Window Tint Laws in Idaho 2025 [Updated]

Window Tint Laws in Idaho 2025 [Updated]

Understanding Idaho Window Tint Law

Driving in Idaho means facing the bright sun and changing weather. Window tint can help, but you must follow the Idaho window tint law 2025. This law limits how dark your tint can be. Going beyond the legal window tint Idaho allows can lead to fines and trouble with the police.

Your insurance may also be affected if your tint breaks the Idaho car tint legal limits. Claims might get denied, or your rates could go up. Keeping your tint legal protects your insurance coverage and your wallet.

The Idaho window tint percentage 2025 spells out what tint levels are allowed on each window. Knowing these limits makes it easier to pick the right tint and stay legal on Idaho roads.

Idaho 2025 Window Tint Law: Tint Darkness by Vehicle Type

Window tint darkness is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which shows the percentage of light that passes through your car windows. Idaho sets specific limits on how dark your tint can be based on the type of vehicle you drive. These rules help keep roads safe and maintain clear visibility for all drivers.

Darkest Legal Tint for Sedans in Idaho

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
  • Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of visible light.
  • Back Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 20% of visible light.
  • Rear Window: Tint must allow more than 35% of visible light.

Darkest Legal Tint for SUVs and Vans in Idaho

  • Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or on the top 6 inches.
  • Front Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 35% of visible light.
  • Back Side Windows: Tint must allow more than 20% of visible light.
  • Rear Window: Tint must allow more than 35% of visible light.

Why Compliance with Idaho Tint Laws Matters

Driving in Idaho means facing bright sunlight, shade, and nighttime driving. Window tint helps reduce glare and heat, making driving safer and more comfortable. But if your tint is too dark, it can block your view, especially at night. Following Idaho’s 2025 tint laws keeps your vision clear and your drives safe.

Tint laws also have legal consequences. Idaho police often check cars for illegal tint. If your windows are too dark, you might get fined or face other penalties. Keeping your tint legal helps you avoid these problems and drive with peace of mind.

Insurance companies care about legal tinting too. Illegal tint may cause your claims to be denied or raise your insurance rates. Staying within Idaho’s tint limits protects your coverage and saves you money.

What Changed in Idaho Tinting Law 2025?

Idaho kept most of its tint laws the same but updated some details in 2025.

Enforcement of tint darkness rules is more precise now. Officers use better tools to check if tints meet the required Visible Light Transmission (VLT) levels.

Medical exemptions still exist but must be properly documented. Drivers need to carry proof of exemption in their vehicle at all times to avoid fines.

Window Tinting Laws in Idaho

Idaho enforces window tinting laws under state vehicle regulations. These laws cover all vehicle types, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and trucks, and focus on safety and clear visibility.

Passenger Cars and Station Wagons

For passenger cars, non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or on the top 6 inches of the windshield. The rest of the windshield must stay clear. Front side windows must let in more than 35% of visible light to ensure you can see inside the vehicle.

Back side windows must allow more than 20% of visible light.

Rear windows must allow more than 35% of visible light.

Multi-Purpose Vehicles (SUVs, Vans, Trucks)

SUVs, vans, and trucks follow the same rules for the windshield and front side windows. Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the AS-1 line or on the top 6 inches of the windshield. Front side windows must allow over 35% of light.

Back side windows must allow more than 20% of light. And Rear windows must allow more than 35% of light.

Idaho Tint Law 2025: Sedans, SUVs, Trucks Compared:

Vehicle TypeFront WindshieldFront Side WindowsRear Side WindowsRear Window
SedansNon-reflective above AS-1 or top 6″≥35% VLT≥20% VLT≥35% VLT
SUVs/VansNon-reflective above AS-1 or top 6″≥35% VLT≥20% VLT≥35% VLT
TrucksNon-reflective above AS-1 or top 6″≥35% VLT≥20% VLT≥35% VLT

Note: Dual side mirrors required if rear windows are tinted.

Window Tint Reflection in Idaho

Window tint helps reduce glare and heat by reflecting some incoming light. Idaho allows certain levels of reflection on tinted windows but limits how reflective your tint can be to keep driving safe.

Tint Reflection Limits for Sedans in Idaho

  • Front Side Windows: Tint reflection must be 35% or less.
  • Back Side Windows: Tint reflection must also be 35% or less.

