IS MY MOD LEGAL?

Headlight & Taillight Tint in Michigan

Illegal

Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in Michigan. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements.

Verified against primary sources · August 2026

What the law says

Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in Michigan. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements. Rear lamps must emit red light plainly visible at 500 feet. No state expressly permits smoked lamp film; the violation is the loss of required color or visibility distance, which any meaningful tint causes.

Specific Limits

Film permitted
No
Headlight color
white
Taillight color
red

Exceptions & Exemptions

Michigan prohibits any tinting, covering, or alteration of headlights and taillights that reduces light output or visibility

Statute

MCL 257.685, 257.686

Read the statute →

Frequently Asked Questions

Are headlight & taillight tint legal in Michigan?
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in Michigan. Headlights must emit white light and taillights must show red at the required visibility distance, and tint that dims or discolors them violates those requirements.
What are the exact headlight & taillight tint limits in Michigan?
Film permitted: No. Headlight color: white. Taillight color: red. Source: MCL 257.685, 257.686.
Are there exceptions for headlight & taillight tint in Michigan?
Michigan prohibits any tinting, covering, or alteration of headlights and taillights that reduces light output or visibility

Street-legal headlight & taillight tint picks

Gear that helps you mod without a ticket in Michigan.

As an Amazon Associate, Is My Mod Legal earns from qualifying purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend gear that helps you stay street-legal.

Check another modification