In Tennessee, legal tint is measured by VLT — the percentage of light the filmed glass lets through. The numbers below are the darkest tint the law allows at each window position, labeled VLT MAX: install film darker than the listed VLT and the vehicle is out of compliance. Figures are compiled from official Tennessee state sources; laws change, so confirm the current statute before you tint.
| Window | Darkest Legal (VLT MAX) | Reflectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Every window (front side, rear side, rear window) | It is unlawful to operate a vehicle in which any window (that meets FMVSS No. 205) has been treated with material having visible light transmittance of less than 35% | |
| Windshield | Treatment may not reduce the windshield's visible light transmittance below 70%, the manufacturer's standard installed shade band excepted — (a)(1)(B) |
How to Read These Numbers
- Every window (front side, rear side, rear window): Front side windows — driver and front passenger — are the most tightly regulated and the ones checked first at a traffic stop or inspection.
- Every window (front side, rear side, rear window): Rear side windows are usually allowed darker than the fronts, and on SUVs, trucks and vans they are sometimes exempt from the passenger-car limit.
- Every window (front side, rear side, rear window): The rear window rule often interacts with side mirrors: darker rear glass typically requires dual outside mirrors.
- Windshield: The windshield rule controls the strip at the top of the glass and how far film or a visor band may extend down. Most states allow a non-reflective strip above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
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Tennessee Tint Law Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in Tennessee?
For front side windows, Tennessee allows tint down to It is unlawful to operate a vehicle in which any window (that meets FMVSS No. 205) has been treated with material having visible light transmittance of less than 35% — the VLT MAX. Rear windows may allow darker film; check the table above for each position.
What happens if my tint is darker than Tennessee allows?
Over-dark tint can draw a citation and, in many states, a fix-it order requiring the film to be removed and the vehicle re-inspected. Laws also change — verify the current statute before tinting.