Iowa Window Tinting Laws

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David Lawrence

As you’re driving through Iowa, you coincidentally pass by a car with tinted windows that seem darker than usual. You can’t help but wonder if they’re legal. It’s a good thing you’re curious, because Iowa has specific window tinting laws that drivers must follow to guarantee safe driving conditions.

For instance, did you know that windshields can only have a tint that allows at least 70% of light transmission? But that’s just the tip of the iceberg – there are more regulations to investigate, and understanding them can save you from a hefty fine.

Iowa Window Tinting Laws

Window Tint Darkness in Iowa

Across the Hawkeye State, motorists must adhere to specific window tint darkness regulations to avoid fines and penalties.

You should be aware that Iowa law permits a certain level of window tint darkness on your vehicle’s windows. The allowed tint is measured by the percentage of light transmission, which is the amount of visible light that can pass through the window.

For your windshield, the tint is allowed up to 70% light transmission, meaning at least 70% of the light must pass through. For your front side windows, the tint must allow at least 68% light transmission.

Rear and back side windows have no specific restrictions on window tint darkness.

[carscounsel_tint_calculator show_state=”true” default_state=”IA”]

Window Tint Reflection Rules

Frequently, motorists overlook an essential aspect of Iowa’s window tinting laws: the rules governing window tint reflection.

You should know that Iowa has specific regulations regarding tint reflection to guarantee safe driving conditions.

The state prohibits any tint material that has a reflectance of more than 20% on the side windows.

This means that if you’re planning to tint your side windows, you need to choose a film with a low reflectance.

Additionally, the window tint darkness shouldn’t exceed the allowed limits, as excessive darkness can impair your visibility on the road.

Other Iowa Window Tint Regulations

Now that you’re aware of Iowa’s window tint reflection rules, you’ll also want to familiarize yourself with the state’s other window tint regulations.

These regulations cover various aspects of window tinting, including exemptions and specific window requirements.

  • Side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
  • Rear windows can have any tint darkness, but if the rear window is tinted, the vehicle must have dual side mirrors.
  • A medical exemption is available for individuals who require a darker tint for medical reasons.
  • Tinted windows can’t contain any color or tint that isn’t clear, blue, or colorless.
  • Manufacturers of window tinting films must certify that their products meet Iowa’s window tint regulations.

State of Iowa Information

Getting familiar with Iowa’s window tint laws is crucial to avoid getting fined or having your vehicle impounded. You need to understand the regulations to guarantee your vehicle conforms to the state’s requirements.

WindowTint Darkness Allowed
Front side windows70% light transmission
Back side windowsNo restrictions
Rear windowNo restrictions

Tint Law References and Resources

Your research on Iowa’s window tint laws doesn’t have to stop at understanding the regulations.

You can dig deeper by exploring reliable sources that provide additional information and guidance.

For instance, you can:

  • Visit the Iowa Department of Transportation’s website for the latest updates on window tinting laws and regulations.
  • Check with your local DMV for specific requirements and restrictions in your area.
  • Review the Iowa Code, Title VIII, Chapter 321, which outlines the state’s window tint laws.
  • Consult with a reputable window tinting professional who’s familiar with Iowa’s regulations.
  • Refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website for federal guidelines on window tinting.

Current Window Tint Regulations

Iowa’s roads have strict rules regarding window tinting, and understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid legal issues.

You should be aware that the window tint darkness allowed on your vehicle varies depending on the window.

For your front windshield, only a non-reflective tint with a minimum visible light transmission of 70% is permitted.

Your side windows and rear windshield can have a tint with a minimum visible light transmission of 20%.

Law enforcement officers can stop you if they suspect your window tint is too dark, so it’s essential to guarantee conformity.

Failure to do so may result in fines or penalties.

Proposed Changes to Tint Laws

The Iowa Legislature regularly reviews and revises window tinting regulations to guarantee they align with the state’s safety and security goals.

As you stay updated on the proposed changes to tint laws, you’ll want to know what’s on the table.

The revisions aim to refine the rules and regulations surrounding tint darkness, ensuring it meets the state’s standards.

Some of the proposed changes include:

  • Relaxing the restrictions on tint darkness for certain medical conditions
  • Implementing stricter enforcement of tint laws for commercial vehicles
  • Introducing a new certification process for window tinting professionals
  • Expanding the exemptions for certain types of vehicles, such as classic cars
  • Clarifying the language of the current regulations to reduce confusion

Safety Concerns and Penalties

As you consider window tinting, you should be aware that law enforcement officers have concerns about their safety during traffic stops, as tinted windows can hinder their ability to see inside your vehicle.

This inability to see inside can pose a safety risk, not just for officers, but also for you and other drivers on the road.

Failure to comply with Iowa’s window tint laws can result in penalties, including fines starting at around $50 for a first offense.

Traffic Stop Risks

How do you guarantee your safety during a traffic stop when law enforcement officers can’t see inside your vehicle?

In Iowa, law enforcement officers worry that tinted windows may hinder their ability to safeguard their safety during traffic stops.

To address this concern, Senate File 350 proposes requiring drivers with tinted front windows to lower them during traffic stops.

  • Failure to comply with Iowa’s window tint laws can result in a fine starting at around $50 for a first offense, and may lead to a fix-it ticket.
  • Iowa State Patrol emphasizes that if you can see any tint on the windows, it’s too dark.
  • Front driver and passenger windows must allow at least 70% of light to shine through.
  • Tinted side windows can also pose a safety risk during traffic stops.
  • Protect your safety and avoid penalties by adhering to Iowa’s window tint regulations.

Law Enforcement Concerns

Frequently, law enforcement officers voice concerns about the safety risks associated with tinted windows during traffic stops.

You should be aware that they worry that tinted windows may hinder their ability to guarantee their safety, as they may not be able to see inside vehicles. This inability to see inside vehicles may affect traffic stops and pose a safety issue.

To address these concerns, a proposed bill may require drivers with tinted front windows to lower them during traffic stops.

If you fail to comply with Iowa’s window tint laws, you may receive a fix-it ticket, with fines starting at around $50 for a first offense.

Law enforcement officers’ safety concerns are a key consideration in the legislative process surrounding Iowa’s window tint laws.

WikipediaState website

Tint Law References

Iowa Code Title VIII, Subtitle II, Section 321.438: Windshields and windows. (.pdf file)

Car Window Tinting Laws By State

Click on the state you’re interested in for a complete guide to its tint laws and regulations. If you spot any errors, let us know through our contact page.

StateFront Side WindowsBack Side WindowsRear WindowsWindshield
Alabama32%32%32%6 inches
Alaska70%40%30%5 inches
Arizona33%ANYANYtinting allowed to the top of the manufacturer’s as-1 line
Arkansas25%25%10%5 inches
California70%ANYANY4 inches
Colorado27%27%27%4 inches
Connecticut35%35%ANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Delaware70%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Florida28%15%15%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Georgia32%32%32%6 inches
Hawaii35%35%35%Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield
Idaho35%20%20%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Illinois35%35%35%6 inches
Indiana30%30%30%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Iowa70%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Kansas35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Kentucky35%18%18%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line
Louisiana40%25%12%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Maine35%35%35%top 4 inches
Maryland35%35%35%top 5 inches
Massachusetts35%35%35%top 6 inches
Michigan35%ANYANYtop4 inches
Minnesota50%50%50%Top 6 inches
Mississippi28%28%28%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 5 inches
Missouri35%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Montana24%14%14%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Nebraska24%20%20%top 6 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Nevada35%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
New Hampshire35%35%35%Allowed for the manufacturer’s AS-1 line
New JerseyIllegalANYANYTop 6 inches
New Mexico20%20%20%5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
New York70%70%70%top 6 inches
North Carolina35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
North Dakota50%ANYANYTop 6 inches
Ohio50%ANYANYTop 5 inches
Oklahoma25%ANYANY5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Oregon35%35%35%Top 6 inches
Pennsylvania70%70%70%Top 3 inches
Rhode Island70%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
South Carolina27%27%27%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
South Dakota35%20%20%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Tennessee35%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Texas25%25%25%5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
Utah43%ANYANYnon-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 4 inches
Vermont70%ANYANYILLEGAL
Virginia50%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Washington24%24%24%Top 6 inches
West Virginia35%35%35%Top 5 inches
Wisconsin50%35%35%non-reflective tint above the as-1 line top 6 inches
Wyoming28%28%28%Top 5 inches or as-1 line, whichever comes first
About the author
David Lawrence
David grew up among mechanics and off-road enthusiasts, gaining deep knowledge in car mods, off-roading techniques, and automotive engineering, making him a trusted 4x4 expert.

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