As you hit the Louisiana roads, you’re likely to notice a variety of window tint shades on vehicles. But do you know what’s legally allowed? You might be surprised to learn that the Bayou State has specific regulations for sedans, SUVs, and vans.
For instance, sedans require at least 40% visible light transmission on front side windows, while SUVs and vans have more flexibility in regard to rear window tint darkness. But that’s just the beginning – there’s more to understand about Louisiana’s window tinting laws to guarantee you’re driving legally and safely. What else do you need to know in this respect?
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Understanding Louisiana Tint Laws
When it pertains to understanding Louisiana tint laws, one essential aspect to grasp is the varying degrees of window tint darkness allowed for different types of vehicles.
You’ll find that sedans, SUVs, and vans have distinct regulations. For sedans, front side windows must allow at least 40% of visible light transmission (VLT), while rear side windows and rear windows can have a minimum VLT of 25% and 12%, respectively.
SUVs and vans, on the other hand, have more lenient regulations, with no restrictions on rear side and rear window tint darkness.
Understanding these differences is pivotal to guarantee your Louisiana window tinting is legal and avoids fines.
Automotive Window Tint Simulator
Move the slider above to see how dark the tint will look. Usually, the actual tint will appear with 0-5% variation than what you see here.
Window Tint Darkness Regulations
You’ll need to ponder the specific window tint darkness regulations in Louisiana, which vary depending on the type of vehicle you own.
For sedans, you’re allowed to have a maximum tint darkness of 40% on your front side windows, 25% on your rear side windows, and 12% on your rear window.
Knowing these limits is vital to guarantee you’re in compliance with the law and avoiding potential fines and safety hazards.
Sedan Window Tint Rules
Your sedan’s windows are a critical aspect of your daily commute, and in Louisiana, there are specific rules governing how dark they can be.
In terms of window tinting in Louisiana, sedans have different regulations than larger vehicles.
As regards front window tinting for your sedan, the tint must allow more than 40% of light to pass through, with a reflectivity of no more than 20%.
The rear window can be tinted down to a darkness of 12% VLT or greater, while the back side windows can be tinted down to a darkness of 25% VLT or greater.
Additionally, non-reflective tint is permitted on the windshield above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 5 inches.
Front Side Window Limits
Two critical aspects of sedan window tinting in Louisiana are the front side window limits and the darkness regulations that govern them.
As regards your side windows, you need to be aware of the VLT (Visible Light Transmission) requirements.
The top 5 inches of your front side window must have a minimum VLT of 25%, which is considered a legal VLT. This means that only 25% or less of the light can be blocked by the window film.
Additionally, the AS-1 line on your window serves as a demarcation point, indicating where the tint can begin. Verify you comply with these regulations to avoid any issues with law enforcement.
Rear Window Tint Allowance
Beyond the front side window limits, Louisiana’s window tinting laws also specify the rear window tint allowance.
In terms of the rear window, you’re allowed to install a tint with a VLT (Visible Light Transmission) of 25% or higher. This means the tint can block up to 75% of the sun’s light, providing you with more privacy and protection from the sun’s glare.
In regards to the rear window, the tint darkness regulations are less restrictive than those for the front side windows. As long as the tint is allowed above the manufacturers’ AS-1 line, you’re good to go.
This means you can choose a tint that allows a higher percentage of light to pass through, giving you more flexibility when selecting a Louisiana window tint for your vehicle.
Tint Reflection and Glare Control
Controlling glare from your vehicle’s windows is crucial to guarantee a safe driving experience.
In Louisiana, the state has specific regulations regarding tint reflection and glare control.
As regards window tint, you need to certify it’s non-reflective and doesn’t obstruct your view.
The AS-1 line on the film indicates the point where the tint begins, and it shouldn’t be more than 5% reflective.
The VLT (Visible Light Transmission) should also meet the state’s standards.
To avoid glare, the tint film should be installed in a way that doesn’t create a mirror-like effect.
Other Important Tinting Rules
Now that you’ve verified your window tint meets Louisiana’s reflection and glare control standards, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with additional rules to avoid any potential issues.
Certify your Louisiana tint has a VLT of at least 25% on the front side windows and 12% on the back side and rear windows.
The AS-1 line on the windshield is the dividing point for different tint colors.
Law enforcement can pull you over if they suspect your tint is too dark.
If you have a medical exemption, you’ll need to carry a doctor’s note in your vehicle.
Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield, but it’s essential to guarantee the rules to avoid fines or penalties.
Compliance and Enforcement Measures
You’ll want to certify you’re complying with Louisiana’s window tinting laws to avoid getting pulled over or fined.
In terms of compliance, the most important thing to remember is the VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentage. For passenger vehicles, the front side windows must have a VLT of at least 25%, and the rear side windows and rear window must have a VLT of at least 12%.
Louisiana law requires that the film used for legal tinting must certify that it meets these standards. Additionally, the AS-1 line on the window must be visible, indicating that the tint is compliant.
Make sure to check your window tint regularly to verify it meets these requirements and avoid any potential issues.
Penalties for Noncompliance
If you’re caught driving with illegal window tint in Louisiana, be prepared to face the consequences.
For a first offense, you’ll receive a warning, and you’ll need to correct the noncompliance by installing legal tinting that meets the state’s VLT percentage requirements.
However, if you’re caught again, you’ll face a second offense, which comes with a fine of up to $500.
Repeat offenders can expect even stiffer penalties.
Failure to comply with Louisiana state window tinting laws can result in fines, penalties, and even court appearances.
Don’t risk it – guarantee your vehicle’s window tint meets the legal standards to avoid these consequences.
Exemptions and Special Cases
Certain vehicle owners and drivers are exempt from Louisiana’s window tinting laws, or may be subject to special cases that affect their compliance obligations.
For instance, you’re exempt if you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint. You’ll need a doctor’s note to prove it, though.
Manufacturers are also exempt when testing new tints. Additionally, some vehicles, like those with a non-reflective tint applied before 1993, are grandfathered in.
To guarantee compliance, look for a sticker to identify legal tinting on your vehicle’s windshield. The AS-1 line on the sticker indicates the Visible Light Transmission percentage, which must meet Louisiana’s legal standards.
Tint Law References
Medical Exemption Info
Louisiana Laws – RS 32:361.2 – Medical exemption
Louisiana Window Tint Medical Exemption Affidavit (.pdf file)
