South Dakota Tint Laws
Since 1989, South Dakota has implemented a set of regulations governing car window tinting, specifying permissible Visible Light Transmission (VLT) levels and other crucial factors. We’ve meticulously detailed South Dakota’s window tinting guidelines, encompassing aspects such as tint darkness, reflectivity, and other relevant stipulations.
Disclaimer
While I have a background in commercial law 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 South Dakota:
VLT, denoting Visible Light Transmission, represents the percentage of visible light allowed through your vehicle’s windows. The prescribed VLT percentages vary according to the type of vehicle – sedans, SUVs, or vans. Here’s an overview:
South Dakota Car Tint Law For Sedans:
- Windshield: South Dakota allows non-reflective tint above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: These must permit more than 35% of light.
- Back Side windows: The regulation mandates allowing more than 20% of light.
- Rear Window: Similar to back side windows, the rear window should allow more than 20% of light.
Tint Law For SUVs and Vans in South Dakota:
- Windshield: The same rules apply to SUVs and vans as to sedans, allowing non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line.
- Front Side windows: These windows, too, must allow more than 35% of light.
- Back Side windows: The requirement here is to permit more than 20% of light.
- Rear Window: The standards for the rear window match those for back side windows, necessitating more than 20% of light to pass through.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line | Non-reflective tint above AS-1 line |
| No specific VLT percentage provided | No specific VLT percentage provided | |
| Front Side Windows | Must allow more than 35% of light | Must allow more than 35% of light |
| Back Side Windows | Must allow more than 20% of light | Must allow more than 20% of light |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 20% of light | Must allow more than 20% of light |
Window Tint Reflection in South Dakota:
Window tints can serve a dual purpose, reflecting incoming light and mitigating glare and heat. South Dakota’s window tint law sets a clear directive in this regard. For both sedans and SUVs/vans, the law states that front and back side windows must not exhibit a metallic or mirrored appearance.
Additional South Dakota Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
South Dakota’s window tinting laws encompass several other important rules and regulations:
Side Mirrors
South Dakota imposes no restrictions on side mirrors, providing leeway in this aspect.
Restricted Colors
The regulations do not explicitly restrict specific colors of tint, providing a degree of flexibility in this regard.
Tint Variance
South Dakota allows a 9% variance in light transmission.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are mandated to certify the film they sell in South Dakota. However, it is advisable to confirm this information with your dealer.
Stickers
The law mandates a sticker to identify legal tinting, positioned between the film and glass on each tinted window.
Medical Exceptions
Notably, South Dakota’s window tint laws do not accommodate medical exemptions that would permit the use of special car window tint.
Regulations for Out-of-State Drivers
The same regulations apply to out-of-state drivers as those for drivers living in the State.
If you are from States such as Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, and North Dakota, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Penalties
Non-compliance with tinting regulations in South Dakota may result in a Class 2 misdemeanor.
It’s imperative to acknowledge that the interpretation of South Dakota’s tinting laws and regulations can vary depending on your county or place of residence. For complete assurance of adherence, we highly recommend cross-verifying this information with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or law enforcement authorities.
Our records of South Dakota’s window tint laws were most recently updated in 2023. We remain steadfast in our commitment to offer precise and current information. If you come across any inaccuracies or outdated information, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your trust in our resources is of utmost importance, and we are fully devoted to delivering the most trustworthy information available.