Minnesota tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 50% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | 50% |
| Rear window | 50% |
| Windshield | No tint allowed |
| Reflectivity | 20% max; no mirrored finish |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Pickup rear windows and van windows behind the driver are exempt |
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 Minnesota?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Minnesota. 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 | Not legal | Not legal |
| 15% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 20% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 35% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 50% | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed |
| 70% | Legal | Legal | Legal |
'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: 65% film or lighter
- Back side windows: 65% film or lighter
- Rear window: 65% film or lighter
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
Selling or applying illegal tint as a business is a misdemeanor.
Medical exemptions
Carry a prescription or physician's statement listing the minimum light transmittance needed. It expires within 2 years and, since 2025, must say whether the condition is temporary or permanent.
Meter tolerance
Minnesota allows a tolerance of 3% when officers meter a window. A tolerance covers meter error. It isn't extra room to go darker.
For Minnesota tint shops
Film must carry a permanent marking showing its light transmittance and reflectance.
Law history
- : Medical prescriptions must state whether the condition is temporary or permanent.
The law
Minnesota's tint rules are set by Minn. Stat. § 169.71. 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 Minnesota?
On a sedan, front side windows: 50%. Back side windows: 50%. Rear window: 50%.
Is 20% tint legal in Minnesota?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Minnesota?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Minnesota?
No tint allowed
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Minnesota?
Pickup rear windows and van windows behind the driver are exempt
What is the fine for illegal tint in Minnesota?
Selling or applying illegal tint as a business is a misdemeanor.
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Minnesota?
Carry a prescription or physician's statement listing the minimum light transmittance needed. It expires within 2 years and, since 2025, must say whether the condition is temporary or permanent.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: