Wisconsin DMV Tint Laws: Window Percentage, Legal Standards & Insurance Overview

Key Points

• Only non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line is allowed for windshield tinting in .
• More than 50% of light must be able to pass through the front side windows.
• More than 35% of light must be able to enter through the back side and rear windows.
• There are no color restrictions for window tints in Wisconsin.
• Fines and increased insurance premiums can result from violating tint laws.

Overview of Wisconsin DMV Tint Laws: Window Percentage, Legal Standards & Insurance

Car enthusiasts need to understand Wisconsin’s window tint laws. These laws ensure visibility and safety for drivers on the road. In this article, I will walk you through the main points of Wisconsin’s DMV tint laws, including the window percentage, legal standards, and the implications for insurance.

How Dark Can Your Window Tint Be?

The darkness of your window tint is determined by how much visible light can pass through the window. This is known as Visible Light Transmission (VLT). Wisconsin has specific laws that dictate the VLT percentage for different windows on your car.

Rules for Windshield Tinting

In Wisconsin, you can only apply non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line that the manufacturer has marked on the windshield. This means you can’t tint the entire windshield. The AS-1 line is typically marked on the windshield and is about 5 inches down from the top.

“Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.”

Rules for Tinting Front Side Windows

The front side windows must allow over 50% of light. This guarantees drivers a clear view of their surroundings, particularly in the dark or during adverse weather conditions.

For instance, if your front side windows are excessively tinted, you may have difficulty seeing pedestrians or other cars. As a result, it’s crucial to comply with this rule to prevent accidents and penalties.

Rear Side Window Tint Rules

The rear side windows can be darker than the front side windows. Wisconsin law dictates that these windows must let in more than 35% of light, ensuring a balance between privacy and visibility.

Rear Window Tinting Rules

Like the back side windows, the rear window must allow over 35% light. You must also have dual side mirrors if you have a rear window tinted under 60% VLT. For more details, you can check out the Michigan SOS tint laws.

“Rear Window: Must allow more than 35% of light in. Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.”

General Tint Regulations

In addition to the specific VLT percentages, Wisconsin has other rules for window tints:

• There are no restrictions on the color of the tint.
• A 3% variance is allowed in the VLT measurements.
• Film manufacturers don’t need to certify the tint films they sell in Wisconsin.
• No stickers are required to identify legal tinting.

Legal Standards and Compliance

Adhering to these tint laws is not just about avoiding fines; it’s about ensuring safety for yourself and others on the road. Let’s explore the legal standards and how to stay compliant.

Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Requirements

Visible Light Transmission (VLT) is the main standard used to determine how much light can pass through your window tint. In Wisconsin, the specific VLT percentages are:

Side Mirror Requirements

If the tint on your rear window is darker than 60% VLT, you must have dual-side mirrors. This ensures that you can still see clearly behind you, even with a heavily tinted rear window.

Consequences for Not Following the Rules

You may face various penalties if you do not follow Wisconsin’s tint laws. These penalties are designed to ensure all drivers have the necessary level of visibility, which is key to keeping the roads safe.

What Happens If You Break the Tint Laws?

Getting caught with illegal window tint can lead to many repercussions. To start, a police officer could stop you. During this stop, the officer will probably use a tint meter to check the VLT of your windows.

If your tint doesn’t meet the legal requirements, you might be ticketed. The fine for a first offense is typically about $175. You might also have to remove the illegal tint and inspect your car to ensure it’s up to code.

Penalties and Legal Consequences

Penalties for breaking tint laws can vary based on the seriousness and number of the offenses. A first-time violation may result in a fine of approximately $175. However, repeated offenses may result in increased fines and other legal consequences.

Not only could you be fined, but you could also get points on your driving record. If you get too many points, your insurance rates could increase, and you could even lose your license.

Effect on Car Insurance Premiums

Illegal window tinting can also affect your car insurance premiums. Insurers see traffic violations as signs of risk-taking behavior. As a result, if you have a tinting violation on your record, your insurance company may raise your rates.

Additionally, if you’re in a crash and it’s found that your illegal tint played a role in the accident, your insurance provider may deny coverage for the damages. This could leave you on the hook for repair costs and medical expenses.

Staying on the Right Side of the Law

Staying compliant with Wisconsin’s tint laws is crucial to avoiding fines and staying safe. Here are some steps you can follow to stay compliant.

Selecting a Certified Tint Installer

One of the most effective methods to guarantee compliance with the law is to have your tint applied by a certified professional. Certified installers are well-versed in state laws and will use tint films that adhere to legal requirements. They can also supply you with paperwork that verifies the legality of your tint.

For example, many auto shops in Wisconsin offer tinting services that comply with state regulations. Choosing a reputable installer can save you the trouble of dealing with illegal tint.

