Tint Laws in Iowa: What You Need to Know
Discover the legal window tint in Iowa
If you’re a car enthusiast or simply someone who wants to add a touch of style and privacy to your vehicle, you may be considering tinting your windows.
However, before you rush to the nearest tint shop, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the tint laws in your state. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the tint laws in Iowa, so you can make an informed decision.
What Does VLT Mean According to Iowa State Law?
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, refers to the amount of light that is allowed to pass through your vehicle’s windows. In Iowa, the law states that the front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through, while the rear side windows and the rear window can have any level of tint darkness.
So, What is The Legal Tint in Iowa
Iowa also has tinting regulations in place to govern the darkness and reflectivity of vehicle windows. Staying within the legal limits is necessary to drive safely and avoid potential penalties.
Tint Laws for Passenger Car and Station Wagons in Iowa
In Iowa, the tint laws regulate how dark you can tint the windows of your vehicle. Here are the key regulations for passenger cars and station wagons:
- Windshield Tint: Iowa law allows non-reflective tint along the top four inches of the windshield. It means that only a strip of tinted material is permitted at the top, and it should not extend below the top four inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: The tint darkness on front side windows must allow a minimum of 70% of light to pass through. In other words, the tint must be relatively light and not significantly reduce visibility.
- Rear Side Windows and Rear Window: There are no specific restrictions on tint darkness for the rear side windows and rear windows. You can use any level of tint darkness on these windows.
Note: Some vehicles, such as SUVs, may have different regulations for the rear side windows and rear window if they are classified as trucks. Therefore, it’s advisable to check with local authorities or refer to the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) for precise details.
Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in Iowa
If you own a multi-purpose passenger vehicle or a recreational vehicle in Iowa, the same rules apply. The front side windows must have a VLT of at least 70%, while there are no restrictions on the darkness of the rear side windows and the rear window.
In Iowa, the tint laws for multi-purpose passenger and recreational vehicles (MPVs and RVs) are as follows:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
- Rear Window: Any darkness can be used.
Window Tint Reflection in Iowa - IA Window Tint Law 2023
When it comes to applying window tint in Iowa, understanding the regulations on tint reflection is crucial. Tinted windows can offer benefits like reduced heat and glare, but it’s essential to comply with the state’s guidelines on permissible window reflection levels. Let’s explore the tint reflection rules for sedans and SUVs/Vans in Iowa as of 2023.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front-side windows: In Iowa, the law prohibits using more than 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows of sedans.
Backside windows: Similarly, you must not exceed 35% reflective tint on the back-side windows of sedans.
Tint Reflection for SUV and Vans
- Front-side windows: For SUVs and Vans in Iowa, the law also restricts the use of more than 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows.
Backside windows: Likewise, you are not permitted to use more than 35% reflective tint on the backside windows of SUVs and Vans.
What Are the Window Tint Reflection Laws in Iowa?
In Iowa, the law does not specifically address window tint reflection. However, the regular window tint reflection guidelines in Iowa are as follows:
- Windshield: The windshield must allow at least 70% of light in. There are no restrictions on the reflectiveness of the tint.
- Front Side Windows: The front side windows must allow at least 70% of light in. There are no restrictions on the reflectiveness of the tint.
- Back Side Windows: Any darkness of tint is allowed on the back side windows.
- Rear Window: Any darkness of tint is allowed on the rear window.
Note: The law does not specifically define what constitutes “excessive reflectiveness.” As a result, it is possible that a driver could be cited for having window tint that is not technically illegal, but that law enforcement officers deem to be too reflective.
Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of Iowa You Need to Know
In addition to the VLT requirements, there are a few other window tint laws and regulations in Iowa that you should be aware of.
- Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
- Stickers: Avoid placing stickers that obstruct the driver’s view on the front windows or the windshield.
- Restricted Colors: There are no specific tint color restrictions in Iowa.
- Certificates: Tint darkness must comply with state regulations, and a compliance certificate might be provided upon inspection.
- Penalties: Non-compliance with window tint laws in Iowa may result in fines and potential imprisonment. If you fail to comply with the window tint laws in Iowa, you may face penalties. The first offense is considered a simple misdemeanor, which can result in a fine of up to $50.
- Medical Exemptions: The medical exemptions for window tint rules in Iowa are no longer permitted. This means that if you have a medical condition that requires you to have a darker window tint, you will not be able to get a medical exemption from the Iowa Department of Transportation.
Tint Laws in Iowa- FAQ’s
Is 5% tint legal in Iowa?
No, 5% tint is not legal in Iowa. The front side windows must have a VLT of at least 70%.
Is 20% tint legal in Iowa?
Yes, 20% tint is legal in Iowa. The front side windows must have a VLT of at least 70%.
Is 35% tint legal in Iowa?
Yes, 35% tint is legal in Iowa. The front side windows must have a VLT of at least 70%.
Is 50% tint legal in Iowa?
Yes, 50% tint is legal in Iowa. The front side windows must have a VLT of at least 70%.
Is 75% tint legal in Iowa?
Yes, 75% tint is legal in Iowa. The front side windows must have a VLT of at least 70%.
What is the legal window tint in Iowa?
The legal window tint in Iowa is any level of darkness for the rear side windows and the rear window, as long as the front side windows have a VLT of at least 70%.
What is the darkest legal tint in Iowa?
There is no specific restriction on the darkness of tint for the rear side windows and the rear window in Iowa.
How much is a tint ticket in Iowa?
The fine for a window tint violation in Iowa can be up to $50 for the first offense and up to $100 for subsequent offenses.
Most Important Information about Car Window Tinting
Final Words
Now that you’re armed with the knowledge of tint laws in Iowa, you can confidently make a decision about tinting your vehicle’s windows. Remember to always comply with the law to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Also, get your tint installed by a reputable shop. A reputable shop will use legal tint and will install it correctly.