As you drive through the Mount Rushmore State, bear in mind that the “land of infinite variety” has its own set of rules regarding window tinting.
You might think you’re keeping the sun out of your eyes with those dark windows, but South Dakota takes road safety seriously. Did you know that failing to comply with the state’s tint laws can lead to more than just a slap on the wrist? In fact, you could be facing fines, penalties, and even license suspension.
But what exactly are the laws, and how can you confirm you’re on the right side of them?
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South Dakota Window Tint Darkness
In regards to window tint darkness in South Dakota, there are specific regulations you need to be aware of to certify your vehicle confirms to the law.
As pertains to the Visible Light Transmission percentage (VLT%), it measures the darkness of tint, referring to the percentage of visible light allowed to pass through the combination of film and factory window tint.
For passenger vehicles, front side windows must allow more than 35% of light in, while rear windows must allow more than 20% of light in.
Multi-purpose vehicles have more flexible window tint darkness regulations, with back side windows able to have any darkness applied several inches from the top.
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.
Tint Reflection Regulations Explained
Tint reflection regulations in South Dakota guarantee your vehicle’s window film doesn’t pose a safety risk by creating glare for other drivers. These regulations are in place to certify your car window tint doesn’t compromise the safety of others on the road.
Window | Tint Reflection Limit | Description |
---|---|---|
Front Side | No metallic or mirrored finish | Avoids glare for oncoming traffic |
Back Side | No metallic or mirrored finish | Prevents glare for drivers behind you |
Rear Window | No restrictions | No glare concerns for rear window |
Vehicle Type Tint Restrictions
You’ve likely guaranteed your window tint doesn’t create glare for other drivers by complying with South Dakota’s tint reflection regulations.
Now, it’s essential to understand the specific tint restrictions for your vehicle type. In South Dakota, sedans require front side windows to allow more than 35% of light in, and back side and rear windows to let in over 20% light.
However, multi-purpose vehicles like vans and SUVs have different rules, with back side windows allowing any darkness applied several inches from the top.
Remember, the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage measures the darkness of tint, with a higher percentage indicating lighter tint.
Verify you comply with the correct VLT percentage for your vehicle type to avoid any issues.
Confirm you have the proper tint darkness to steer clear of problems.
Window Tint Certification Requirements
When getting your windows tinted in South Dakota, you’ll want to guarantee the film used meets the state’s certification requirements.
This means the manufacturer must test the film to verify it meets the state’s visible light transmission and reflectivity standards, and then provide a sticker to identify legal tinting on each window.
Film Certification Process
The manufacturer’s conformity assessment guarantees that window films meet South Dakota’s strict standards.
You should know that this process involves film certification, which is a vital step in ensuring compliance.
Manufacturers must certify the film they sell, verifying that it meets the required standards. This certification is required between the film and glass on each window, ensuring that the film is safe and meets visibility standards.
By certifying their products, manufacturers demonstrate that their window films comply with South Dakota’s regulations.
This process provides assurance that the window films you purchase meet the state’s strict standards, giving you peace of mind and protecting you from potential fines or penalties.
Manufacturer Requirements
South Dakota’s window tint laws hold manufacturers accountable for verifying their products meet the state’s strict standards.
As a manufacturer, you need to certify the film you sell in South Dakota to guarantee compliance with state window tint laws.
- Film manufacturers must certify the film they sell in South Dakota to guarantee compliance with state window tint laws.
- Certification is required to guarantee the film meets the state’s Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage standards for different vehicle types.
- Manufacturers must provide documentation to prove their film meets South Dakota’s tint darkness requirements, which vary for passenger vehicles, multi-purpose vehicles, and other types of vehicles.
- The certification process involves testing the film to verify it doesn’t exceed the allowed VLT percentage for each type of vehicle.
- Failure to certify the film can result in legal consequences for manufacturers, including fines and penalties, and may also lead to the film being deemed illegal in the state of South Dakota.
State Compliance Rules
Most window tint manufacturers understand that certifying their products is crucial to guarantee compliance with South Dakota’s strict window tint laws.
You should know that certification is required to confirm that the window tint film meets the state’s Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage requirements.
In South Dakota, legal tinting is required, and Window: Must allow a certain percentage of visible light allowed to pass through.
Certification is required to validate that the film meets these standards, including reflectivity standards, which prohibit metallic or mirrored appearances on front and back side windows.
Failure to certify may result in legal penalties, and products may not be legally sold or installed in South Dakota.
Sticker and Labeling Requirements
You’ll need to guarantee your vehicle’s window tint complies with South Dakota’s sticker and labeling requirements.
This verifies that your tint is legal and meets the state’s standards. Failure to comply can result in fines or penalties.
The key sticker and labeling requirements to keep in mind:
- A sticker to identify legal window tint must be displayed on the driver’s side window.
- The label must be visible and easily readable from the outside of the vehicle.
- The sticker should reflect the level of tint allowed on your vehicle’s windows.
- The Side window tint label should indicate the level of tint on the side windows.
- Only stickers and labels provided by the manufacturer or authorized dealer are allowed.
Medical Exemptions and Exceptions
You won’t find any special provisions for medical exemptions in South Dakota‘s window tinting laws.
