IS MY MOD LEGAL?

Headlight & Taillight Tint in Tennessee

Illegal

Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee. 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. Headlights must render a person clearly discernible at 200 feet ahead; two red tail lamps and two red stoplights are required at the rear.

Specific Limits

Film permitted
No
Headlight color
white
Taillight color
red

Exceptions & Exemptions

No tinting, coloring, or covering allowed on headlights or taillights that would impair visibility or effectiveness

Statute

Tenn. Code §§ 55-9-402, 55-9-406

Read the statute →

Frequently Asked Questions

Are headlight & taillight tint legal in Tennessee?
Smoked or tinted film on headlights and taillights is illegal in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee?
Film permitted: No. Headlight color: white. Taillight color: red. Source: Tenn. Code §§ 55-9-402, 55-9-406.
Are there exceptions for headlight & taillight tint in Tennessee?
No tinting, coloring, or covering allowed on headlights or taillights that would impair visibility or effectiveness

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