Window tinting can look stylish while also protecting you, your family, and the inside of your vehicle from UV rays. You might prefer to opt for the darkest tint to offer the best protection and privacy.
However, there are certain laws around tinting windows that can prevent you from doing so. Today we will be looking at Minnesota’s laws.
Minnesota State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in Minnesota?
Tint VLT: Windshield: No tint is allowed on your windshield.
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: Up to 50% tint is allowed on these windows.
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: Up to 50% tint is allowed on these windows.
Tint VLT: Rear Window: Up to 50% tint is allowed on these windows.
How reflective can window tint be in Minnesota?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: Up to 20% reflective.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: Up to 20% reflective.
Other Minnesota automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
Resisted Colors: You are allowed all colors of window tints in Minnesota.
Side Mirrors: No restrictions.
Certificate Requirements: No certification is required from manufacturers to sell the film in Minnesota.
Stick Requirements: You are required to have a sticker identifying the tinting is legal between the film and glass, although only on the driver’s side window.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: the charge for illegal window tinting in Minnesota is $135, statute number 169.791, subd 4(a).
Minnesota Tint Law Reference
Minnesota Statutes section 169.71: Windshield
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in Minnesota State?
The cost of your window tinting will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of vehicle you drive. Small cars such as coupes will cost considerably less to tint because they feature smaller windows. On the other hand, SUVs and trucks are harder to tint due to their larger windows. This means that the price is likely going to be more expensive.
Another thing to consider is the type of window tint that you’re opting for. Ceramic tint is the most expensive due to the technology used to create it. It also offers the best protection and heat resistance. Dyed or metal window tints will be cheaper but also may be less effective.
How Does Car Window Tinting Work?
Window tinting film uses a specific type of polyester-based film that allows only certain types of sun rays to come through into your vehicle. The film then reflects or absorbs the harmful rays so that they don’t penetrate the glass and cause harm to you, your family, or the interior of your car.
The amount of metal, dye, or ceramic within the film will determine how much light is blocked, which is why there are different levels of tint that you can purchase. The lower the VLT percentage, the less light is allowed into your vehicle.
What Is The Best DIY 50% Tinting Product?
50% window tints are among the most popular and therefore the market is full of high-quality options. However, we have found that the MKBROTHER 50% VLT Professional Window Tint is one of the best you can buy.
Why Is This The Best?
This tint from MKBROTHER is offered in seven different sizes, but they all have the same height of 24 inches. This makes it easier for you to cut out the shapes of your windows without wasting a lot of your film. We find this feature incredibly beneficial for beginners who have never added a window tint to their vehicles before.
The film is 1.5 millimeters thick, made of a premium quality film that is resistant to scratches, peeling, and bubbling. However, the thickness won’t compromise your window mechanisms, meaning that you can still use them effortlessly without damaging your window tint.
You’ll find that this tint blocks 50% of light and heat from getting into your car. However, up to 99% of UV rays are blocked, keeping you and your car safe from even the brightest of days.
How To Apply To Your Car
MKBROTHER offers both instructions on how to apply this film to your windows, as well as illustrations to make it an even simpler process.
Firstly, you’ll need to clean your window as well as you can with a high-quality glass cleaner. Cut the tint to the shape of your window with one inch of allowance all the way around its perimeter. You can also cut the shapes before you begin the application process if you’d prefer.
Apply the adhesive tape to each side of one corner of the tint and pull them apart. This will separate the clear liner backing from your film.
Spray the adhesive side with the spray solution as well as the inside of the window. Place the film onto the window and remove any bubbles with a flat tool, such as a squeegee. Now trim the edges of the film and you’re done with the first window!
Pros & Cons Of DIY vs Professional Fitting
Pros of DIY fitting
- Ability to choose an option to fit your personal situation and budget
- You can purchase pre-cut kits which are easier for DIY installers to use
- Complete the job to your satisfaction
Cons of DIY fitting
- Quite difficult for beginners
- DIY car modifications are illegal in some states
Pros of professional fitting
- More experience from technicians
- Likely to offer warranties and guarantees
- It’s definitely legal and you won’t get into trouble
Cons of professional fitting
- Often comes at a higher cost
- Often is finished to a higher quality
Medical Exemption
Minnesota State Law allows window tint medical exemptions to be given to you provided that you have a licensed physician’s prescription or letter stating your exemption. This must be kept in your car at all times and available to show anyone who asks.
The statement must specify the minimum amount of light transmittance that your medical needs require. It should also contain an expiration date of no longer than two years in advance of when the statement was first issued.