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When it comes to vehicle customization, many drivers choose to tint their taillights for aesthetic purposes. However, before you decide to tint your taillights, it’s important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding this practice. In Illinois, taillight tinting is illegal, and violating this law can result in fines and even legal consequences.
According to Chapter 12, Section 12-201 of the Illinois Vehicle Code, all taillights must emit a red light that is visible from at least 500 feet away. Any alterations to the color or visibility of the taillights, including tinting or covering, are strictly prohibited. Additionally, driving a vehicle with smoked or tinted taillights is also illegal under Chapter 12, Section 12-212 of the Illinois Vehicle Code.
It’s important to note that Illinois is not the only state with laws regarding taillight tinting. Many other states have similar regulations in place, with some even prohibiting any alterations to the taillights altogether. As a responsible driver, it’s crucial to understand and follow these laws to ensure your safety and avoid any legal consequences.
Understanding Illinois’ Taillight Tint Laws
When it comes to tinting your car’s taillights in Illinois, it is important to understand the state’s laws to avoid any legal issues. In this section, we will discuss the taillight tint laws in Illinois, whether it is legal to tint taillights in Chicago, and the consequences of violating Illinois’ taillight tint laws.
What are the taillight tint laws in Illinois?
According to Chapter 12, Section 12-201 of the Illinois Vehicle Code, taillights in Illinois must emit a red light visible from at least 500 feet. The law also states that any alteration to the taillights, other than changing the bulb, is illegal. This means that tinting, painting, or covering taillights with any material other than the manufacturer’s original lens is prohibited.
Is it legal to tint taillights in Chicago?
No, it is not legal to tint taillights in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois. Chapter 12, Section 12-212 of the Illinois Vehicle Code states that it is illegal to drive a vehicle with a smoked or tinted lens or cover. This applies to both the front and rear lights of a vehicle.
What are the consequences of violating Illinois’ taillight tint laws?
Violating Illinois’ taillight tint laws can result in a traffic ticket, fine, and even having your car impounded. The fine for violating the taillight tint laws in Illinois can range from $75 to $500, depending on the severity of the violation. Additionally, having your car impounded can result in additional fees and inconvenience.
In conclusion, it is important to understand and follow Illinois’ taillight tint laws to avoid any legal issues. Tinting your taillights is not legal in Illinois, and violating the law can result in fines and other consequences.
How to Ensure Your Taillight Tint is Legal
When it comes to taillight tinting, it’s important to make sure that you are following the laws and regulations set by the state of Illinois. Here are a few ways to ensure that your taillight tint is legal:
Consult with a Professional Tinting Service
One of the best ways to ensure that your taillight tint is legal is to consult with a professional tinting service. They will be able to provide you with the necessary information and guidance to ensure that your tint is within the legal limits. They will also be able to install the tint for you, ensuring that it is done correctly and safely.
Check the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Percentage
The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage is the amount of visible light that is allowed to pass through the tint. In Illinois, the law requires that the VLT percentage for taillight tinting be no less than 50%. It’s important to check the VLT percentage of your tint to ensure that it meets this requirement.
Avoid Red or Blue Tinting
In Illinois, it is illegal to have red or blue-tillight tinting. This is because these colors are reserved for emergency vehicles, and having them on your vehicle can be confusing for other drivers. It’s important to choose a tint color that is within the legal limits and won’t cause confusion on the road.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your taillight tint is legal in the state of Illinois. Remember to consult with a professional tinting service, check the VLT percentage, and avoid red or blue tinting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the taillight tinting laws in Illinois?
In Illinois, it is legal to tint your taillights, but only to a certain extent. According to Illinois law, taillights must emit a red light visible from at least 500 feet away. This means that any tint applied to taillights must not diminish the brightness of the red light emitted.
Can you get a ticket for tinted taillights in Chicago?
Yes, you can receive a ticket for tinted taillights in Chicago if they do not comply with Illinois law. If the tint applied to your taillights is too dark and reduces the brightness of the red light emitted, it is considered illegal and can result in a ticket.
How dark can taillight tint be in Illinois?
The darkness of taillight tint is regulated by Illinois law. The tint applied to taillights must not reduce the brightness of the red light emitted. Therefore, the tint applied must be light enough to allow the red light to shine through and be visible from at least 500 feet away.
Are clear taillights legal in Illinois?
Yes, clear taillights are legal in Illinois as long as they emit a red light visible from at least 500 feet away. However, it is important to note that some aftermarket clear taillights may not meet the legal requirements for brightness and visibility.
What are the consequences of having illegal taillight tint in Illinois?
If you are caught with an illegal taillight tint in Illinois, you can receive a ticket and be required to remove the tint. Additionally, having illegal tint on your taillights can result in your car failing a safety inspection, which can prevent you from renewing your registration.
Can you install taillight tint yourself in Illinois?
Yes, you can install taillight tint yourself in Illinois. However, it is important to ensure that the tint you use is compliant with Illinois law. If the tint is too dark and reduces the brightness of the red light emitted, it is considered illegal and can result in a ticket.
