Idaho DMV Tint Laws: Window Percentage, Legal Standards & Insurance Guide

Key Points

• In Idaho, front side windows can have a tint with a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) of 35%.
• Back side windows and rear windows can be tinted down to 20% VLT for multi-purpose vehicles.
• Reflective tints must not exceed 35% reflectivity on any window.
• Medical exemptions are available for individuals with specific health conditions, allowing for darker tints.
• Non-compliance with tint laws can result in penalties and affect insurance claims.

Idaho DMV Tint Laws: Window Percentage, Legal Standards & Insurance Guide

Understanding Idaho Window Tinting Laws

It is important to understand the window tinting laws in Idaho to ensure road safety and compliance with state regulations. These laws are designed to balance the need for privacy and protection from the sun for the driver, with the need to maintain visibility for safe driving.

Idaho has strict rules about how dark or reflective your car windows can be. The rules change depending on what type of car you have and which window you’re tinting. We’ll break down these rules so you know what’s what.

Rules for Window Tint Percentages

The amount of light that your window tint lets through is called the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. In Idaho, the VLT percentages for different types of vehicles and windows are clearly outlined.

For instance, the front side windows need to let in more light than the rear windows. This is so that drivers can have a clear view of their surroundings, which is essential for safe driving.

Exact Window Tint Percentages for Various Vehicles

For Sedans

Sedans have unique rules that are different from other vehicle types. For front side windows, the tint must allow over 35% of light in. This level of tinting strikes a balance between privacy and visibility.

The back side windows and the rear window can be tinted darker, but they must still let in over 20% of the light. This is so that the driver can see out of these windows clearly, especially when it’s dark or there’s not much light.

SUVs and Vans

The laws for SUVs and vans are a bit more forgiving than those for sedans. The front side windows still need to let in more than 35% of light. However, the back side windows and the rear window can be tinted to 20% VLT. This provides more privacy and shields from the sun’s glare, which is especially helpful for larger vehicles.

Regulations on Reflectivity and Color

Reference:

https://www.cartintlaw.com/idaho/

Limits on Reflective Tint

Idaho has regulations not just on how dark the tint can be, but also on its reflectiveness. Reflective tints can help to cut down on glare and heat, but if they are too reflective, they can cause problems with visibility for other drivers.

Idaho law mandates that the tint on both front and back side windows can’t have a reflectivity that exceeds 35%. This limit is in place to ensure that the tint provides the benefits of reduced glare and heat, while still not compromising safety.

Acceptable Tint Colors

Idaho is pretty laid back when it comes to tint colors. While some states prohibit certain colors like red, yellow, or amber, Idaho doesn’t place any restrictions on tint colors. So, you can select any color tint for your car, as long as it complies with the reflectivity and VLT requirements.

When selecting a tint color, it’s important to think about visibility. Darker colors may make it more difficult to see out of the windows at night. Safety should always come before aesthetics when choosing your tint color.

Exemptions for Medical Reasons

In Idaho, there are medical exemptions available for people who need darker window tints due to certain medical conditions. These exemptions permit window tints that are darker than the usual legal limits, offering extra protection from the harmful rays of the sun.

Getting a Medical Exemption

If you have a health condition that requires you to have darker window tints, you may qualify for a medical exemption. Conditions that might make you eligible include lupus, albinism, or severe photosensitivity.

First, you should talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They will evaluate your health and decide if you meet the requirements for a medical exemption based on your unique health situation.

What You’ll Need

After your doctor has given you the green light for a medical exemption, you’ll need to collect the appropriate paperwork. This usually means getting a signed note from your doctor that explains your medical condition and why you need darker window tints. For more details, you can refer to Idaho Window Tinting Laws.

Afterward, you will provide this paperwork to the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for evaluation. If they approve it, you will get a permit that lets you put darker tints on your car’s windows.

Legal and Insurance Consequences

Window tinting can make your car look and feel cooler, but it can also have serious legal and insurance consequences. It’s important to understand how tinting laws can affect your insurance and what kind of legal trouble you could get into if you don’t comply.

How it Affects Your Insurance

Your insurance company takes many things into account when deciding your rates and coverage. One of those things is whether your car is in line with state laws, including those about window tinting.

Having your vehicle’s tint within the legal limits shouldn’t impact your insurance policy in a bad way. But if your tint is beyond the legal limits, you might be looking at higher premiums or even a denial of coverage. Insurance companies might see tinting that isn’t compliant as a risk factor, since it could make visibility worse and make accidents more likely.

