Idaho is known for its rugged natural beauty, and many of its residents take advantage of the stunning views by driving while enjoying the scenery. However, Idaho has strict laws in place regarding tinted windows, so it’s important to understand the regulations before you tint your vehicle. In this blog post, we’ll explore Idaho’s tint laws and how they affect drivers.
Background of Idaho Tint Law
The Idaho tint law was officially enacted in 2004 as part of the Idaho Vehicle Code, with the purpose of improving public safety by reducing the amount of sunlight entering a vehicle and thus reducing the likelihood of driver distraction or fatigue.
The law limits the amount of tint that can be applied to the side and back windows of a vehicle. In addition, the law also requires that any tinting be applied to the windshield in a way that does not block the driver’s view of the road. The law also stipulates that all tinting must be applied by a certified professional in order to ensure quality and safety. All drivers in Idaho must follow the tint law in order to avoid receiving a ticket or other penalties.
Types of Tint Allowed in Idaho
In Idaho, there are several types of tint that are allowed on car windows, including non-reflective, reflective, and factory-tinted. Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the two front side windows, and may not be more than 25% reflective.
Reflective tint is allowed on all windows but must be a minimum of 35% reflective, and may not be more than 50% reflective. Factory tint is allowed but must be at least 28% reflective. All windows are allowed to be tinted, but the amount of tint must meet these requirements.
Additionally, all tints must be applied with a certification sticker. The sticker must be placed on the inside of the driver’s side window in a place that is easily visible from the outside of the vehicle. Failure to comply with these regulations could result in a fine and other penalties.
Window Tint Percentages and Legal Limits
Idaho window tint laws are very specific. The legal limits set by state law dictate the minimum and maximum amount of visible light transmission and reflectivity that are allowed. In Idaho, front-side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through, while rear-side and rear windows must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.
Additionally, the total amount of light reflected by tinted windows must not exceed 25%. These limits are strictly enforced and are in place to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers while on the road.
To ensure compliance, police officers are authorized to measure the light transmission and reflectivity of car windows during traffic stops. Violations of these laws can result in fines or other penalties.
Examining and Verifying Tint Levels
Before a driver can legally tint their vehicle in Idaho, they must first understand the tint laws and regulations. Examining and verifying tint levels is critical to ensure the vehicle complies with state laws.
In order to meet state requirements, the amount of light allowed to pass through the tint must reach a certain level. In Idaho, the front side windows must allow more than 24% of light to pass through, and the rear side and back windows must allow more than 14% of light to pass through.
Additionally, the windshield cannot be tinted above the AS-1 line, which is the manufacturer’s recommended location for the windshield tint strip.
All tinted windows must also be labeled with a sticker that indicates the type of tint used, as well as its light transmission percentage, the company that installed the tint, and the date of installation. By understanding and following these tint laws, drivers in Idaho can ensure their vehicles are in compliance with state regulations.
Exceptions to the Law
Idaho tint laws are stringent and are designed to maximize visibility for drivers and pedestrians alike. However, there are some exceptions to the law that allow for tinted windows on certain vehicles.
The Idaho Transportation Department allows for medical exceptions to the law, allowing for tinted windows if medical documentation is provided and a medical exemption is granted.
Additionally, the law allows for sunroofs and rear windows to be tinted as long as the tint is no more reflective than a 30% VLT. Furthermore, Idaho law allows for tinted windows on pickup trucks, vans, and SUVs as long as the tint is no more reflective than a 35% VLT.
All tinted windows should not be darker than the manufacturer’s standard tint. Lastly, the Idaho Transportation Department allows for tinted windows on limousines if the tint is no more reflective than a 20% VLT.
Overall, there are some exceptions to the law that allows for vehicles to have tinted windows, however, the tint must meet the specific requirements set by the Idaho Transportation Department.
Tips for Following Idaho Window Tint Laws
It is important to be aware of the tint laws in Idaho when considering window tinting for your vehicle. The Idaho tint laws are in place to ensure the safety of all drivers on the road. To ensure compliance with Idaho tint laws, it is important to understand the regulations and follow them accordingly. The following tips can help you stay in compliance with Idaho window tint laws.
Firstly, it is important to understand the legal limits for window tints in Idaho. The legal limits for the front windshield and windows are 35% VLT, while the back windshield and back side windows must have at least 20% VLT.
Secondly, it is important to consider the type of film you are using. The window film you choose must be non-reflective and clear to be in compliance with Idaho tint laws. Additionally, the window film must have a certification sticker that states it meets the Idaho window tint standards.
Lastly, it is important to be aware of any additional restrictions in your city or county. These restrictions may limit the type of window tinting that is allowed and may require a permit for certain types of tinting.
By understanding and following the Idaho tint laws, you can ensure that your vehicle is properly tinted and compliant with local regulations.
Conclusion
Idaho tint laws are relatively lenient compared to other states. As long as the tint is within the legal limits, drivers in Idaho can enjoy the benefits of tinted windows without fear of breaking the law. While it is important to keep in mind that the tint should not be too dark, the overall regulations are quite reasonable and should not be a deterrent to those considering applying tint to their vehicles.
The benefits of tinted windows, such as improved privacy, reduced heat, and enhanced aesthetics, make it a popular choice for many Idaho drivers. As long as the tint is within the legal limits, drivers can enjoy the benefits without worry.
