23 Nov Michigan Legal Tints
So what exactly is the definition of “total solar reflection”? This definition requires expertise and a good understanding of science to get the correct calculated amount of solar reflection. If you wish to have your windows tinted, please do so by a licensed professional. They have the tools you need to make sure your car meets the legal requirements of Michigan law. Michigan`s auto window tint laws have only been in effect since 2000, making the state a relative laggard in passing window tint laws. However, window film technology was already at an advanced stage of development in 2000, so the rules created at the time didn`t need to be updated much more than in states like Massachusetts, where rules for tinted windows were established in 1985. Auto window tint laws in Michigan are in many ways simpler than in other states, as all front side windows and rear and rear windows are subject to the same rules, regardless of the type of vehicle, while in other states, tint laws are different depending on the type of vehicle – SUV, truck, van or car, for example. On the other hand, there are some very specific caveats about Michigan state window tint laws that aren`t found elsewhere, so you`ll need to read the following breakdown of hue laws carefully if you want to avoid a Michigan hue violation ticket. While Michigan`s tinting laws are generally permissive, illegal window tinting can be treated as a felony, meaning you can only be stopped and ticketed for tinting windows, while in other states, tint violations are only considered secondary offenses. In many cases, stopping the window tint in Michigan will only result in a “repair ticket,” where you have some time to correct the illegal tint and then prove that you did, after which you can only pay $25 in processing fees (not to mention the cost of replacing the glass tint).
But it is at the discretion of the police to impose harsher sentences. So do not risk being arrested for an illegal tint of the windows that is clear and can be tested in real time on site. It`s also important to note that manufacturers don`t have to certify the film they`re selling, and you don`t have to advertise a sticker that shows the legal hue. The Michigan Window Tint Act is very tarnished with legalese and language to confuse you and please the legislature – since they are the only ones who talk like that. Certain medical conditions make it necessary to have tinted windows darker than the legal limit in Michigan. Conditions that allow a person a medical exemption include melanoma, lupus, or a sun allergy. Always keep your documents in a doctor`s vehicle! You must present it to the police officer if you are arrested because of your tinted windows. Many motorists with conditions ranging from glaucoma to migraines to skin conditions may benefit from a darker window tint than Michigan law allows on the front side windows.
Fortunately, Michigan law allows exceptions for medical tint of windows, which can allow for a darker tint on all windshields. You will need a medical certificate proving that you qualify for a medical exemption, and you may be arrested from time to time for your shade, but you will not be quoted if you can prove that a darker shade is medically beneficial for you. All window tints sold or installed in Michigan must comply with state tint laws, but manufacturers, installers, and sellers of window films are not required to certify the film, the offer explicitly complies with state regulations. It is the responsibility of the end user to have a legal tint and in good faith all suppliers must ensure this. Similarly, no sticker is required to prove that a shade used in Michigan is allowed, but of course, an official or inspector can easily measure a window tint to see if it`s less than a legal length. If the rear window of a vehicle becomes dark (or otherwise obstructed), the driver must have two exterior mirrors in good condition. In Michigan, first-tint violations often result in the aforementioned “repair ticket,” which charges only a minimal processing fee if the vehicle owner corrects the illegal tint issues and then proves that the problem has been resolved. Failure to act or subsequent contraventions may result in higher fines and may be considered more serious crimes, although civil and non-criminal in nature. If your car has obstructed visibility or a blocked windshield due to excessive black tint on your window, you will receive a civil offense.
The penalty for this is a fine and two points on your ticket. You do not have to admit liability for this civil violation if you want an informal or formal hearing. These hearings take place before a judge. During this civil hearing, people will be asked to walk through your window beyond legal boundaries. Often, this evidence is based entirely on the officer`s opinion. If your vehicle doesn`t already have a factory-installed windshield tint like many cars, adding this window film is a good idea, even if it`s the only replacement window tint you get for the entire vehicle. The tint of the windshield glass can reduce the glare of sunlight from above, a glare that can be dangerous, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is at sharper angles. If your car, truck or SUV does not already have a windshield window tint, you are allowed to apply a replacement window film to the front windshield up to the top four inches of the glass. Note that the same limit applies to all types of vehicles and also be aware that this four-inch limit is more restrictive than in many states that generally allow tinting up to five or six inches or on the AS-1 line designated by the manufacturer. The problem is that windshield tint, which is perfectly legal in many states, can be illegal in Michigan, so be sure to measure any existing windshield tint when you register a vehicle in Michigan. And make sure your windshield is non-reflective so that it remains compliant with the law.
As always, DT Services Window Tinting always suggests to our customers that only legal window tinting should be installed and that Michigan residents comply with the Michigan Window Tinting Act. Yes, 5% shade is legal in Michigan. But you can use any shade of darkness, but only on the top 4 inches of driver`s side windows and any tinted darkness is legal for the rear and rear windows. This approval letter allows you to have a special window treatment or a request for protection while the vehicle is moving. Since it is restrictive in nature, many people try to test the limits of legality by ringing their illegal vehicle. This is not wise as it attracts the attention of law enforcement vehicles and can result in hefty fines for the driver of a tinted car beyond the legal limit. Michigan`s window tint laws apply equally to all types of vehicles – i.e. sedans, SUVs, trucks, vans, etc. – but they are more specific than in many states, and violations are easy to spot, so pay close attention to these regulations.
In Michigan, the front side windows, that is, those next to the driver and passenger of the shotgun, can only be tinted along the top four inches of the window. This shade can be of any darkness and unlike the front windshield, it can be reflective up to 35%. These tint strips, like the window film on the windshield, are designed to reduce the glare of the sun on the driver`s face, keep their vision clearer and signify a safer driving experience. If most of the glass is left free, the front cab is still clearly visible to people outside, especially law enforcement officers who can stop the vehicle. Because the illegal tinting of the front side windows is so obvious in the face of these specific rules, violating state policies will almost certainly result in a citation at some point.