Minnesota Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
As of 2026, Minnesota allows 50% VLT on front and 50% on the back side windows on a sedan. Windshield tint: No aftermarket tint allowed on windshield.
Minnesota VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
None allowed
Front Side
50%
VLT minimum
Back Side
50%
VLT minimum
Rear
50%
VLT minimum
Side mirrors required if rear tinted. 3% tolerance.
Reflectivity limit: 20% maximum
Minnesota VLT Limits (2026, SUV & Truck)
Multi-purpose vehicles are held to different limits than sedans in Minnesota.
Windshield
None allowed
Front Side
50%
VLT minimum
Back Side
Any
VLT minimum
Rear
Any
VLT minimum
3% tolerance.
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Window tint in Minnesota
Minnesota requires 50% VLT on front side windows which is stricter than the national average, and windshield aftermarket tint isn't permitted at all. SUV and truck owners at least get any darkness on rear glass once they get past the front. The cold-weather climate means UV protection isn't top of mind for most drivers, but summer glare on open roads and lakes is real.
How Minnesota compares
| State | Front | Back | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 50% | 50% | 50% |
| Wisconsin | 50% | 35% | 35% |
| Iowa | 70% | Any | Any |
| South Dakota | 35% | 20% | 20% |
| North Dakota | 50% | Any | Any |
| Idaho | 35% | 20% | 35% |
Tint ticket costs in Minnesota
First Offense
$50 petty misdemeanor
Repeat Offense
$50–$200
Medical exemptions in Minnesota
Available through physician certification to DMV. Allows front side windows down to 50% VLT. Must carry exemption documentation. Valid for duration of condition.
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Tint laws change frequently. Always verify current regulations with a certified installer or your local DMV before making any decisions. Car Editor is not responsible for any fines, penalties, or legal issues resulting from the use of this information.
Nearby States
Driving across state lines? Check neighboring tint laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal window tint in Minnesota?
Front side windows need a minimum of 50% VLT. Back side windows require 50% VLT, and the rear window requires 50% VLT.
Are window tint laws different for SUVs and trucks in Minnesota?
Yes. A sedan in Minnesota needs 50% VLT on the front side windows, 50% VLT on the back side windows and 50% VLT on the rear window. An SUV, van or pickup needs 50% VLT on the front side windows, any darkness on the back side windows and any darkness on the rear window. 3% tolerance.
How much is a tint ticket in Minnesota?
A first offense is typically $50 petty misdemeanor. Repeat offenses can cost $50–$200. Fix-it tickets are available, giving you time to remove or replace the film.
What is combined VLT and why does it matter?
Your car's factory glass already blocks some light (usually around 70-80% VLT). When you add tint film, the combined VLT is lower than the film alone. For example, 35% film on 75% factory glass gives you about 26% combined VLT. The calculator above does this math for you.
Can I preview tint on my car before installing?
Yes. Car Editor's AI tint simulator lets you upload a photo of your car and see any tint level applied to it in seconds. You can try different VLT percentages on your actual vehicle before committing.
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