Mississippi Window Tint Laws Explained: Legal VLT Limits for 2026

Mississippi’s window tint laws, found under Mississippi Code §63-7-59, set some of the more permissive front side window limits in the Southeast. The state allows 28% VLT on front side windows for sedans and has no rear window restrictions for larger vehicles — a setup that gives drivers plenty of room for a dark, functional tint job without running into legal trouble.

What VLT Percentages Does Mississippi Allow?

Mississippi differentiates between sedans and multi-purpose vehicles on rear side windows. The 28% front side limit applies to both categories, but SUVs and trucks get more flexibility on the rear glass.

Mississippi Tint Reflection Rules

Mississippi restricts tint reflectivity to no more than 20% on any window. This means metallic mirror-finish films are off the table. Standard ceramic, carbon, and dyed films easily fall below the 20% reflectivity threshold. If your film creates a noticeable mirror effect from outside the vehicle, it exceeds Mississippi’s limit. Stick with non-reflective film types for clean compliance.

Medical Exemptions in Mississippi

Mississippi provides medical exemptions for individuals with conditions requiring darker tint. A licensed physician must provide a signed statement certifying the medical condition and the recommended tint level. Qualifying conditions commonly include lupus, melanoma, photosensitivity, and other conditions aggravated by UV exposure. The exemption document must be carried in the vehicle at all times and produced upon request during a traffic stop.

Mississippi Tint Penalties

Illegal window tint in Mississippi is a misdemeanor. First-offense fines typically range from $25 to $150. Officers can use tint meters during traffic stops to verify VLT levels. If cited, you’ll usually receive a correction period to bring your tint into compliance. Repeat violations can carry higher fines and may include mandatory tint removal. Mississippi law enforcement enforces tint primarily during traffic stops rather than through dedicated tint checkpoints. Urban areas like Jackson and the Gulf Coast tend to see more consistent enforcement than rural counties.

Window Tint VLT Comparison: Mississippi Sedans vs SUVs/Trucks Sedan Front Side|28 Sedan Rear Side|28 Sedan Rear Window|5 SUV Front Side|28 SUV Rear Side|5 SUV Rear Window|5 0%

How Mississippi Compares to Neighboring States

Mississippi’s 28% front side limit is more permissive than Tennessee (35%) and identical to the typical reading for Louisiana (40% is the stated minimum, but enforcement allows some variation). Alabama allows 32%, which is slightly less permissive. Arkansas requires 25% on front sides, making it one of the more lenient in the region. If you drive between Mississippi and its neighbors, a 32% or 35% front side tint keeps you compliant across the most common border states.

Good Questions, Straight Answers

What is the darkest legal tint in Mississippi?|For sedans, 28% VLT on front and rear side windows, with the rear window unrestricted. SUVs and trucks can use any darkness on rear windows, with front sides limited to 28%. Is 20% tint legal in Mississippi?|20% tint is not legal on front side windows or sedan rear side windows. SUVs and trucks can use 20% on rear side and back windows. Does Mississippi require a tint sticker?|No. Mississippi does not require a manufacturer certification sticker or label on tinted windows. How much is a tint ticket in Mississippi?|Fines for illegal window tint in Mississippi range from $25 to $150 for first offenses. Can I get a medical exemption for darker tint?|Yes. A licensed physician must provide a signed statement certifying the medical need. The document must be carried in the vehicle. What is the tint reflectivity limit in Mississippi?|Tint reflectivity is capped at 20% on all windows. Mirror-finish and metallic films exceeding this are prohibited.