In Montana, 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 Montana state sources; laws change, so confirm the current statute before you tint.
| Window | Darkest Legal (VLT MAX) | Reflectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Clear below the AS-1 line only — sunscreening material on the windshield must be clear and transparent below the AS-1 line; above the AS-1 line the material may not be red, yellow, or amber in color (§ 61-9-405(4)(a)). No full-windshield percentage. | |
| Front side windows | 24% — light transmission of less than 24% is prohibited, and luminous reflectance of more than 35% is prohibited (§ 61-9-405(4)(b)) | |
| Back side windows | 14% — the side windows behind the front seat answer to the same clause as the rear window: light transmission of less than 14% prohibited, luminous reflectance of more than 35% prohibited (§ 61-9-405(4)(c)). Excepted entirely on a multipurpose vehicle, van, or bus (see riders) | |
| Rear window | 14% — the same clause (§ 61-9-405(4)(c)), with the same multipurpose vehicle / van / bus exception |
How to Read These Numbers
- 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.
- Front side windows: Front side windows — driver and front passenger — are the most tightly regulated and the ones checked first at a traffic stop or inspection.
- Back side windows: 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.
- Rear window: The rear window rule often interacts with side mirrors: darker rear glass typically requires dual outside mirrors.
Getting tinted in Montana?
41 shops listed statewide — compare ratings and call for a quote.
Montana Tint Law Questions
What is the darkest legal tint in Montana?
For front side windows, Montana allows tint down to 24% — light transmission of less than 24% is prohibited, and luminous reflectance of more than 35% is prohibited (§ 61-9-405(4)(b)) — the VLT MAX. Rear windows may allow darker film; check the table above for each position.
What happens if my tint is darker than Montana 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.