Choosing the Right Tint Films

When tinting your windows in Wisconsin, it’s important to choose a tint film that adheres to the state’s VLT regulations. Always check the VLT rating before buying a tint film. You can usually find this information on the product’s packaging or directly from the manufacturer. For more details on regulations, you can refer to the Washington DOL tint laws for comparison.

Moreover, you might want to ask your installer to give you a certificate of compliance. This certificate could come in handy if law enforcement ever questions you about your tint.

Regular Check-ups and Maintenance

It’s important to regularly check your window tint to ensure you’re following state laws. Tint films can wear down or peel over time, affecting their VLT rating. By checking your tint regularly, you can catch any issues before they become problematic.

When you see wear and tear or damage to your tint, it’s a good idea to get it fixed or replaced by an expert. This will ensure that your tint stays within the legal limits and keeps working properly.

Moreover, maintaining clean windows can enhance visibility and lessen the chances of being stopped for a tint violation. Unclean windows can make your tint seem darker than it is.

Here’s the human content:

• Regularly check your tint for any signs of damage or wear.
• If you notice any problems, have them fixed by a certified professional.
• Keep your windows clean to ensure you can see clearly.

Reference:

https://tintboyz.com/wi-tint-laws

How Tinting Affects Insurance

The tint on your windows can greatly affect your car insurance. It’s crucial to know how your tint impacts your insurance policy and what you can do to ensure coverage.

Thoughts on Insurance Policies

Letting your insurance company know about your tinted windows is crucial. Some insurance companies have particular policies about window tint. If you don’t disclose this information, they might deny your claims.

Furthermore, if your tint is illegal, your insurance provider may raise your rates or terminate your coverage. So, always ensure your tint is under state regulations and that your insurance company is informed.

Telling Your Insurance Company About Your Window Tinting

Here’s how to keep your insurance company in the loop about your window tinting:

• Let your insurance company know about your tinted windows.
• Give them paperwork that shows your tint is legal.
• Change your policy to show any changes made to your car.

Keeping your insurance company in the loop will help ensure that your policy is still good and that you’re covered if you have a wreck. For more details, refer to Massachusetts RMV tint laws.

How Window Tint Affects Your Auto Insurance

Window tint can greatly affect your car insurance. It’s crucial to know how your tint can affect your policy and what you can do to ensure coverage.

Insurance Policy Considerations

It’s important to let your insurance company know if you decide to tint your windows. Some insurance companies have specific policies about window tinting; if you don’t tell them, they might not cover your claims.

• Notify your insurance company about your window tint.
• Supply paperwork that shows your tint complies with the law.
• Modify your policy to include any alterations to your car.

Maintaining open communication with your insurer guarantees that your policy stays active and you’re protected if an accident occurs.

Informing Your Insurance Company About Window Tinting

Here are some guidelines to prevent any problems with your insurance:

• Inform your insurer about your window tinting.
• Provide documentation proving that your tint meets legal standards.
• Update your policy to reflect any changes to your vehicle.

Coverage for Tinted Windows

Most insurance policies will cover damage to tinted windows as long as the tint is legal and reported to the insurer. Your insurer may deny coverage for any related claims if your tint is illegal. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your tint complies with state laws and is properly documented with your insurance company.

Wrapping Up

It’s crucial to be aware of and follow Wisconsin’s window tint laws for your safety on the road and to avoid potential fines. If you stick to these rules, you can take advantage of window tinting without worrying about getting fined or increasing your insurance rates.

Key Takeaways

This is a brief recap of the main points we discussed in this article:

Adhering to these standards will ensure that your vehicle’s window tint is legal and meets Wisconsin’s regulations.

Conclusion

Window tinting can certainly elevate the aesthetic appeal and privacy of your vehicle. However, it is crucial to adhere to the legal boundaries. By grasping the tint laws in Wisconsin and ensuring that you are following them, you can relish the perks of having tinted windows without having to worry about getting fined or facing insurance problems. Always remember to opt for a certified installer, utilize approved tint films, and keep your insurance company updated about any changes made to your vehicle.

Commonly Asked Questions

Below are some typical questions about the window tint laws in Wisconsin:

What are the legal limits for tinting front-side windows in Wisconsin?

The law in Wisconsin requires front-side windows to let in more than 50% of light. This guarantees that drivers can see clearly and keep everyone safe. For more details, you can refer to Wisconsin’s car tinting laws.

Does Wisconsin offer any medical exemptions for window tinting?

Indeed, Wisconsin does offer medical exemptions for darker window tints. If you suffer from a medical condition that requires you to have extra protection from the sun, you can apply for an exemption. It is important to always have your exemption documentation on hand in case the police pull you over.

It’s important to know and abide by these rules to enjoy the perks of window tinting without breaking the law. Stay safe and drive with care!