patrol: https://www.tn.gov/safety
Tennessee Code § 55-9-107 – Window Tint Regulations: https://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/tncode
Medical Exemption Information and Application: https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/medical.html
Find Certified Tint Installers in Tennessee: CarKitAdvisor.com/tint-installers-tn
VLT Calculator Tool: CarKitAdvisor.com/vlt-checker
Printable Tennessee Tint Law Checklist (PDF): CarKitAdvisor.com/tn-tint-checklist