Michigan tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | No film below the top 4 inches |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | Any darkness |
| Rear window | Any darkness |
| Windshield | Top 4 inches only |
| Reflectivity | Under 35% on rear windows; no silver or gold film |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Same as cars |
Percentages are the minimum visible light transmission with the film installed, including the factory glass. A lower number means darker tint.
Is 5%, 20%, 35% or 50% tint legal in Michigan?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Michigan. Factory glass blocks some light, so a film reads darker once it's installed.
| Film rating | Front side windows | Back side windows | Rear window |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 15% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 20% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 35% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 50% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 70% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
'Likely too dark once installed' means the film rating meets the limit, but on typical factory glass the combined reading usually falls under it. Meter the window to be sure.
Choosing a film that stays legal
Assume factory side glass passes about 80% of light.
- Front side windows: No aftermarket film allowed
- Back side windows: Any film
- Rear window: Any film
Factory privacy glass on many SUVs already reads well under 30%, so any film added over it will read darker still. Always meter after the install.
Fines and penalties
Michigan's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.
Medical exemptions
Carry a letter signed by a physician or optometrist stating the tint is medically necessary.
The law
Michigan's tint rules are set by MCL § 257.709. Read the source
This page is a reference for drivers and installers, not legal advice. Enforcement can vary by city and county.
Frequently asked questions
How dark can you legally tint your windows in Michigan?
On a sedan, front side windows: No film below the top 4 inches. Back side windows: Any darkness. Rear window: Any darkness.
Is 20% tint legal in Michigan?
Front: Not legal. Back: Legal. Rear: Legal with mirrors on both sides. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Michigan?
Front: Not legal. Back: Legal. Rear: Legal with mirrors on both sides. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Michigan?
Top 4 inches only
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Michigan?
Same as cars
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Michigan?
Carry a letter signed by a physician or optometrist stating the tint is medically necessary.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: