Is Window Tinting Legal in Tennessee? (2026)
Yes — Window Tinting is legal in Tennessee as of 2026.
Law changed in 2024: A 2024 bill was proposed to authorize any POST-certified law enforcement officer to enforce window tinting laws.
Quick Answer
Window Tinting is legal in Tennessee. Rear side and back windows may have any darkness. Medical exemptions are provided under Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-9-107.
What the Law Says
Tennessee law requires all windows to have a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) of at least 35%.
— Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-9-107
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Tint Limits (VLT %) | Permitted if tint meets VLT requirements; medical exemptions apply. |
| Medical Exemptions | Legal to sell tint films; must comply with state standards. |
| Fix-It Ticket / Fine | Fines and possible tint removal orders for violations. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
A 2024 bill was proposed to authorize any POST-certified law enforcement officer to enforce window tinting laws.
Enforcement Reality
A window tint violation is a Class C misdemeanor, and police can pull a vehicle over if they have a reasonable belief the tint is illegal.
A common mistake is having any window with less than 35% VLT. Reflective tints are also prohibited.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Tennessee. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Window Tinting in Tennessee
What Happens If You Get Pulled Over With Window Tinting in Tennessee?
If you're within Tennessee's legal limits, a traffic stop shouldn't escalate over window tinting. But "shouldn't" and "won't" are different things. Officers have discretion, and anything in plain view is fair game. Store it properly, know the exact legal limits, and keep proof of legal purchase if you can. Don't volunteer information you're not asked for.
Bottom Line
Window Tinting is legal in Tennessee. You can tint your windows it without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Tennessee vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, tinting car windows is fully legal in 18 states, restricted in 32, and illegal in 0. Tennessee falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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