Are Tinted Windows Legal In Wisconsin?

Every now and then, I'm driving around and notice vehicles with windows that seem way more tinted than the average car.

I always wonder if that person is secretly working for the President or maybe they are just super sensitive to the sun.

This got me wondering: are tinted windows even legal in Wisconsin?

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Legality of Tinted Windows

Some parts of the Midwest allow for tinted windows, but they must meet certain classifications.

For example, Iowa permits tinted windows to a degree. Rear windows of vehicles in Iowa can even be completely tinted.

Read more about the specifications on Iowa's windows here.

Now On To Wisconsin...

It's important to note that these sorts of rules and regulations can be interpreted differently depending on the county or even the city you are in.

Just like with Iowa, the tint percentage can differ from window to window.

As of September of 2024, the rules for window tints on passenger vehicles in the state of Wisconsin are as follows:

• Front Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield
• Front side windows: up to 50% tint darkness is permitted
• Back side windows: up to 35% tint darkness is permitted
• Rear window: up to 35% tint darkness is permitted

There are medical exceptions that are allowed, as long as a doctor signs off on it. This includes having darker tints on front side windows.

What Happens If My Tinted Windows Don't Meet the Requirements?

While we don't recommend driving around in a vehicle that has certain characteristics that are not legally permissible, there does seem to be a bit of leniency in Wisconsin.

By no means are we encouraging you to get extremely tinted windows, but if you do get caught with windows that don't follow the previously mentioned standards, the fine is around $100.

This is based off of a first-time offense though.

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