• Make sure your tint is within the law to keep your premiums low.
• Ask your insurance company about their rules for window tinting.
• Have your medical exemption paperwork handy to show your insurance company if necessary.

What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Law

If you don’t follow Idaho’s window tinting laws, you could face a number of legal problems. These could be anything from fines and penalties to problems with your vehicle inspection and registration renewal.

Police officers can pull over cars that they suspect have illegal window tints. If they determine that your tint doesn’t comply with the law, you could be ticketed and ordered to remove or modify the tint so that it is legal. If you are caught multiple times, the penalties can become more severe, including higher fines and possible points on your driver’s license. For more details, you can refer to the Idaho Window Tinting Laws.

How to Choose the Right Tint

There’s more to choosing the right window tint than just picking a color or shade. It’s important to consider several factors to make sure your tint is in compliance with Idaho’s laws and fits your personal needs.

Things to Keep in Mind for Legal Adherence

It’s important to remember the law when you’re choosing a window tint. Make sure the tint’s VLT percentage and reflectivity follow Idaho’s laws. This will help you avoid legal problems and keep your car legal to drive.

In addition to meeting legal requirements, you should also consider the quality and durability of the tint. While higher-quality tints may cost more initially, they can save you money over time by lasting longer and offering better protection.

Choosing a Place for Window Tinting

It’s important to choose a reliable place for your window tinting. You want to make sure the tinting is done right and meets Idaho’s legal requirements. Here are some suggestions on where to go:

Start by searching for tinting shops that are certified. These types of shops are more likely to know the laws of the state and use materials of high quality. They may also be able to give you proof that your tint meets the regulations of Idaho.

Common Mistakes and How to Prevent Them

Despite having the best intentions, it’s not uncommon to make mistakes when tinting your windows. Here are some typical blunders and how to prevent them:

Window Tinting Misconceptions

There’s a common myth that the darker the tint, the better it is. Dark tints do offer more privacy, but they also decrease visibility, particularly at night. It’s crucial to find a balance between your desire for privacy and your safety needs. For more information on legal standards, check out the Wisconsin DMV tint laws.

Many people believe that all tinting films are identical, but this is not the case. The quality of tinting films can differ greatly. While higher-quality films may be more expensive, they provide better UV protection and are more durable.

Finally, some individuals may think that medical exemptions are easy to come by. However, while Idaho does provide medical exemptions, they necessitate comprehensive documentation and a valid health reason. It’s not as easy as just requesting one.

• Make sure your tint complies with the legal VLT and reflectivity standards.
• Opt for high-quality tinting films for optimal performance.
• Learn about the process and requirements for medical exemptions.

Helpful Advice to Ensure Compliance

To make sure your window tint complies with the laws in Idaho, consider the following helpful advice:

• Find a reputable tinting shop.
• Make sure the VLT and reflectivity of the tint are within state guidelines.
• Hold onto any paperwork that proves your tint’s legality and any medical exemptions.
• Inspect your tint often to make sure it’s still within legal limits.

Conclusion: Main Points to Remember

Knowing and following Idaho’s window tint laws is crucial for driving safely and legally. Keep these main points in mind:

• The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) for front side windows must be at least 35%.
• The VLT for rear side windows and rear windows can be as low as 20% for SUVs and vans.
• Reflective tints cannot have a reflectivity higher than 35%.
• Medical exemptions are available for certain health conditions.
• Failure to comply can lead to fines, penalties, and increased insurance premiums.

FAQ

What is the legal tint percentage for front side windows in Idaho?

In Idaho, the legal tint percentage for front side windows is 35% VLT. This means that the tint must allow at least 35% of light to pass through.

Does Idaho have any restrictions on tint colors?

Idaho does not restrict any particular tint colors. You are free to choose any color for your window tint, provided it adheres to the VLT and reflectivity requirements.

• Make sure the tint color you pick is in line with VLT and reflectivity restrictions.
• Keep visibility in mind when choosing darker shades.

What is the process for applying for a medical exemption for window tinting in Idaho?

If you want to apply for a medical exemption, you’ll need to discuss it with your healthcare provider. They’ll evaluate your situation and give you the necessary paperwork if you’re eligible. This paperwork must then be submitted to the Idaho DMV for examination and approval.

Conditions like lupus, albinism, and severe photosensitivity could potentially qualify you for a medical exemption. Be sure to always have a copy of your exemption permit in your car.

• Idaho’s Legislative Branch
• TintWiz Information
• State Police of Idaho