South Dakota Tint Laws: Understanding the Regulations
Discover the legal window tint in South Dakota
South Dakota, like other states, has specific regulations concerning window tinting on vehicles. These laws are implemented to promote safety and adherence to legal requirements. As a vehicle owner in South Dakota, it is crucial to be well-informed about these regulations to prevent any potential legal complications. Let’s explore and understand all the various aspects of tint laws in South Dakota.
What Does VLT Mean According to South Dakota State Law?
Understanding the term “Visible Light Transmission” (VLT) is crucial before exploring South Dakota’s window tint laws. VLT refers to the percentage of visible light that can pass through the window tint material.
In South Dakota, these laws specify the minimum and maximum VLT percentages allowed for different windows of a vehicle. Being aware of these regulations is vital for vehicle owners in the state to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues. Let’s now delve into the specific window tint laws in South Dakota.
So, What is The Legal Tint in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, window tint regulations are overseen by the South Dakota Department of Motor Vehicles. These regulations vary between passenger cars and station wagons on one hand, and multi-purpose passenger vehicles and recreational vehicles (RVs) on the other.
Now, let’s examine the specific tint regulations that apply to vehicles in South Dakota.
Tint Laws for Passenger Car and Station Wagons in South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for regulating window tinting laws in the state. When it comes to window tint darkness and reflectivity, South Dakota allows specific permissible levels:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, which is typically found at the topmost part of the windshield, extending about five inches from the top.
- Front Side Windows: These windows must allow more than 35% of light transmission, ensuring that at least 35% of visible light can pass through the tint.
- Back Side Windows: The tint on the back side windows (rear doors) must allow more than 20% of light transmission, guaranteeing a minimum of 20% of visible light passing through.
- Rear Window: Similarly, the rear window must also allow more than 20% of light transmission, permitting at least 20% of visible light to pass through the tint.
Note: To stay compliant and ensure safety while driving in South Dakota, it’s important to abide by these specific window tinting regulations for each type of window on your vehicle.
Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in South Dakota
In South Dakota, Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles (MPVs) and Recreational Vehicles (RVs) have specific window tint laws, distinct from those for passenger cars and station wagons. Here are the regulations for window tinting on MPVs and RVs:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, similar to other vehicle types.
- Front Side Windows: MPVs and RVs must allow more than 35% of light transmission on their front side windows, just like other vehicles.
- Back Side Windows: The back side windows of MPVs and RVs must allow more than 20% of light transmission, following the same rule as other vehicle types.
- Rear Window: MPVs and RVs also need to comply with the requirement of allowing more than 20% of light transmission through the rear window, similar to other vehicles.
For MPV and RV owners in South Dakota, adhering to these specific tinting regulations is essential to ensure compliance with the law and promote safety while driving. Always verify that the window tint on your MPV or RV meets the permissible light transmission levels as specified by the state regulations.
Window Tint Reflection Regulations in South Dakota
South Dakota’s window tint laws allow the use of tinted windows on vehicles but place restrictions on the level of reflection permitted. It is important to comply with these regulations to ensure safety and visibility on the road.
For sedans, the regulations state that
- The front side windows must not have a metallic or mirrored appearance when tinted. This means the tint should not reflect light like a mirror and should not be highly reflective.
- The back side windows must also not have a metallic or mirrored appearance. This rule aims to prevent strong reflections that could distract other drivers.
Similarly, for SUVs and vans
- The front side windows of SUVs and vans must not have a metallic or mirrored appearance when tinted. This is to maintain good visibility for the driver and others outside the vehicle.
- The back side windows of SUVs and vans must also not have a metallic or mirrored appearance to avoid excessive glare and maintain clear visibility for other drivers.
Window Tint Reflection in South Dakota- South Dakota Tint Laws 2023
In addition to regulations on window tint darkness, South Dakota also has specific guidelines regarding window tint reflection. Reflective tints, which can be beneficial in reducing heat and glare, must comply with state-set permissible levels of window reflection.
- Front Side Windows: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield. This means you can apply a tint strip at the top of the front windshield, commonly known as the “sun strip” or “eyebrow.” The tint used for this portion should not be reflective.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness of tint is allowed. South Dakota does not specify any limitations on the level of darkness or visible light transmission (VLT) for the rear side windows, meaning you can apply any level of tint darkness you prefer.
Rear Window: Any darkness of tint is allowed. Similar to the back side windows, there are no specific restrictions on the darkness of the tint for the rear window, allowing you to apply any level of tint darkness.
Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of South Dakota You Need to Know
In South Dakota, window tinting is subject to several important laws, rules, and regulations to ensure safety and adherence to state standards. These regulations cover various aspects of window tinting, including side mirrors, tint colors, tint variance, certification requirements, the use of stickers, medical exemptions, and potential penalties for non-compliance.
- Side Mirrors: Fortunately, South Dakota does not impose any specific restrictions on side mirrors when applying window tint. However, it is essential to maintain functional and clear side mirrors to ensure adequate visibility while driving.
- Restricted Colors: Interestingly, there are no explicit restrictions on the colors of window tint that can be used in South Dakota. Nevertheless, drivers should exercise caution and opt for tints that do not impair visibility, especially during nighttime or adverse weather conditions.
- Tint Variance: South Dakota law allows for a tint variance of up to 9%. This means that the actual light transmission of the tinted windows can vary by as much as 9% from the specified tint level. For example, if the legal limit is 30% tint, the actual measured tint on the windows can be as low as 21%.
- Certificates: Film manufacturers are required to certify the window tint film they sell in South Dakota. This certification ensures that the tint meets the state’s standards for light transmission and quality. It is advisable to verify that the chosen window film is certified by the manufacturer before installing it on your vehicle.
- Stickers: The use of proper identification stickers for legal window tinting is mandatory in South Dakota. Each tinted window must have a sticker placed between the film and the glass, serving as evidence that the tint complies with state regulations.
- Medical Exceptions: Unlike some states, South Dakota does not provide any medical exemptions that would allow individuals to use special car window tint for medical reasons. Therefore, all vehicle owners must adhere to the standard window tinting regulations without exceptions based on medical conditions.
Penalties: Failure to comply with South Dakota’s window tinting laws can result in a Class 2 misdemeanor. Conviction may lead to fines, penalties, or even potential legal repercussions. It is crucial for all vehicle owners to respect the state’s window tint regulations to avoid such penalties and uphold road safety.
South Dakota Tint Laws- FAQ’s
Is 5% tint legal in South Dakota?
No, 5% tint is not legal in South Dakota. The state allows a tint variance of up to 9%, meaning the actual measured tint on the windows can be as low as 9% less than the specified legal limit. Therefore, the legal limit for window tint in South Dakota would be higher than 5%.
Is 20% tint legal in South Dakota?
20% tint is not legal for the front side windows in South Dakota. The state law permits up to 9%.
Is 35% tint legal in South Dakota?
35% tint is generally legal for the front side windows in South Dakota. However, please keep in mind that state laws regarding window tinting can change.
Is 50% tint legal in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, 50% tint is typically permissible for the front side windows. Nonetheless, it’s important to bear in mind that state laws and regulations are subject to potential revisions.
Is 75% tint legal in South Dakota?
Although 75% tint is typically allowed for the front side windows in South Dakota, it’s important to note that state laws and regulations may undergo changes.
What is the legal window tint in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, the allowable window tint levels vary based on the specific windows and their location within the vehicle. Regulations for front side windows differ from those governing the rear side windows, back window, and windshield. It is essential to be aware of these distinctions to ensure compliance with the state’s window tinting laws.
What is the darkest legal tint in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, the maximum permissible tint darkness varies depending on the specific window and its location within the vehicle. Rear windows are allowed to have darker tints compared to front windows and the windshield. It’s important to be aware of these distinctions to comply with the state’s window tinting regulations.
How much is a tint ticket in South Dakota?
Generally, the fine for a window tint ticket in South Dakota could range from around $120 to $200 or more, depending on the severity of the violation and any additional penalties or fees imposed.
Most Important Information about Car Window Tinting
Wrapping Up!
In a nutshell, being well-informed about the window tint laws in South Dakota is vital for vehicle owners to stay within the legal limits of tint darkness and reflectivity. By following these regulations, drivers can experience the advantages of window tinting while prioritizing road safety and compliance with the law. Stay updated with the latest regulations, maintain legality, and enjoy the benefits of window tinting in South Dakota!
It’s crucial to be aware of the specific requirements for different types of vehicles and windows to maintain compliance with the law. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your drive in the beautiful surroundings of the Aloha State without any legal complications or safety concerns.