Wisconsin 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type
Car window tinting in Wisconsin is regulated to balance comfort and safety by limiting how dark your tint can be on different windows.
Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Wisconsin (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line (usually near the top of the windshield).
- Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 50% visible light transmission (VLT).
- Back Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% VLT.
- Rear Window: Tint must allow more than 35% VLT.
Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Wisconsin (2025)
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
- Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 50% VLT.
- Back Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% VLT.
- Rear Window: Tint must allow more than 35% VLT.
Understanding Wisconsin Window Tint Law
Driving in Wisconsin means dealing with bright sun and snow glare. Window tint helps with comfort, but there are legal limits. The Wisconsin window tint law 2025 tells you how dark your tint can be. Too dark, and you could face fines or traffic stops.
Your insurance can be affected if your tint is illegal. Claims might get denied, or premiums could rise. Following the Wisconsin car tint legal limits protects you financially.
Know the Wisconsin window tint percentage 2025 before tinting your windows. This will keep you legal and comfortable all year.
Why Compliance with Wisconsin Tint Laws Matters
Driving in Wisconsin’s varying weather can be easier and safer with window tint, as it helps reduce glare and heat. However, tint that is too dark can block your vision, especially at night. Following Wisconsin’s tint laws ensures you drive safely and comfortably every day.
Beyond safety, Wisconsin tint laws affect you legally. Police often check for illegal tint during traffic stops. If your windows are too dark, you might face fines and added hassle. Keeping your tint legal helps you avoid these problems and drives stress-free.
Your insurance coverage also depends on having legal tint. Illegal tint could cause denied claims or higher premiums. Staying within Wisconsin’s tint limits protects your insurance, saves money, and keeps you confident on the road.
What Changed in Wisconsin Tinting Law Recently?
Wisconsin maintains clear tinting rules but has emphasized enforcement. Officers now use improved tools to check tint darkness accurately. This reduces the chances of illegal tint going unnoticed.
Additionally, medical exemptions for darker tint remain limited and require proper documentation from a licensed doctor. Drivers must keep proof of exemption in the vehicle to avoid citations during stops or inspections.
Window Tinting Laws in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s window tint laws are designed to maintain driver visibility and safety. These rules apply to all vehicle types, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and trucks.
Passenger Cars and Station Wagons
For passenger cars, non-reflective tint is allowed only above the AS-1 line on the windshield. Front side windows must let in more than 50% of visible light to ensure clear visibility.
Back side windows and the rear windshield must allow more than 35% of light in. Reflective or mirrored tint is not allowed on any window.
Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles
SUVs, vans, and trucks follow similar rules for the windshield and front side windows, with tint allowed only above the AS-1 line on the windshield and 50% VLT on front windows.
For rear side windows and rear windshield, any darkness is permitted. However, if the rear window is tinted, dual side mirrors may be required for proper rear visibility.
To determine which rules apply to your vehicle, check the label inside the driver’s side door. It identifies whether your vehicle is a passenger car or a multi-purpose vehicle, which influences the tint limits.
Wisconsin Tint Law 2025: Sedans, SUVs, Trucks Compared
| Vehicle Type | Front Windshield | Front Side Windows | Rear Side Windows | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedans | Tint allowed above AS-1 line* | ≥50% VLT | ≥35% VLT | ≥35% VLT |
| SUVs/Vans | Tint allowed above AS-1 line* | ≥50% VLT | ≥35% VLT | ≥35% VLT |
| Trucks | Tint allowed above AS-1 line* | ≥50% VLT | No limit | No limit |
*Note: Tinting is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line on the windshield.
Important: Trucks with tinted rear windows have no restrictions on rear side and rear window tint darkness. However, check local regulations to ensure compliance with mirror requirements and visibility.
Window Tint Reflection in Wisconsin
Wisconsin allows window tint that can reflect incoming light to reduce glare and heat, but there are limits to how reflective the tint can be. The goal is to keep the driver and others safe by preventing excessive glare from shiny or mirror-like tints.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front Side Windows: The tint film must not be reflective. It cannot have a mirror-like or shiny finish that reflects more light than normal glass.
- Back Side Windows: The same non-reflective rule applies. Mirror-like or shiny finishes are not allowed.
- Front Side Windows: The tint film must remain non-reflective, keeping reflection to the same level as regular glass.
- Back Side Windows: Reflective or metallic tints are not permitted. Even though tint darkness may be more flexible here, the film cannot reflect excessive light.
Other Wisconsin Window Tint Rules and Regulations
Side Mirror
If your vehicle’s rear window is tinted below 60% Visible Light Transmission (VLT), you must have dual side mirrors that work properly to provide rear visibility.
Restricted Colors
Wisconsin does not restrict any tint colors. You can choose any color, as long as the tint meets other state rules on darkness and reflectivity.
Certificates
Film manufacturers and installers are not required to certify their tint films as meeting Wisconsin’s laws. It is your responsibility as the vehicle owner to ensure your tint complies with state regulations.
Stickers
Wisconsin does not require a compliance sticker on tinted windows. However, having one can help avoid questions during inspections or police stops.
