Yes, 35% window tint is legal in Michigan, but only for the rear windows of passenger vehicles.
Under Michigan’s 2023 vehicle equipment regulations, front-side windows must allow at least 70% light transmittance, while rear windows may be darkened to 35% or darker. The Michigan State Police (MSP) enforces these standards through annual vehicle inspections, with non-compliance risking citations under MCL 257.709. Local jurisdictions, including Wayne and Oakland Counties, have adopted stricter enforcement protocols ahead of the 2026 federal vehicle safety review.
Key Regulations for 35% Window Tint in Michigan
- Front-Side Windows: Must permit ≥70% light transmittance; 35% tint is prohibited here. Violations are classified as a civil infraction, punishable by fines up to $100.
- Rear Windows: Permitted to have ≤35% tint, including limousines and SUVs. Medical exemptions require MSP approval with documented necessity.
- Reflective Tint: Any mirrored or metallic tint is illegal on all windows, regardless of darkness. Law enforcement may require removal during traffic stops.
Vehicles registered in Michigan must comply with these standards at all times. Out-of-state vehicles temporarily operating in Michigan are subject to the same rules under the Nonresident Violator Compact. Dealers and installers face liability for non-compliant tint installations, as certified by the Michigan Automobile Dealers Association (MADA) guidelines.