Understanding the Law Surrounding Window Tint in Indiana: Is 5% Tint Legal?

The Law Surrounding Window Tint in Indiana

Indiana window tint laws are actually among the stricter tint laws in the United States. When it comes to Indiana window tint laws for passenger vehicles (cars and SUVs), the front windshield can only have a non-reflective tint applied above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or above the top 5 inches of the window. The front windows (driver and passenger) can have tint applied as dark as 30% VLT. The back windows (driver and passenger) can have any darkness of tint applied as long as it’s not too reflective (more on that below). The rear windshield can have any darkness of tint applied so long as it’s not too reflective.
Indiana window tint laws ban the use of any tint on the front windshield that is more than 25% reflective. The front side windows can’t be tinted with any film that is more than 25% reflective on the exterior surface , but no rules regarding the interior surface. Again, as long as the tint is less than 25% reflective, all other windows are fair game and can be tinted as dark as you’d like. That said, the windows on the back of the vehicle must not have any reflective film on them.

What Does 5% Tint Mean?

5% tint is a very dark tint, which means that only 5% of visible light is allowed in through its window film. If you thought 35% was dark, then 5% is essentially 7 times darker. A 5% tint is commonly referred to as "limo" tint.
The percentage is measured by a VLT, or visual light transmission, which a light meter can accurately measure in numbers that do not vary. For example, when measured against a regular front windshield, which is about 28% VLT, the 5% tint would mean that only 5% of light would be permitted through.
When you look at a car that has 5% tint, almost everything looks dark. Thus, the reason it’s also called limo tint. If you want to be able to see with the driving, don’t install this one on the windshield or driver’s window. Anything other than the rear windows of a limo, or commercial vehicle, and you’re going to have a problem.

Consequences After Illegal Tint in Indiana

If you roll around with dark tint that’s below the legal limit for Indiana, you may find yourself in hot water. For example, that 5% dark limo tint that’s got you feeling cool can still get you in trouble if you get pulled over.
What’s the penalty for having illegal window tint in Indiana? Illegal window tint isn’t considered a normal violation. It’s considered a class C infraction. In other words, it’s a different breed of traffic ticket. Class C infractions are punishable by a fine of up to $500. A maximum fine of $10,000 can be imposed if multiple infractions have been issued in a six (6) month period, for a maximum of $20,000 imposed within a twelve (12) month period of violations. The fine may also be accompanied by a court mandated order to have your windows re-tinted to meet legal standards.
The penalties don’t stop there. The windows may need to be removed and replaced, or re-tinted, at the owner or operator’s expense. Ignoring the action may be deemed as tampering with evidence, which is punishable as a class A misdemeanor. And, of course, you’ll be held responsible for the penalty of the class A misdemeanor, including a six (6) month jail sentence and a maximum $10,000 fine.
Like in most states, you can face additional consequences that are unique to your situation.

Exemptions and Special Circumstances

Certain conditions may allow for a waiver of Indiana window tint laws, but those conditions are few and far between. The main exemption from the 30 percent tint threshold for passenger vehicles — which include all windows of the cars except for the highest tinted portion that is treated as a separate area known as the brow — is for medical conditions. Those with valid medical conditions may petition the local court for an exemption and approval. However , the deadline for approval by the court in most Indiana counties is April 1 of the year for which the exemption will take effect. Any exemption must be approved by the court in the county of residence of the person with a medical condition. It is also the responsibility of the person filing for the exemption to have the exemption updated annually. The form must be filed with another agency each year to be kept on record by law enforcement for use when determining whether a vehicle is in violation.

Measuring & Choosing Legal Tint

If you are buying a vehicle with dark tint and want to check if it meets the state requirement for Indiana window tint, then you will need a device called a window tint meter. The Tintman DT-Meter is a good example of a handheld tint meter. You can buy one online for around ~$200. This tool is very easy to use, simply hold the meter against the car window with the transponder pointing out at the glass.
In addition to checking the tint that is currently on the vehicle, you will also need to plan ahead when buying a vehicle and select a legal tint percentage. The following is a simple breakdown of what is considered to be legal for passenger vehicles in Indiana.
The Windshield:

– Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield with no restrictions.
– If you decide on any tint on your windshield other than clear, then it must be applied above the AS-1 line made by the manufacturer of the glass or above the top 6 inches, whichever is longer.

Front Windows: There are two key rules on legal tint for front windows.

– The first is that tint must allow more than 30% of light in.
– The second rule is that tinted windows on the front side cannot have a reflective rate higher than 25%.

Back Windows: There are no light or reflective restrictions to adhere to if you want tint on the back side windows, however, keep in mind the tint must be installed on a car in such a manner that it does not obstruct the view through the window of the driver or any passengers.
Rear Windows: There are no restrictions for tint on rear windows aside from the restriction mentioned above for the back side windows.
Now that you understand the UV & VLT levels allowed for tinted windows in Indiana, you can decide what percent will look good on your vehicle and work learn how to legally measure the tint already applied.

Tips to Avoid Violating the Law

To ensure compliance with Indiana’s window tint laws, vehicle owners should follow these practical steps: Window Tint Removal: If your vehicle already has window tint that does not comply with Indiana’s laws, it is best to remove the tint completely. Failure to do so could lead to penalties for violating the law. Visit a Reputable Installer: After removal, or if a vehicle owner is tinting their windows for the first time, it is crucial to select a reputable installer who is experienced in adhering to local tint laws. When selecting an installer, it is best to check if they are reputable and well-experienced with tinting laws. Reading customer reviews online and visiting the installer’s website are both good ways to determine if the installer is trustworthy. Once you find an installer, ask them to provide tinted windows that comply with Indiana’s requirements to prevent unwanted legal trouble down the road . Understand Medical Exemptions: Indiana allows individuals with specific medical conditions to obtain a medical exemption certificate for window tint that is beyond the limits of the law. Vehicle owners with a medical condition such as a light-sensitive skin condition or melanoma may investigate the possibility of obtaining an exemption certificate from the law. The process to obtain such a certificate is relatively easy, but not all exemptions are granted. It is also important to note that the exemption will expire after a few years. Individuals interested in this option should act quickly, as doing so will help get you in compliance and avoid monetary and other consequences. Seek Legal Assistance: When in doubt, you can always consult with an Indiana traffic attorney about the extent of your tinting rights. They can explain the law and represent you in court. Many of these lawyers offer free consultations.