All You Need to Know About Window Tint Laws in Iowa

Iowa Window Tint Laws: An Overview

In Iowa, the laws on window tinting follow a general guideline: window tinting is allowed as long as it complies with levels set by the state. Iowa law does allow for darker tints to be applied to sedans, SUVs, and trucks, providing that the tint is nowhere darker than legally permitted. Iowa has a number of exceptions to this rule, primarily based upon the type of vehicle and window in question.
If you are thinking of having a vehicle tinted in Iowa, in order to avoid citations for having window tint that is darker or too dark you should familiarize yourself with some terms. VLT stands for visible light transmission, and refers to the amount of light that enters the car in a percentage. A higher VLT corresponds to a tint that is lighter, and a lower VLT corresponds to a tint that is darker.
Iowa restricts tinting on the front windshield, front side windows , back side windows, rear window, and on all reflective tint and products. Iowa has a lighter tint limit for sedans, and a darker tint limit for SUVs, vans, and trucks. When it comes to tinting the windows of a sedan in Iowa, the tint must adhere to 70% VLT for the windshield, and 70% VLT on the front side windows. Aftermarket tinting on the front side windows of a sedan is NOT permitted. All other windows may have a tint that has a VLT of 70%, or no reflective material.
When it comes to tinting the windows of an SUV, van, or truck in Iowa, the tint must adhere to 70% VLT on the windshield with an allowable strip of no less than 4 inches from the top edge. No tint at all is permitted on the front side windows of a vehicle, but all other windows may adhere to whatever tint the driver prefers as long as it does not have a reflective coating.

Why Do Iowa Tint Laws Exist?

Although tinted windows offer many benefits, such as enhanced privacy and UV protection, they are also subject to strict regulations. In Iowa, the rationale behind window tint regulations is primarily rooted in safety concerns, law enforcement needs, driver visibility, and ensuring compliance with transportation regulations.
Iowa law requires that front side windows have a minimum of 70% light transmittance, while back side windows must allow at least 70% of light through. These regulations help to ensure that law enforcement officials can easily identify the occupants of a vehicle, even in low light conditions. Furthermore, darkly tinted front side windows can reduce forward vision, which increases the risk of accidents. Not only can limited visibility create hazards for the driver, it can also pose a danger to other road users, especially when making turns at intersections.
The need for compliance with federal transportation regulations is another important reason behind window tint regulations in Iowa. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued guidelines for the function and condition of windows, including tint limits, to help minimize the risk of accidents. Law enforcement officers across the state work to enforce these regulations to keep all drivers safe on Iowa roads.
Although the reasons for window tint regulations in Iowa are clear, it is also important for drivers to know what is required. Complying with Iowa’s tint requirements is essential for avoiding potential fines or violations.

Iowa’s Tint Laws Penalties

The consequences of having illegal window tint on your vehicle can be an expensive proposition. The first and most obvious consequence is the fine you may receive for violating the law. If stopped and given a citation, the fine amounts to $127. That may not seem like a lot of money. However, if you are stopped frequently and issued that same citation, the fines will begin to add up quickly. But it is not just monetary fines and penalties that can impact your bottom line.
Many insurance companies will not pay for any damages caused by an accident if you are operating a vehicle with illegal window tint. They consider any actions which violate the law or go against their insurance regulations as invalidating your coverage. In addition, companies like car rental agencies will refuse to rent a vehicle if you have illegal window tint and will require you to remove it prior to the rental. If you work as a chauffeur, taxi, or other for hire driver, you may not only be fined but the violation can result in suspension of licensure required to operate.

How to Make Sure the Tint Is Legal

To ensure compliance with Iowa’s tint regulations, vehicle owners can take several steps. First, it is important to purchase and install window film that meets state standards. Most tint manufacturers provide online tools or charts to determine the shade that is appropriate for personal vehicles based on state DPSS requirements.
Once a tint has been installed, an owner can check the darkness of the window tint using special light meters available at many car accessory retailers. Another option is to take the vehicle to a local sheriff’s office for testing. If a violation occurs, officers are not authorized under Iowa law to remove or cut the tint substrate material; however, a vehicle owner may be given a grace period in which the tinted windows must be replaced or removed. It is not uncommon for issues to arise if a vehicle has been tinted in another state and is then brought to Iowa for use as a passenger vehicle . In those situations, a vehicle owner should either replace the tint material altogether or utilize a cutting tool to remove the tinted material to bring the windows into compliance with Iowa’s DPSS.
Another way to ensure compliance with Iowa’s window tint regulations is to select a reputable tinting service. For example, tinting services generally guarantee that they will only install window tint that meets DPSS standards. Moreover, many tinting companies will conduct a yearly DPSS inspection at no additional charge, ensuring the owner that the tint is always compliant with the law. Finally, a company that provides a guarantee, such as a lifetime warranty, often has in-house technicians that are able to repair or replace the tint if issues arise. When deciding on a tinting company, vehicle owners should research the company by making sure the BBB recognizes it and verifying that the company has a physical address within the state of Iowa.

FAQS Regarding Iowa Window Tint

Window tint is legal in Iowa, but not every aspect of it. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about window tinting, to help you avoid any potential mistakes on your vehicle.

– What kind of tint can I have on my car?

Cars in Iowa can have both window film and dark tint on the front windows. Rear windows can have heavy tint if the car is a van, SUV or crossover, but those cannot be covered in window film. Window film cannot be used on the windshield.

– Can I have window film made to look just like tinted windows?

No, window film must have a certain level of reflectivity that causes the "mirror" effect. Custom tint, on the other hand, must be strictly transparent and cannot have any color or light emitted from them, so they are allowed on the windshield. Generally, the manufacturer of the tint can have stickers that detail the tint percentage so there’s no question about whether it’s dark enough to meet state laws.

– Does Iowa require any type of window tint sticker for identification?

Not in the state of Iowa, so if you’re applying for a tint exemption permit, be sure to get the necessary stickers.

– How do I get an exemption permit?

The permit is acquired through the Iowa Department of Transportation. There is a small fee and they require a copy of the registered owner’s driver’s license or state ID, a stamped envelope and the license plate number of the vehicle. You provide all that information on a form and send it to their address. You’ll get a sticker sent back to you that should be placed on the windshield on the driver’s side lower corner.

– What happens if I’m pulled over for tinted windows?

The officer will test the windows using their tint meter. If your tint passes the test, you’ll be on your way. If it doesn’t, you may have to take further action to reduce the tint on your car, such as removing some of the tint or replacing with a lower transmittance tint, before getting retested. Depending on the officer in question, you might be asked to follow them to a mechanic shop to verify the content of the tint and replace it on-site, to avoid the need for multiple trips.

Future of Iowa Window Tint Laws

As the technology behind window films continues to evolve, there is always the possibility that regulations may adjust in consequence. Whether this occurs in Iowa remains to be seen, but the future is always a topic of discussion in the legislative process.
For now, such adjustments have been limited to a level that has had a material impact on the state regulations. One minor change made in 2017 was reflective – it allowed for reflective materials to be used on the front windshield in the upper six inches in tandem with other regulatory parameters . As window film continues to see improvements in functionality (i.e. energy efficiency) and aesthetics, the possibility of adding these materials either to certain areas of the window or other windows entirely could be discussed. In addition, as technologies that add to driving safety become more prevalent, so too could the regulations. Such changes are not outside the realm of possibility as the industry evolves and as state and federal regulators work together with manufacturers and consumers alike to find the appropriate balance.