So You Want to Tint Your Windows in Illinois: A Guide for the Chic and the Legal
Let's face it, Illinois summers can be brutal. The sun beats down like a spotlight, turning your car into a rolling sauna. Window tinting seems like the perfect solution, but before you go all Michael Jackson on your ride, there are some legal hoops to jump through. The good news? You can absolutely tint your front windows, but there are a few quirks to the Illinois law that could have you looking more like a zebra than a fashion icon if you're not careful.
 |
| Can Front Windows Be Tinted In Illinois |
The Great Tint Divide: Cars vs. SUVs (and Minivans, Don't Worry, We See You)
Here's the gist: Illinois loves its SUVs (and apparently minivans). The law treats these two types of vehicles a little differently than your standard sedan.
- Cars:
- Front side windows: Gotta let in at least 35% of that glorious sunshine. That means you can still achieve a nice level of tint, but it won't be limo-level darkness.
- Back side and rear windows: Party time! Any darkness is allowed for these windows. Go wild (but maybe not too wild, you still gotta see out of there).
- SUVs and Minivans:
- Front side windows: You get a bit more wiggle room here. As long as at least 50% of the light gets through, you're good to go.
- Back side and rear windows: Same as cars, go nuts!
Important Note: Reflectivity is a no-no for all windows, front and back. Don't blind oncoming traffic with a disco ball effect on wheels.
The Art of the Tint: How Dark is Too Dark?
This is where things get a little technical. Window tint darkness is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT). The higher the VLT percentage, the more light gets through. So, for those 35% and 50% minimums we mentioned earlier, that's the amount of light that needs to be making it through your tinted windows.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Here's a handy cheat sheet:
- Legal: 35% VLT (cars) & 50% VLT (SUVs/Minivans) for front side windows
- Too Dark: Anything below 35% VLT (cars) & 50% VLT (SUVs/Minivans) for front side windows
- Party Time: Any VLT for back side and rear windows (both cars and SUVs/Minivans)
Pro Tip: Get a certificate from your tint shop showing the VLT percentage of your windows. This can be a lifesaver if you get pulled over by a fashion-forward police officer with a keen eye for illegal window tinting.
FAQ: Tinting Like a Pro
How to find a good tint shop?
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
Ask around! Look for recommendations from friends, family, or even that cool car club you follow. A reputable shop will use high-quality film, explain the law clearly, and give you a warranty on their work.
How much does it cost to get my windows tinted?
 |
Prices vary depending on the type of car, the quality of the film, and the shop itself. Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400.
QuickTip: Slow down if the pace feels too fast.
How to take care of tinted windows?
Easy! Avoid rolling down your windows for a few days after the tint is applied. Once cured, treat them like any other window - clean them with a mild soap and water solution.
How to tell if my windows are already tinted?
QuickTip: Go back if you lost the thread.
There are a few ways. You can hold a white piece of paper up to the window at night and see how easily you can see it. Or, take your car to a tint shop and have them check the VLT percentage.
How to avoid getting a ticket for illegal window tint?
Simple: follow the law! Make sure your front side windows meet the minimum VLT requirements.
 |