Legal Window Tint Certificates in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, drivers are not required to have a compliance sticker or certificate proving their window tint is legal. Unlike some states, Wisconsin does not mandate any label between the tint and glass. However, it is important to confirm with your tint installer that the film they use meets Wisconsin’s legal requirements to avoid fines.
Manufacturers, sellers, and installers are not required to certify that their tint films comply with state laws. This means the vehicle owner must take responsibility to ensure the tint is legal and does not exceed allowed limits. Proper verification helps prevent trouble during vehicle inspections or traffic stops.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Wisconsin
Wisconsin allows medical exemptions for window tint that is darker than usual. If you have a health condition like photosensitivity, lupus, or other skin issues worsened by sunlight, you may qualify to use darker tint on side or rear windows.
To get this exemption, you must get a signed letter from a licensed doctor explaining your medical need for darker tint. Keep this letter in your vehicle at all times and be ready to show it if stopped by police or during inspections. Medical exemptions protect your health while keeping you within the law.
Window Tint Violation Penalties in Wisconsin
If your window tint violates Wisconsin laws, you may get a ticket with fines up to $175 per violation. Unlike some states, Wisconsin does not offer “fix-it tickets” that can be dismissed after removing illegal tint, so each ticket means a real cost.
Police use handheld devices to test the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) of your tint at any traffic stop. This makes it risky to drive with illegal tint. Repeated violations can quickly add up, costing you more money and stress. Getting legal tint installed from the start is the safest choice.
Risks of Illegal Window Tint in Wisconsin
Illegal window tint can cause your vehicle to fail inspections and delay registration renewal. Police use devices to check tint darkness, and tickets can be costly, with no “fix-it” option to avoid fines. Repeated offenses increase penalties.
Illegal tint may also affect insurance claims if reduced visibility contributes to an accident. Fixing tint issues early saves money and stress while keeping you safe and legal on the road.
Common Mistakes to Avoid – Wisconsin Tint Law 2025
Tinting front side windows too dark
Wisconsin requires that front side windows allow at least 70 percent of visible light to pass through. Many drivers apply darker tint films without measuring, which can lead to fines or failed inspections.
Tinting the windshield beyond the allowed strip
Only the top 4 inches of the windshield may be tinted in Wisconsin. Tinting below this strip is illegal and reduces visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.
Using reflective or mirrored tint
Reflective and mirrored tints are not permitted because they can cause glare and distract other drivers.
Not checking factory tint before adding film
Some vehicles come with factory-installed tint. Adding extra film without testing the total Visible Light Transmission (VLT) may make the tint darker than legal limits.
Ignoring rules for rear windows
Wisconsin allows darker tint on rear windows but only if the vehicle has dual side mirrors. Many drivers apply illegal tint without checking this requirement.
Failing to keep medical exemption paperwork
If you qualify for a medical exemption, you must carry the official documentation at all times. Failure to do so can result in citations even if the tint is legal under medical rules.
Frequently Asked Questions – Wisconsin Tint Law 2025
What is the legal tint limit for front side windows in Wisconsin?
Front side windows must allow at least 70 percent of visible light to pass.
Can I tint my windshield in Wisconsin?
Only the top 4 inches of the windshield may be tinted.
Are tint rules different for SUVs and trucks?
Yes. SUVs and trucks can have darker tint on rear windows, but front side window rules are the same for all vehicles.
Is reflective or mirrored tint allowed in Wisconsin?
No. Reflective or mirrored films are prohibited on all windows.
Can I get a medical exemption for darker tint?
Yes. Drivers with medical conditions can apply for exemptions and must carry the official certificate when driving.
Will I be fined for illegal tint in Wisconsin?
Yes. Illegal tint can lead to fines, inspection failures, and orders to remove the film.
Do I need a tint compliance sticker in Wisconsin?
Yes. A compliance sticker must be displayed on the driver’s side window to show that the tint meets state regulations.
Conclusion
Following Wisconsin’s window tint laws is crucial for avoiding fines and keeping your vehicle safe and legal on the road. Front side windows must let in at least 70 percent of visible light, and only the top four inches of the windshield may be tinted. Using reflective film or missing the required compliance sticker can cause inspection failures and costly tickets.
If you need darker tint for health reasons, apply for a medical exemption and always carry the official certificate in your car. Before applying tint, consult the latest rules or speak with a certified installer to ensure your film meets Wisconsin standards.
Understanding and following the law now can save you time, money, and frustration later.
Resources for Wisconsin Drivers
Wisconsin DMV Window Tint Regulations: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/home.aspx
Wisconsin Statutes § 347.48 – Window Tinting: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/347/48
Medical Exemption Information: https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/dmv/license-drvs/medical.aspx
Find Certified Tint Installers in Wisconsin: Carkitadvisor.com/tint-installers-wi
Window Tint VLT Calculator Tool: Carkitadvisor.com/vlt-checker
Printable Wisconsin Tint Law Checklist (PDF): Carkitadvisor.com/wi-tint-checklist