Posted By Vinyl Frog On February 13, 2024
Window Tint Laws For Indiana
The window tint laws in Indiana were enacted in 2003. These are less stringent as compared to those in some of the other states but the penalties are hefty if you are found in violation.
Tinting the windows of your vehicle not only enhances the aesthetics by creating a sleek and uniform appearance but also provides practical benefits such as UV protection, a cooler interior, glare reduction, and increased privacy. The degree of darkness can vary based on the tint level chosen by the owner but it must comply with the law of the state.
Hence before you decide to tint your car windows, it's essential to be familiar with and understand the regulations regarding it. In Indiana, the rules governing vehicle sunscreen are primarily focused on the allowable levels of darkness for tinted windows for different vehicles.
Permissible Window Tint Darkness In Indiana
The level of darkness allowed on a window tint is gauged by the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. This refers to the amount of light that passes through the window. If you have a light window tint, their VLT percentage will be high as more light can pass through them.
Window Tint Percentages
The opposite is true for the darker window tints. One with 20% VLT will be quite dark as only 20 percent of light can pass through it. So the lower the VLT, the darker the tint will be. Below is the allowed darkness level of the window tint in Indiana.
Front Windshield
The front windshield is the driver's primary viewing area hence it is important to leave it unobstructed in every way. In Indiana, all types of vehicles, may they be sedans, SUVs, trucks, or vans, are permitted to have a non-reflective window tint above the manufacturer's AS-1 line on the front windshield.
20 Percent Window Tint
Here, it is important to understand what the windshield’s AS-1 line is. It runs parallel to the top of the car’s windshield leaving a space of five inches. You can apply a non-reflective tint of any VLT percentage in Indiana on these topmost 5 inches. No tint is permitted below the AS-1 line.
Front Side Windows
The front side windows, which are the windows beside the driver and front passenger, must allow more than 30% of light to pass through. This law is applied to all vehicles as well.
Back Side And Rear Window
For the rear portion of the vehicle, the rules differ for cars and multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs). The films on the back windows and the rear windshield of the sedans and other passenger vehicles must allow more than 30% of the light to pass through.
70 Percent Window Tint
There is no specific VLT restriction for the rear windows and windshields of MPVs in Indiana. These include vans and SUVs. They can keep any darkness level however, the tint must not cover the whole window. The driver must leave several inches from the top of the window untinted. The exact figure as to how many inches it should be is not specified.
It's vital to keep in mind that these regulations may be subject to change, and it's advisable to check for any updates or amendments to the window tinting laws in Indiana. Also, enforcement of these laws may vary, so it's wise to consult with local authorities or professionals in the field for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Indiana Law Regarding Tint Reflectivity
In order to understand the law, we must first be well-versed in the definition of tint reflectivity. This is the amount of light that bounces off the surface of the tint. A tint with high reflectivity blocks people from seeing inside the vehicle while you can still see out.
A highly reflective tint can pose a hazard on the road. It can reduce visibility from the inside of the vehicle at night, especially if there is a significant contrast in lighting between the interior and exterior. This can make it challenging for the driver to see clearly in low-light conditions.
It can also create glare for other drivers on the road, at times temporarily blinding them, especially if sunlight reflects off the tinted windows. This glare may be distracting and potentially dangerous for those sharing the road.
In Indiana, both the front and rear side windows of all vehicles must not have more than 25% reflectance of visible light. This law includes sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, vans, and so on.
In Indiana, both the front and rear side windows of all vehicles must not have more than 25% reflectance of visible light. This law includes sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, vans, and so on.
Other Window Tinting Rules In Indiana
In Indiana, both the front and rear side windows of all vehicles must not have more than 25% reflectance of visible light. This law includes sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, vans, and so on.
Window Tints Near Me - Get A Affordable Window Tint Today
- There are no color restrictions for window tints in Indiana.
- You don't need a sticker that identifies legal window tint but you should have documentation and a certificate from the installer that proves that the tint is according to the law in the state. It should be carried by the vehicle at all times and produced if questioned by a law enforcement officer.
- There are no specific rules for side mirrors. However, it is imperative that the driver should have both of them functional especially if the back windows are tinted so he can see the road at the back clearly when need be.
- There are no specific rules for side mirrors. However, it is imperative that the driver should have both of them functional especially if the back windows are tinted so he can see the road at the back clearly when need be.
- Manufacturers must certify their tints.
Exemptions In The Window Tint Laws In Indiana
Certain vehicles are exempted from the law such as:
- A military vehicle.
- A motor vehicle owned by a person in the service of the armed forces of the United States.
- A motor vehicle owned by a person employed by the armed forces of the United States.
Medical Exemptions
Vehicles owned by individuals with a medical condition that requires one to be shielded from the direct rays of the sun or in which he or she is a habitual passenger are exempted from the window tint laws in Indiana. They can have a darker tint according to the severity of their condition.
DOCTORS NOTE FOR WINDOW TINT
The medical reasons must be attested by a physician or an optometrist licensed to practice in Indiana, and the certificate must be carried in the vehicle at all times to be produced when stopped by a law enforcement officer. The certificate must be renewed annually.
Penalties In Indiana For Window Tint Law Violations
According to the Indiana State Law, the window tint penalties are either classified as Class A or Class C infractions. Hence you can be fined from $500 to as high as $10,000 depending on how your violation is assessed by the law enforcement authorities.
If you are found in violation of the window tint law and given a ticket, you must pay the fine and either remove the tint altogether or change it to the one that is according to the legally allowed percentage in Indiana to avoid further citations.
Therefore, before investing in window tints for your vehicle, take the time to familiarize yourself with Indiana's regulations to ensure a legal and enjoyable driving experience. Hire the services of a professional who can check the tint percentage and whether it complies with the law or not.
A simple way of checking it yourself is to roll the window halfway down and put your driver’s license on the inside of the tinted window. If you are able to see and read it clearly, you are good to go, if not, your tint is too dark and it might not be according to Indiana State law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
By staying informed and choosing a window tint that is in accordance with the laws and regulations in Indiana, you can drive around the state with confidence and style. Don't let window tinting become an obstacle, choose wisely and get ready to hit the open road with peace of mind.
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