Iowa tint laws were enacted in 1983 and have been revised several times since then.
The laws specify how dark your car’s window tint can be and which windows can be tinted.
These regulations help ensure that drivers can see clearly and law enforcement officers can see inside the vehicle.
Regulations Regarding Window Tint in Iowa
The following are the regulations regarding window tint in Iowa:
| Window Type | Legal Tint Percentage |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Top 4 inches or AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | 70% or more of outside light must pass through |
| Back Side Windows | Any darkness can be used. |
| Rear Window | Any darkness can be used. |
Windshield
The windshield cannot be tinted, except for the top four inches or the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows
Front-side windows must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through.
Back Side Windows
Backside windows can be tinted as dark as you want, but they must allow at least 35% of outside light to pass through.
Rear Window
The rear window can be tinted as dark as you want, but it must allow at least 35% of outside light to pass through if the vehicle was manufactured after January 1, 1983.
Additional Regulations
In addition to the regulations above, Iowa has a few additional regulations regarding window tint:
Reflection
The tint cannot reflect more than 35% of light.
Medical Exemptions
Drivers with certain medical conditions that make them more sensitive to light may be exempt from tinting regulations.
However, they must obtain a certificate from a physician and keep it in their car at all times.
Color Restrictions
Iowa does not have any color restrictions for window tint.
Side Mirrors
If the back window is tinted, the car must have side mirrors on both sides.
Exceptions to Legal Limits
There are a few exceptions to the legal limits on window tint in Iowa.
Vehicles used for medical or funeral purposes may have darker tinting.
Limousines and buses may also have darker tinting on their rear windows.
Penalties for Breaking the Law
If you’re caught driving with illegal window tint in Iowa, you could face fines and other penalties.
Fines
The first offense carries a fine of $50 to $85. The second offense carries a fine of $85 to $165. The third offense carries a fine of $165 to $500.
First Conviction
The first conviction for illegal window tinting in Iowa is a simple misdemeanor.
Second Conviction
The second conviction within five years is an aggravated misdemeanor.
Third Conviction
The third conviction within five years is a Class D felony.
Other Penalties
In addition to fines and criminal charges, drivers with illegal window tint may also have their cars impounded and their licenses suspended.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
If a police officer stops you for illegal window tint, you may be required to remove the tint before you can drive the car again. The officer may also issue a citation and require you to appear in court.
If you’re planning to tint your car’s windows in Iowa, make sure you understand the state’s tint laws.
Follow the regulations outlined above to avoid fines and penalties, and enjoy the benefits of legal window tinting.
If you’re unsure about the legality of your current tint, consider having it checked by a professional tinting service to ensure compliance with Iowa’s regulations.
Can they pull you over for tint in Iowa?
Yes, if the tint is darker than legal limits.
What is the darkest tint allowed?
Back side and rear windows can be tinted as dark as desired, but must allow at least 35% of outside light to pass through.
How dark is 50 tint?
50% tint allows half of outside light to pass through.
Is 20% tint legal in Iowa?
No, front side windows must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through.
What is the windshield law in Iowa?
The windshield cannot be tinted, except for the top four inches or the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
What 70% tint looks like?
Yes, it is illegal to drive with snow on top of your car in Iowa.
Is it illegal in Iowa to drive with a cracked windshield?
It is not illegal to drive with a cracked windshield in Iowa, but it can obstruct the driver’s view.
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iowa