IL
Illinois Window Tint Laws (2026)
In Illinois, front side windows must let in at least 35% of light; back side windows 35% VLT or lighter and the rear window 35% VLT or lighter. Windshield: top 6 inches only, non-reflective.
Reviewed September 14, 2026 against the sources listed below.
Sedans
| Windshield | Top 6 inches only, non-reflective |
|---|---|
| Front side windows | 35% vlt or lighter |
| Back side windows | 35% vlt or lighter |
| Rear window | 35% vlt or lighter |
SUVs, trucks and vans
| Windshield | Top 6 inches only, non-reflective |
|---|---|
| Front side windows | 50% vlt or lighter |
| Back side windows | Any darkness |
| Rear window | Any darkness |
Other rules
- Reflectivity, front side
- Not specified
- Reflectivity, back side
- Not specified
- Banned colors
- None named in the statute
- Medical exemption
- Yes. A physician's letter for conditions such as lupus, porokeratosis, albinism or light sensitivity after a brain injury; the vehicle gets special plates or plate stickers.
- Certification sticker
- Not required
- Side mirrors if the rear is tinted
- Both required
- Penalty
- Petty offense, $50 to $500; a repeat violation is a Class C misdemeanor, $100 to $500, and the court orders the tint removed.
- Notes
- 5% tolerance. On sedans the front side windows may be tinted only when every window behind the driver is also at least 35%. Vans, trucks and SUVs may run the front sides at 50% with the rear as dark as the owner likes.
Window tint shops in Illinois
Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in Illinois?
35% on front side windows, 35% on back side windows and 35% on the rear window, for sedans.
Is 20% tint legal in Illinois?
No. Illinois does not allow 20% tint on any window. Front side windows need 35% or lighter.
Is 35% tint legal in Illinois?
Yes, 35% tint is legal on every window in Illinois.
Does Illinois allow a medical exemption for window tint?
Yes. A physician's letter for conditions such as lupus, porokeratosis, albinism or light sensitivity after a brain injury; the vehicle gets special plates or plate stickers.