Wisconsin DOT Window Tint Percentage, Legal Limits & Insurance Guide

Key Points

• Front side windows in must allow more than 50% light transmission.
• Rear side windows and the rear window must allow more than 35% light transmission.
• Reflective tint is not allowed on both front and back side windows.
• Medical exemptions are available but still require front windows to allow more than 50% light.
• Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window tint is below 60% VLT.

Wisconsin DOT Window Tint Percentage, Legal Limits & Insurance Guide

If you’re considering tinting your car windows in Wisconsin, it’s essential to be aware of the legal limits and requirements. Whether you’re looking to reduce glare, increase your privacy, or just give your ride a sleek look, knowing these laws can help you avoid fines and penalties.

Fast Facts About Wisconsin’s Window Tinting Laws

Wisconsin has particular regulations about how dark you can tint your vehicle’s windows. The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage is the key factor here. The VLT percentage indicates the amount of light that can come through the tinted windows. Let’s look at the details:

• Front side windows: Need to allow more than 50% of light in.
• Rear side windows and rear window: Need to allow more than 35% of light in.
• Windshield: Only non-reflective tint is allowed above the AS-1 line.

Importance of Compliance

Adhering to these rules is not just about evading a fine. It’s also about ensuring safety. Darker tints can obstruct your vision of other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles, especially at night. In addition to that, non-compliant tints can provide law enforcement a reason to stop you, which is something nobody wants.

Understanding Tint Percentages and Legal Limits

It’s important to be aware of the specific tint percentages and legal limits. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand more about why having your car windows tinted too dark is illegal in Wisconsin.

Windshield Tint Rules

Wisconsin law is explicit when it comes to tinting windshields. Only non-reflective tint is permitted, and it must be applied above the AS-1 line. The AS-1 line is a mark that can be found on most vehicle windshields and it shows the upper part of the windshield where tinting is allowed.

Front Side Windows Tinting Rules

The law requires the front side windows to let in more than 50% of light. This means you can have a tint, but it can’t be too dark. The purpose of this rule is to make sure drivers can clearly see their surroundings, which is essential for safe driving.

Permissible Tint for Rear Side Windows

The regulations for the rear side windows are a bit more forgiving. They must permit over 35% of light to come through. This gives more leeway for those desiring additional privacy or to lessen the sun’s brightness for back seat passengers.

Regulations on Rear Window Tint

Just like the back side windows, the rear window must also let in more than 35% of light. But, if the tint is less than 60% VLT, dual side mirrors are necessary. This makes sure that drivers can still see well enough, especially when backing up or switching lanes.

More Window Tinting Rules

In addition to VLT percentages, there are other key rules you should know.

Forbidden Tint Shades

Wisconsin has some strict rules when it comes to tint colors. The state does not allow red, yellow, or amber tints. This is because they can be distracting and can cause visibility issues for other drivers. For more information, you can read about why having your car windows tinted too dark is illegal in Wisconsin.

Restrictions on Reflective Tints

While reflective tint may be visually appealing, it is not legal in the state of Wisconsin. Reflective tints can cause glare, which can lead to distractions and hazards for other drivers. As a result, Wisconsin law forbids the use of reflective tints on both front and back side windows. Always ensure that your chosen tint is non-reflective in order to be in compliance with state laws.

Requirements for Side Mirrors

Should you choose to have a darker tint on your back window—specifically less than 60% VLT—Wisconsin law mandates that you have two side mirrors. These mirrors are essential for maintaining good visibility, which is crucial for safe driving. It’s a small addition, but it can significantly improve your overall safety while driving.

Penalties and Enforcement

• Fines for non-compliance can range from $150 to $200.
• Repeat offenders may face higher fines and additional penalties.
• Police officers use specialized tools to measure the VLT of your windows.

Violating Wisconsin’s tint laws can result in fines and other penalties. The fines for having illegal tint can range from $150 to $200. If you’re a repeat offender, you could face even higher fines and additional penalties. Therefore, it’s crucial to adhere to the regulations to avoid these unnecessary costs.

Penalties for Non-Adherence

Being apprehended with unlawful window tint can be a major inconvenience, not just financially. In addition to the penalties, you may also be mandated to eliminate the tint and demonstrate that your vehicle now adheres to the law. This can be both laborious and expensive. Moreover, having a history of non-adherence can impact your insurance premiums, making it pricier to keep your coverage.

How Police Officers Determine Tint Percentage

Law enforcement officers use a device known as a tint meter to determine the VLT of your car windows. The device is placed on the window and measures the amount of light that is able to pass through. If your window tint does not meet the legal standards, you may be stopped and ticketed. The process is simple and the devices are very accurate, leaving little room for discrepancies.

Medical Exceptions

Wisconsin does permit medical exceptions for window tinting. Even with an exception, there are still restrictions on how dark your tint can be.

