Idaho Window Tint Law

The Idaho window tint law allows you to tint above the AS-1 line or on the top 6 inches of your windshield.
Written by Tiffany Leung
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
The
Idaho
window tint law permits you to tint above the AS-1 line or on the top 6 inches of your windshield. It allows up to 35% tint darkness on your front seat side windows, 20% for the back seat side windows, and 35% for the rear window.
While tinted windows offer more privacy, improve the look of your car, and may even offer better visibility while on the road, many states have limits on tinting. Windows that are tinted too dark can impair visibility and increase the risk of an accident.
To help ensure you stay in compliance with the law,
Jerry
is breaking down everything you need to know about tinted window laws in Idaho.

What is the visible light transmission percentage?

The visible light transmission (VLT) percentage measures how much light can pass through a car window after being tinted. Each state has its own legal limit. 
A higher VLT means that more light can pass through the film. For example, a 75% tint allows 75% of the light to pass through, whereas a 5% tint (also known as “limo tint”) will only allow 5% of light to pass through.
RECOMMENDED
Thousands of customers saved on average $887/year on their car insurance with Jerry
This app is great, but the customer service is even better! Not to mention convenient! My husband and I got the lowest rate (much lower than the rates I was finding online through my own searches), quickly, and pretty much all through text message! Thank you so much for a hassle free experience👍
avatar
Gabriella R.
Find insurance savings
rating primary
4.7/5 Rating on App Store

What is the Idaho window tint law?

The Idaho window tint law was enacted in 1992 and poses a limit on how you tint your windows. The limits for passenger vehicles are as follows:
  • Front windshield: Non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line or on the top 6 inches
  • Front seat side windows: Must allow more than 35% light transmission
  • Back seat side windows: Must allow more than 20% light transmission
  • Rear window: Must allow more than 35% light transmission—but you must have dual side mirrors
  • The state laws allow a 3% light transmission tolerance
There are no tint colors that are specified as restricted, however, the front side and back side windows must not be more than 35% reflective.
The tint manufacturer is not required to certify the film they are selling in Idaho and you don’t need a sticker to identify legal tinting.

Medical exemptions

Idaho offers medical exemptions for darker window tints, including 75% on the windshield, 20% on other windows, and 3% tolerance. If a physician who is licensed to practice in Idaho deems it necessary for you or your passenger to be protected from sun or heat exposure, you are eligible for a medical exemption. 
If you are granted a medical exemption, you must carry a physical copy of the exemption certificate at all times in your vehicle. You may only drive during the day, as it is illegal to drive with darker tinted windows at night—even with a medical exemption.
The written and signed verification letter must be carried in your vehicle.

Penalties for violating the window tint law

If you get pulled over for violating the Idaho window tint law, you’ll receive a traffic infraction. You’ll also need to remove the tint so that you are in compliance with the law.
If you’re charged with an infraction, you’ll need to pay a fine of $67.
RECOMMENDED
Compare auto insurance policies
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
Find insurance savings

FAQs

On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $500 to tint your car windows. Prices can vary depending on your vehicle, the material, and the auto shop you’re getting it done at.
Are you overpaying for car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
Try Jerry

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings