If you’re thinking about tinting your car windows and you live in Michigan, you’ve probably asked yourself: Is window tinting legal in Michigan? The short answer is yes, but with some clear rules you need to follow. At 586 Tint Factory in Clinton Township, we make sure your tint looks great and stays legal.
In this guide, we’ll break down Michigan’s tinting laws, cover common questions, and explain how to avoid tickets or inspection issues. We proudly serve Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Fraser, Roseville, Mount Clemens, Macomb, and other nearby cities in the Metro Detroit area.
Michigan Window Tint Laws: The Basics
Michigan’s laws are specific when it comes to how much tint you can legally have on your windows. Here are the basics:
Front Side Windows
- Must allow more than 35% of light in
- Reflective or mirrored tint is not allowed
Rear Side Windows
- Any darkness is allowed, but only for vehicles behind the driver (passenger cars, SUVs, etc.)
Rear Window
- Any level of tint is allowed, but you must have dual side mirrors if the rear window is tinted
Windshield Tint
- Only a 4-inch strip at the top of the windshield (also known as an “eyebrow”) is allowed
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Michigan
Michigan allows medical exemptions for darker tint, but it’s not automatic. You must:
- Carry a doctor’s note
- Present it if stopped by law enforcement
This exemption is useful for people with light sensitivity or certain medical conditions. Talk to your doctor and bring documentation if you want darker tints.
Common Mistakes That Lead to Tickets
Even with good intentions, some drivers get ticketed due to mistakes or misinformation. Here are a few common ones:
- Tint too dark on front side windows
- Tint applied to the entire windshield
- No side mirrors with rear tint
- Mirror-finish or reflective tints
The good news? All of this can be avoided by getting your tint installed by a pro who knows the law.
Can You Be Pulled Over for Tint in Michigan?
Yes. Police officers can pull you over if they believe your window tint doesn’t meet legal standards. They often use a tint meter to check the exact level of visible light transmission (VLT).
If you’re found to be in violation, it could result in:
- A civil infraction ticket
- A possible fine
- The need to remove or replace the illegal tint
How to Stay Legal and Protected
To keep your vehicle looking great and staying within the law:
- Know the rules (or have us explain them)
- Choose a professional installer who uses legal, high-quality film
- Get a written receipt with your VLT percentage
At 586 Tint Factory, we make sure you drive away with tint that not only looks amazing but meets all Michigan requirements.
Why Choose 586 Tint Factory?
- We use high-performance, legal tint films
- Expert installers who follow state regulations
- We serve Clinton Township, Sterling Heights, Fraser, Roseville, Mount Clemens, Macomb, and more
We’ve helped thousands of customers throughout Macomb County and Metro Detroit protect their cars from heat, UV rays, and prying eyes – all while staying compliant.
Other Services We Offer
In addition to window tinting, we also provide:
- Paint Protection Film (PPF)
- Ceramic Coatings
- Windshield and Glass Protection
If you’re thinking about any of these services, check out more on our website.
Visit or Contact Us
586 Tint Factory
44111 N Groesbeck Hwy
Clinton Twp, MI 48036
Phone: (586) 846-4697
Website: 586tintfactory.com
Want legal, professional window tinting done right? Call 586 Tint Factory today or stop by our shop in Clinton Township. We’ll help you choose the perfect tint that keeps your ride cool, private, and street legal. Book your appointment now and let the pros handle it!