Unlike some other states, South Dakota doesn’t allow exemptions for individuals with certain medical conditions. You’ll need to comply with the state’s standard window tinting regulations, as there are no exceptions or allowances for health conditions.
Medical Exemptions Process
Obtaining a medical exemption for window tint in South Dakota can be a murky process, as the state’s laws fail to provide clear guidelines on the requirements and procedures involved.
You’re left to navigate the process on your own, which can be frustrating.
However, there are resources available to help.
- You can consult with legal experts or authorities for specific guidance on the process.
- MyEyeRx.net provides online guidance on obtaining a medical exemption for window tint, with Toriano Dewberry assisting clients remotely.
- You can fill out a pre-screening form on MyEyeRx.net to discover if you’re eligible for a medical exemption.
- Schedule a pre-consultation to discuss your tinting needs with an expert.
- Remember, South Dakota window tint law doesn’t explicitly mention the process or requirements for obtaining a medical exemption, so be prepared to do some research.
Exceptions for Health Conditions
South Dakota’s stance on medical exemptions for window tint is clear-cut: there aren’t any.
Unlike some states, South Dakota doesn’t permit exemptions for certain medical conditions. You won’t find any specific terms or conditions under state law for medical exemptions, as they aren’t allowed.
If you have a medical condition that requires special tinting, you’ll need to comply with the standard South Dakota window tint laws.
The state doesn’t provide guidelines or procedures for obtaining a medical exemption, as it’s not an option.
Medical exemptions for special tint aren’t mentioned in the South Dakota Codified Laws sections 32-15-2.4 through 32-15-5, which govern window tinting laws in the state.
Cost and Consequences of Non-Compliance
Getting caught with non-compliant window tint in South Dakota can be costly, with legal consequences that go beyond just a fine.
You could face traffic violations, legal penalties, and insurance implications if you exceed tint durability or have a cracked windshield.
Ensuring your window tint adheres to South Dakota’s laws is vital to avoid these consequences.
- Fines and penalties for non-compliance
- Points on your driver’s license
- Insurance implications and potential rate increases
- Legal penalties, including traffic violations
- Safety risks and compromised visibility on the road
State-Specific Window Tint Rules
Your vehicle’s windows are subject to specific regulations in South Dakota, and understanding these rules is crucial for compliance.
In the context of sedans and SUVs, front side windows must allow more than 35% of light in, while rear windows must allow more than 20% of light in, as per the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) requirements.
Non-reflective tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line on windshields, and there are no restrictions on metallic or mirrored appearance for front side and rear windows.
Additionally, film manufacturers must certify their products, and a sticker identifying legal tinting is required on each tinted window.
With a 9% variance in tint darkness allowed, you’ll want to guarantee your window tint meets the state’s specific rules and regulations.
Tint Law Enforcement and Penalties
If you’re caught driving with illegally tinted windows in South Dakota, you can expect law enforcement to take action.
You’ll face fines ranging from $25 to $100 for a first offense, and repeat offenders may see higher fines and even misdemeanor charges.
Failure to comply with window tint laws can lead to additional penalties, including increased insurance rates and potential license suspension.
Tint Law Violations
When you’re pulled over for a tint law violation in South Dakota, you can expect law enforcement to take it seriously.
Failure to comply with the state’s window tint laws can result in serious consequences. As the vehicle owner, it’s your responsibility to guarantee compliance, and ignorance of the law isn’t a valid defense.
- A tint law violation can result in a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
- Law enforcement officers are authorized to stop and inspect vehicles suspected of violating window tint laws, and can issue citations or warnings for non-compliance.
- Failure to comply can also result in vehicle impoundment or immobilization until the tint is corrected.
- Repeat offenders may face increased penalties, including higher fines and longer jail sentences.
- It’s essential to understand South Dakota’s window tint laws to avoid these consequences.
Penalty for Non-Compliance
Violating South Dakota’s window tint laws can lead to serious consequences.
If you’re caught with non-compliant window tint, you may face a Class 2 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
Additionally, you’ll receive points on your driver’s license, which can impact your insurance rates and driving privileges.
Law enforcement can stop you solely for violating window tint laws and issue warnings or citations as they see fit.
Repeat offenders will face stiffer penalties, including higher fines, longer jail sentences, and mandatory community service or driver’s education courses.
You’ll also be required to remove the non-compliant tint at your own expense.
To avoid these penalties, guarantee you comply with South Dakota’s window tint laws.
Manufacturer and Installer Guidelines
To guarantee compliance with South Dakota’s window tint laws, film manufacturers and installers must follow specific guidelines.
You, as a manufacturer or installer, play a vital role in verifying that your products and services meet the state’s requirements.
- Film manufacturers must certify their products, providing a sticker to identify legal tinting on each window.
- Certificates serve as proof of compliance with South Dakota’s window tint laws and regulations.
You should stay knowledgeable about South Dakota’s specific tint laws, including VLT percentages, reflective tint regulations, and medical exemption rules.
– Manufacturers and installers must stay up-to-date with the latest changes to South Dakota’s window tint laws, which were last updated in 2024.