Tennessee's window tint rules are based on how much light your windows let through

Tennessee measures window tint darkness by visible light transmission (VLT), which is the percentage of light that passes through your windows. The darker the tint, the lower the VLT percentage. Tennessee law sets different limits depending on which windows you tint and what kind of vehicle you drive.

For passenger cars, your front side windows must allow at least 35% of light through. Your rear side windows and rear window can be any darkness. For SUVs and trucks, the rules are slightly different: front side windows need 35% light transmission, but rear windows have no restriction. Windshields have their own rule — you cannot tint the top part of your windshield below the manufacturer's AS-1 line, which is usually a few inches from the top.

The reason these limits exist is safety. Law enforcement needs to see into vehicles during traffic stops, and other drivers need to see pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Tennessee's limits are moderate compared to some states, which allow much darker tint or no tint at all.

Key Takeaways

  • Front side windows on passenger cars must allow at least 35% of light through; rear windows have no darkness limit.
  • SUVs and trucks follow the same front window rule (35% minimum) but have no restriction on rear windows.
  • You cannot tint any part of your windshield except the top strip below the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
  • Window tint shops in Tennessee should know these rules, but you are responsible for making sure your vehicle meets the law before you drive it.
  • Violations can result in a citation and may require you to remove the tint before your vehicle passes inspection.

How to measure your tint darkness before installation

Before you have tint installed, you can ask the shop to test the darkness using a light meter or tint meter. This device measures the exact VLT percentage of the film. Most professional tint shops have one and will use it to make sure your tint meets Tennessee law.

If you already have tint and want to check whether it is legal, you can buy an inexpensive light meter online (usually $20 to $50) or ask a tint shop to test it for you. Some shops charge a small fee; others test for free if you are considering having them adjust or remove the tint. Law enforcement in Tennessee can also measure your tint during a traffic stop using their own meter.

What happens if your tint is too dark

If a police officer pulls you over and measures your tint with a meter, they can issue a citation if it falls below Tennessee's legal limits. The citation is typically a traffic violation, not a criminal charge. You will usually be given a important date to remove or lighten the tint — often 30 days — and then you must show proof that the violation has been corrected.

If you do not correct the tint by the important date, you may face additional fines or be unable to pass your vehicle's annual inspection. Some counties will not issue an inspection sticker until illegal tint is removed. The best approach is to have the tint removed by a professional shop, which usually costs $50 to $200 depending on how many windows are tinted.

Medical exemptions for darker window tint

Tennessee law allows a medical exemption for people with certain skin conditions or light sensitivity disorders that require protection from sunlight. If you have a may have access to medical condition, you can obtain a medical exemption certificate from your doctor, which you must carry in your vehicle along with your registration and insurance.

The exemption does not mean you can tint your windows as dark as you want — it means law enforcement will not cite you if your tint is darker than the standard limit, provided you have the certificate. You still need to follow the windshield rule (no tint except the top strip). To get the certificate, contact your doctor and ask them to complete a form stating that you have a medical condition requiring reduced light exposure. Tennessee does not have a state form, so your doctor can write a letter or use a form from your tint shop.

Tint rules for different vehicle types

Passenger cars and SUVs have slightly different rules because they are classified differently under Tennessee law. A passenger car includes sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks. An SUV or truck is any vehicle built on a truck frame or classified as a light truck by the manufacturer.

For passenger cars: front side windows must be at least 35% VLT; rear side windows and rear window have no limit. For SUVs and trucks: front side windows must be at least 35% VLT; rear windows have no limit. Vans follow the same rules as SUVs. Motorcycles are not subject to tint restrictions because they do not have side windows in the traditional sense.

Where to get window tint installed legally

Professional window tint shops throughout Tennessee can install legal tint. When you choose a shop, ask them directly whether they know Tennessee's tint laws and whether they will measure your tint with a meter before you leave. A reputable shop will may provide that your tint meets state law and will adjust or remove it for free if it does not.

Some shops offer a warranty on their work, meaning they will re-tint or remove tint at no charge if it fails inspection or is measured as illegal by law enforcement. This is a good sign that the shop stands behind their knowledge of the law. Always get a receipt showing the VLT percentage of the film used, which you can show to an officer if you are ever stopped.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tint my windshield at all?

You can tint only the top part of your windshield, below the manufacturer's AS-1 line. This line is usually a few inches from the very top and marks where the sun visor ends. Tinting below that line is illegal. Many shops will refuse to tint below the AS-1 line because they know the law.

What if I bought a used car with illegal tint already on it?

You are responsible for the tint on your vehicle, even if you did not install it. If you are cited, you must remove or lighten the tint by the important date given. The previous owner's actions do not protect you from a violation. Remove the tint as soon as you discover it is illegal.

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

Yes. If you have darker tint under a medical exemption, you must carry the certificate in your vehicle whenever you drive. Without it, an officer can cite you for illegal tint. Keep it with your registration and insurance card in an straightforward-to-reach location.

Can I tint my rear window as dark as I want?

Yes, for both passenger cars and SUVs. Tennessee has no darkness limit for rear windows. However, you still cannot tint your windshield below the AS-1 line, and your front side windows must meet the 35% minimum regardless of vehicle type.

How much does it cost to remove illegal tint?

Professional removal typically costs $50 to $200 depending on how many windows are tinted and how long the tint has been on the vehicle. Some shops offer removal as part of a re-tinting service if you want to install legal tint instead. DIY removal is possible but time-consuming and can damage windows if done incorrectly.