Window tinting laws in Iowa were legislated in 1983 to ensure road safety for residents.
Iowa tint laws allow Seventy percent Tint for the front side windows while any darker tint can be applied on back side and rear window. The percentage refers to the Percentage of Visible Light Transmission through vehicle windows.
Further to above, the tinting or coating material must not excessively reflective so drivers are encouraged to install non-reflective type of window tints.
Check out the below sections to know tint darkness and tint reflection limits along with some other rules.
Overview of Iowa Tint Laws
The below infographic defines the allowed limits of windows darkness and reflection for Cars and SUVs or Trucks. Vehicle owners are advised to follow these limits to avoid tint tickets or fines for illegal tinting.
Darkest Legal Tint in Iowa
The below table shows the darkest allowed tint percentages for Cars and SUVs operated in Iowa:
| State | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Rear Window | Front Windshield | Tint Reflection | Other Restrictions |
| Iowa | 70% | Any VLT % | Any VLT % | Must pass minimum 70% visible light. | Tinting materials must not be excessively reflective. | No tint colors are specifically prohibited. |
Window Tint Reflection
According to Motor Vehicle Laws Iowa – Chapter 450 Motor Vehicle Equipment 450.7(2) The window tinting or covering material must not excessively reflective. However, State laws are not specific about the allowed limits of Reflection from tinted windows.
Additionally, there is generic rule if window tint reflection limits are not exactly defined, it means the coating or tint of windows must not reflect more light than a standard car window without any tinting material applied.
Other Rules and Regulations
There are some other rules that are required to practice by drivers in Iowa:
- Dual Side Mirrors: Outside mirror on the right side is required and shall have minimum 10 square inches of reflective surface.
- Restricted Tint Colors: No tint colors are specifically restricted by the State laws for Motor Vehicle Equipment.
- Certificates: Window Film Manufacturers are not required to get certification for the tint materials they sell in Iowa.
- Stickers: Sticker or Label to identify the legal tint is not required to display on windows.
Medical Exemption
Medical Exemption or the tint waiver was allowed in Iowa before July 4, 2012. After July 4, 2012 Iowa state departments stopped issuing the medical exemption certificates.
Moreover, If any person diagnosed with a medical condition after July, 2012 which requires to apply lower tints, cannot get the medical exemption certificate. However the Form 432020 signed and attested by licensed doctor prior to 2012 can be renewed and replaced (if lost) from office of Vehicle services.
Penalties for Violating Tint Laws
State patrol officers can stop any driver who has illegally tinted their windows and test the darkness of the tint. If deemed illegal, the motorist will face a fine ranging from $50 to $100 for the first infraction.
Notwithstanding with above, Continuous or repeated violations of Tinting laws might result in fine of $127. Also, The Driver or vehicle owner may get multiple tint tickets depending on the severity of infringement. Third Conviction within a period of Five years may lead to Class “D” Felony. Class “D” felony can put the driver in jail for maximum five years and a fine of at least $750 but less than $7,500.