Requirements for Medical Exemption

In order to be eligible for a medical exemption, you must have a documented medical condition that requires you to have a darker window tint. This documentation must be provided by a licensed physician. Conditions such as lupus or other skin conditions that are worsened by sunlight are usually deemed as valid reasons for an exemption.

How to Apply

There are several steps to applying for a medical exemption:

• See a licensed doctor to get a written statement of your medical condition.
• Give the written statement to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT).
• Hold off on putting the tint on your windows until the DOT gives you the go-ahead.

Following these steps to the letter is crucial to making sure your exemption is legal and acknowledged by the police.

Showing Your Medical Authorization Sticker

After getting your medical exemption approved, you need to show a medical authorization sticker on your car. You should put this sticker somewhere where it can be easily seen, like the bottom corner of the windshield. This tells police that your tint is legal because of medical reasons. This can help prevent any confusion if you get stopped.

How Tinted Windows Affect Insurance and Safety

There are several ways that window tinting can affect your insurance and safety. It’s crucial to be aware of these factors when making decisions.

Telling Your Insurance Company

It’s a smart move to let your insurance company know when you tint your windows. Some insurance companies have specific rules about window tinting. By telling them, you make sure you’re completely covered and avoid any problems if you have to file a claim.

Why Safety Matters

Tinted windows can be beneficial, as they can reduce glare and heat. However, if not done correctly, they can pose safety risks. Darker tints can reduce visibility, particularly at night, making it more difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. Therefore, it’s important to weigh the benefits of tinting against the potential safety risks.

Keeping Window Tinting Legal

After you’ve had your windows tinted, it’s crucial to keep the tinting within legal limits to avoid any problems. Here are some suggestions for staying within the law.

Firstly, it’s a good idea to have your tinting checked on a regular basis. Tinting can deteriorate and become less opaque over time. Regular checks will ensure that your tinting remains within the legal limits. Secondly, choose a reputable installer who is knowledgeable about Wisconsin’s tinting laws. A professional installer will ensure that your tinting complies with all legal requirements and will provide you with documentation to prove it.

Safety Precautions

While tinted windows offer advantages such as glare reduction and car cooling, they also pose safety risks. Dark tints can diminish visibility, particularly at night, making it more difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other cars. As such, it’s vital to weigh the pros of tinting against the possible safety hazards.

Moreover, in the event of a car crash, first responders must be able to look inside your car to quickly evaluate the circumstances. Overly dark tints may make this difficult.

Keeping Your Tint Percentage Legal

After you’ve tinted your windows, it’s critical to ensure the tint remains within legal limits to prevent any problems with the police. Here are some suggestions to help you remain within the law:

Keeping Up with Tint Maintenance

Like anything else, tints can wear down and change in opacity over time. Keeping a regular eye on your tint will make sure it stays within the legal limits. You can use a tint meter to check the VLT of your windows or have a professional do it. Staying on top of maintenance will help you avoid fines and keep your vehicle street-legal.

Picking a Trustworthy Tinting Professional

It’s important to choose a trustworthy professional to install your window tint to ensure it complies with all legal standards. A professional tinting service will be knowledgeable about Wisconsin’s tint laws and will apply the tint properly. They can also provide paperwork to verify that your tint is legal, which can come in handy if you ever need to provide evidence to the police or your insurer.

Common Questions

Here are some questions that are often asked about Wisconsin’s window tint laws to help you stay informed and compliant.

What is the darkest tint that is legal in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, the darkest legal tint for front side windows is 50% VLT, which means the windows must let in more than 50% of light. The limit for rear side windows and the rear window is 35% VLT. The windshield can only have non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line.

Is it possible for me to get tinted windows if I have a medical condition?

Yes, in Wisconsin, window tinting is allowed for medical exemptions. However, even with an exemption, front side windows must still allow more than 50% light transmission. You are required to get documentation from a licensed physician and submit it to the Wisconsin DOT for approval. Once approved, you’ll receive a medical authorization sticker to display on your vehicle.

What method do cops use to test the tint percentage?

Law enforcement officers use a specific tool known as a tint meter to determine the VLT of your vehicle’s windows. This tool is placed on the window to gauge the amount of light that can pass through. If the tint on your windows is found to be illegal, you may be stopped and given a ticket.

Will window tinting impact my insurance?

Yes, window tinting can have an impact on your insurance, particularly if it does not adhere to state regulations. It is recommended that you notify your insurance company when you tint your windows. Certain insurance companies may have particular policies about window tinting, and notifying them guarantees that you are completely insured and will not encounter any problems if you need to file a claim.

Does Wisconsin have unique tint rules for SUVs and vans?

Yes, the same VLT percentages apply to SUVs and vans as they do to other vehicles. Front side windows must allow more than 50% light transmission, and rear side windows and the rear window must allow more than 35% light transmission. The windshield can only have non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line.

Overview of Wisconsin’s Window Tint Regulations

Sources

• Wisconsin Tinting Laws
• Wisconsin Establishes Restrictions on Tinted Car Windows
• Wisconsin Car Tint Law