Montana Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
As of 2026, Montana allows 24% VLT on front and 14% on the back side windows on a sedan. Windshield tint: Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line.
Montana VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
AS-1 line
Front Side
24%
VLT minimum
Back Side
14%
VLT minimum
Rear
14%
VLT minimum
Montana measures film VLT (not combined). Side mirrors required if rear tinted.
Reflectivity limit: 35% maximum
Montana VLT Limits (2026, SUV & Truck)
Multi-purpose vehicles are held to different limits than sedans in Montana.
Windshield
AS-1 line
Front Side
24%
VLT minimum
Back Side
Any
VLT minimum
Rear
Any
VLT minimum
Montana measures film VLT.
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Window tint in Montana
Montana measures film VLT rather than combined glass-plus-film, which gives you a bit more actual darkness than the numbers suggest at first glance. Front sides land at 24% and sedan backs are fairly dark at 14%, but SUVs get unrestricted rear glass. The wide open landscape means intense glare on long drives, and tint makes those trips noticeably more comfortable.
How Montana compares
| State | Front | Back | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 24% | 14% | 14% |
| North Dakota | 50% | Any | Any |
| South Dakota | 35% | 20% | 20% |
| Wyoming | 28% | 28% | 28% |
| Idaho | 35% | 20% | 35% |
| Georgia | 32% | 32% | 32% |
Tint ticket costs in Montana
First Offense
$50 fine
Repeat Offense
$50–$100
Medical exemptions in Montana
Physician letter required. Allows darker film VLT for documented conditions. Must carry documentation while driving.
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 Montana?
Front side windows need a minimum of 24% VLT. Back side windows require 14% VLT, and the rear window requires 14% VLT.
Are window tint laws different for SUVs and trucks in Montana?
Yes. A sedan in Montana needs 24% VLT on the front side windows, 14% VLT on the back side windows and 14% VLT on the rear window. An SUV, van or pickup needs 24% VLT on the front side windows, any darkness on the back side windows and any darkness on the rear window. Montana measures film VLT.
How much is a tint ticket in Montana?
A first offense is typically $50 fine. Repeat offenses can cost $50–$100. 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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