Louisiana Tint Laws
The Louisiana tint laws detail specific automotive tint laws for various cars and SUVs. Louisiana instituted its car window tinting laws in 1993, setting the standards for permissible tint darkness and reflectivity. To ensure you stay compliant with these regulations, we’ve gathered comprehensive insights into tint darkness, reflectivity, and other vital guidelines concerning window tinting in Louisiana.
Disclaimer
Even though I aced Commercial Law at school and strive to provide accurate and informative content, it’s important to note that I am not a legal expert. The information presented in this blog is based on my interpretation of the subject matter, and laws can vary by location and change over time. It is strongly recommended that readers verify all sources of information and consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities before making any decisions related to tint laws.
Understanding the Terminology Regarding Tint Laws
The most important part of the legislation is understanding what VLT is and how law enforcement services check or test the percentage.
What is VLT
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, is a measure of the amount of visible light that can pass through a window tint or film. It is commonly used to determine the darkness or opacity of window tints, and it’s an important factor in window tinting laws and regulations.
VLT is typically expressed as a percentage. For example, a window tint with a VLT of 20% allows only 20% of visible light to pass through, making it relatively dark and less transparent. Conversely, a window tint with a VLT of 70% allows 70% of visible light to pass through and is much lighter and more transparent.
How do Law Enforcement services test the VLT percentage?
Window tinting laws vary by jurisdiction, and they often specify the maximum allowable VLT for different types of windows on a vehicle, such as the front windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window. These laws are designed to ensure that drivers have adequate visibility and that law enforcement can see into vehicles for safety and identification purposes. The manner that they go about testing the VLT is by using a VLT gauge/meter.
Here is a YouTube Short from @TrafficServices and @TorontoPolice showcasing the device and how it works. Even though it is in Canada, it still is helpful to understand how the tint darkness is measured.
Window Tint Darkness in Louisiana:
In Louisiana, the degree of visible light allowed through your car windows is gauged through VLT, or Visible Light Transmission. These specifications vary based on whether your vehicle is a sedan or an SUV or van.
Louisiana Car Tint Laws For Sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is acceptable above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 5 inches.
- Front Side Windows: Sedans must allow more than 40% of light to penetrate their front side windows.
- Back Side Windows: The back side windows in sedans must allow more than 25% of light to pass through.
- Rear Window: To meet compliance, the rear window must permit more than 12% of light transmission.
Tint Laws For SUVs and Vans in Louisiana:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is permitted above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 5 inches.
- Front Side Windows: SUVs and vans must ensure that more than 40% of light passes through their front side windows.
- Back Side Windows: There are no specific darkness requirements for the back side windows of SUVs and vans.
- Rear Window: SUVs and vans also have the flexibility to use any darkness on their rear window.
It’s essential to note that the tint must not obstruct the view of brake lights in the rear window.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 5 inches | Non-reflective tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 5 inches |
| Front Side Windows | Must allow more than 40% of light to penetrate | Must allow more than 40% of light to pass through |
| Back Side Windows | Must allow more than 25% of light to pass through | No specific darkness requirements |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 12% of light transmission | Any level of darkness acceptable |
Window Tint Reflection in Louisiana:
Tinted windows can reflect incoming light, reducing glare and heat. Louisiana’s tint law sets parameters for window reflection when using tint.
Reflectivity Tint Laws For Both Sedans and SUVs/Vans:
- Front Side Windows: Reflective materials are not allowed to exceed 20% reflectivity on the front side windows.
- Back Side Windows: Similarly, reflective materials should not surpass 20% reflectivity on the back side windows.
Additional Louisiana Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
Louisiana’s window tinting laws encompass various other important regulations:
Side Mirrors
There are no specific regulations regarding side mirrors in Louisiana.
Restricted Colors
Tint colors in red or amber are not permitted.
Certificates
Manufacturers of window tint film must certify the film they sell in the state. Ensure your dealer is using certified film.
Stickers
While not explicitly mandated by law, it’s recommended to have a sticker between the film and glass on the driver’s side window to help identify legal tinting.
Medical Exceptions
Louisiana law does not provide for medical exemptions that would allow the use of special tint.
Regulations for Out-of-State Drivers
The same regulations apply to out-of-state drivers as they do for drivers living in the State.
If you are from States such as Texas, Arkansas, and Mississippi, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Penalties
Violating tinting regulations results in penalties. The fines are $150 for the first offense, $250 for the second offense, and $350 for subsequent offenses.
It’s essential to recognize that interpretations of Louisiana’s tinting laws and regulations may vary according to your county or place of residence. To ensure you’re fully compliant, verify this information with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or law enforcement authorities.
Our records of Louisiana’s window tint laws were most recently updated in 2023. We remain committed to delivering accurate, current information. Should you encounter any inaccuracies or outdated details, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your trust in our resources is invaluable, and we are dedicated to offering the most dependable information available.