Tint Reflection Limits for SUVs and Vans in Idaho

  • Front Side Windows: Reflection must not exceed 35%.
  • Back Side Windows: Reflection must be 35% or less.

Other Important Idaho Window Tint Rules and Regulations

Side Mirrors

If your vehicle’s back window is tinted, you must have side mirrors on both sides to ensure good rear visibility.

Restricted Colors

Idaho does not specify any banned tint colors. Colored tinting is generally allowed as long as it meets other regulations.

Tint Variance

Idaho law allows a 3% tolerance in visible light transmission (VLT). This means your tint can be slightly darker or lighter than stated limits by 3% without penalty.

Certificates

Manufacturers do not have to certify the tint films they sell in Idaho.

Stickers

Idaho does not require a sticker or label on tinted windows to show compliance.

Legal Window Tint Certificates in Idaho

In Idaho, medical exemptions allow for darker window tint when prescribed by a doctor. The exemption permits front side window tint with a minimum of 20% Visible Light Transmission (VLT). The windshield may have non-reflective tint with at least 75% VLT to reduce glare and block UV rays.

Before tinting, check with your installer if your tint meets Idaho laws and medical exemptions. Proper documentation from a licensed physician is required for medical exemptions and should be kept in your vehicle for law enforcement review.

Medical Exemptions for Window Tint in Idaho

Certain health conditions, such as skin or eye sensitivity, may qualify for a medical exemption in Idaho. To apply, you need a signed letter from a licensed doctor explaining why darker tint is necessary.

The exemption allows you to use tint as dark as 20% VLT on front side windows and non-reflective tint with 75% VLT on the windshield. You must carry your medical documentation in the vehicle at all times.

Window Tint Violation Penalties in Idaho

Idaho treats window tint violations as civil infractions, not criminal offenses. The first offense usually results in a fine around $67.

Repeat violations can lead to higher fines and possibly misdemeanor charges that could affect your driving record. In cases of illegal tint, you may be required to remove the tint and pass a re-inspection.

Risks of Illegal Window Tint

If your tint does not comply with Idaho laws, it could cause problems beyond fines. Insurance companies may deny claims or increase premiums if illegal tint contributes to an accident. Also, non-compliant tint may make it harder to sell your vehicle.

Removing illegal tint early saves money and stress. Keeping your window tint legal protects your safety, insurance, and vehicle value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Tint Too Dark on Front Windows
Idaho requires front side windows to let in at least 35% visible light. Using tint darker than this will get you a ticket.

2. Applying Reflective or Mirror-Like Tint
Reflective tint is not allowed on any windows. Using mirror-like tint can cause glare and is illegal.

3. Ignoring Fix-It Tickets
If police give you a ticket for illegal tint, you must fix it quickly. Ignoring the ticket can lead to bigger fines.

4. Forgetting Medical Exemption Rules
If you need darker tint for health reasons, get an official medical exemption from a doctor and submit it to Idaho’s transportation department.

5. Choosing Unlicensed Installers
DIY or unlicensed tint installers might use illegal films that fail inspection. Always go to a licensed professional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the darkest legal tint for front windows in Idaho?
A1: Front side windows must allow at least 35% of light through.

Q2: Can I use darker tint on rear windows?
A2: Yes, rear windows can have darker tint, but reflective tint is still not allowed.

Q3: Are reflective or mirror-like tints allowed?
A3: No, these tints are illegal on any window in Idaho.

Q4: How do I get a medical exemption?
A4: You must get a statement from a licensed doctor and submit it to the Idaho Transportation Department.

Q5: What happens if I ignore a tint violation ticket?
A5: Fines will increase, and you could face more serious penalties.

Conclusion

Following Idaho window tint laws helps you avoid tickets, stay safe, and keep your vehicle legal on the road. Use approved tint films that meet Idaho’s rules, especially the 35% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) requirement on front side windows. If you qualify for a medical exemption, always carry your exemption card in the vehicle to avoid fines.

Stay updated by checking the latest rules from the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) or by consulting a professional tint installer. Understanding and following the law now can save you from costly fines and keep your tint legal and safe.

Resources & Useful Links for Idaho Drivers

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