Wisconsin tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 50% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | 35% |
| Rear window | 35% (mirrors on both sides if under 60%) |
| Windshield | Above the AS-1 line only (none if no AS-1 mark) |
| Reflectivity | Non-reflective film only |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Check statute |
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 Wisconsin?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Wisconsin. 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 | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed |
| 50% | Likely too dark once installed | Legal | Legal |
| 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: 45% film or lighter
- Rear window: 45% 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
Wisconsin's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.
Medical exemptions
With a physician's written statement (condition, temporary or permanent, and VIN) carried in the vehicle, front side windows can go to 35%. Remove the film when the vehicle is sold.
Meter tolerance
Wisconsin allows a tolerance of 3% when officers meter a window. A tolerance covers meter error. It isn't extra room to go darker.
The law
Wisconsin's tint rules are set by Wis. Admin. Code Trans § 305.32. 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 Wisconsin?
On a sedan, front side windows: 50%. Back side windows: 35%. Rear window: 35% (mirrors on both sides if under 60%).
Is 20% tint legal in Wisconsin?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Wisconsin?
Front: Not legal. Back: Likely too dark once installed. Rear: Likely too dark once installed. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Wisconsin?
Above the AS-1 line only (none if no AS-1 mark)
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Wisconsin?
With a physician's written statement (condition, temporary or permanent, and VIN) carried in the vehicle, front side windows can go to 35%. Remove the film when the vehicle is sold.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: