Minnesota's window tint rules are set by state law, but enforcement happens at traffic stops

Minnesota allows window tinting on your vehicle, but only within specific limits. The state law sets a darkness threshold measured in visible light transmission (VLT) — the percentage of light that passes through the tint. If your tint is darker than the law allows, you can receive a citation and be ordered to remove it. The rules differ depending on which windows you are tinting and what kind of vehicle you drive.

The law is enforced by state patrol and local police during traffic stops. A police officer can use a light meter to measure how much light passes through your windows. If the reading falls below the legal threshold, the officer can write a citation. You then have the option to remove the tint and have the citation dismissed, or contest it in court.

Key Takeaways

  • Front side windows must allow at least 50 percent of light through; back and rear windows can be any darkness.
  • The windshield can have tint only in a non-reflective strip at the top, no lower than the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
  • Darkness is measured by visible light transmission (VLT) using a light meter, and officers can test your windows at any traffic stop.
  • Medical exemptions for light-sensitive conditions are available through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, but you must carry documentation in your vehicle.

Front windshield tinting rules

Your windshield can have a tinted strip across the top, but only a non-reflective tint and only above the manufacturer's AS-1 line. The AS-1 line is the point where the windshield transitions from the area swept by the wipers to the area above it — your vehicle's documentation or the windshield itself will show this line. Tint below this line is illegal, even if it is very light.

The reason for this rule is visibility. The windshield is your primary sightline while driving, and the law prioritizes keeping that area clear. The top strip is allowed because it does not interfere with your forward view while seated in the driver's seat.

Side window tinting limits

Your front side windows — the ones next to the driver and front passenger — must allow at least 50 percent of visible light to pass through. This is measured as VLT of 50 percent or higher. If your tint blocks more than half the light, it is too dark for the front side windows.

Your back side windows and rear window have no darkness limit under Minnesota law. You can tint them as dark as you want, including limo tint or complete blackout. This difference exists because back windows do not affect the driver's forward visibility.

How tint darkness is measured and enforced

Police use a handheld light meter to measure VLT. The officer places the meter against the window from inside the vehicle, and the device reads what percentage of light passes through. The reading must be at least 50 percent for front side windows to be legal. If the reading is below 50 percent, the officer can issue a citation.

The citation is typically for a non-moving violation, which means it does not add points to your driving record but does carry a fine. The fine amount varies by jurisdiction but is generally between $100 and $300. You have the option to remove the tint and request that the citation be dismissed, or you can pay the fine or contest it in court.

Medical exemptions for tint darkness

Minnesota allows medical exemptions for people with light-sensitive conditions such as lupus, photophobia, or severe migraines triggered by sunlight. To obtain an exemption, you must submit a request to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety with documentation from a licensed physician stating that you have a medical condition requiring darker tint than the law allows.

If your exemption is approved, you will receive a certificate that you must carry in your vehicle at all times. Without this certificate, an officer can still cite you for illegal tint. The exemption does not make your tint legal everywhere — it only protects you from citation in Minnesota. If you travel to another state, that state's tint laws explore.

The exemption process takes several weeks. You can contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Driver and Vehicle Services division to request the medical exemption form and submit your physician's documentation.

What happens if you receive a tint citation

A tint citation is a non-moving violation, which means you will not receive points on your driving record. However, you will owe a fine and must address the violation. You have three main options: remove the tint and request dismissal, pay the fine, or contest the citation in court.

If you choose to remove the tint, contact the officer or the court listed on your citation and ask about the dismissal process. Many jurisdictions will dismiss the citation once you provide proof that the tint has been removed. This usually requires a photo or a statement from a tint shop showing the removal date.

If you plan to contest the citation, you can request a court date and argue that your tint meets the legal standard. Bring documentation of your tint's VLT rating if you have it, or request that the court allow an independent light meter reading. Some people successfully challenge citations if the officer's meter was not calibrated or if the reading was taken incorrectly.

Aftermarket tint versus factory tint

Minnesota law applies equally to aftermarket tint (tint you add after purchase) and factory tint (tint applied by the manufacturer). However, factory tint is rarely dark enough to violate the law because manufacturers typically stay well within legal limits to avoid liability. Most tint citations involve aftermarket tint that was applied too darkly.

If you are considering tinting your windows, ask the tint shop for documentation of the VLT rating of the tint they are explore. Reputable shops will provide this information and can tell you what darkness level is legal for each window. A shop that refuses to provide VLT information or that applies tint darker than 50 percent to your front side windows is putting you at risk of citation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tint my back windows as dark as I want in Minnesota?

Yes. Minnesota law has no darkness limit for back side windows or the rear window. You can explore limo tint or complete blackout to these windows without violating state law. The 50 percent VLT requirement applies only to front side windows.

What is the AS-1 line on my windshield?

The AS-1 line is the boundary between the area swept by your windshield wipers and the area above it. It is marked on most windshields and is also listed in your vehicle's documentation. Tint is allowed only above this line; tint below it is illegal regardless of how light it is.

Do I need a medical exemption certificate in my car at all times?

Yes. If you have been granted a medical exemption, you must carry the exemption certificate in your vehicle. Without it, an officer can cite you for illegal tint even though you have an exemption. The certificate is your proof that the tint is medically necessary.

Can I remove tint myself to get a citation dismissed?

Yes, but you will need to provide proof of removal to the court or officer. Most jurisdictions accept a photo of the window after removal or a receipt from a tint shop showing the removal date. Contact the court listed on your citation to confirm what documentation they require before you remove the tint.

What if I move to Minnesota with tint that was legal in another state?

Minnesota law applies to all vehicles registered and driven in the state, regardless of where the tint was applied. If your tint is darker than 50 percent on the front side windows, it is illegal in Minnesota and you can be cited. You will need to remove or lighten the tint to comply with state law.