South Dakota tint laws were legislated in 1989.
Tinting Laws in South Dakota allows drivers and vehicle owners to apply window coating materials within certain limits. Illegal tints reduces the light passage through the windows which obstructs the driver’s view of road. Motorists must obey the tinting rules, As the Darkest or illegal tint is dangerous and may result in personal injuries during accidents.
To comply with state laws, Drivers must follow the Visible light transmission percentage of 35% or more for the front side windows adjacent to operator’s seat. The side windows and rear window behind the driver seat must transmit more than 20% of light. So choose the right tint shade, in order to avoid penalties and tint tickets.
Check out the below detailed guideline about South Dakota Tint Laws for Cars and SUV or Trucks:
Overview of South Dakota Tint Laws
The below image outlines the Window Tint darkness and tint reflection limits for Cars and SUVs registered in South Dakota. Addition to this, No glass or coating material may be cracked, broken, or shattered to the extent that it significantly obstructs the vision of the driver.
Darkest Legal Tint in South Dakota
The below table highlights the permitted tint limits in terms of darkness and tint reflection in South Dakota. The restricted color tints are also mentioned. Drivers and owners of the vehicles must obey these rules to avoid penalties.
| State | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Rear Windows | Windshield | Tint Reflection | Other Rules |
| South Dakota | 35% | 20% | 20% | Non Reflective Tint above the AS-1 line. | Metallic or shiny tint or coating is not allowed. | No tint colors are restricted. |
Window Tint Reflection
South Dakota window tinting laws restrict to apply any Metallic, mirrored or shiny appearance coating materials on vehicle windows. The same rule is applicable to Sedan and SUV type vehicles.
Metallic or reflective tinting is prohibited for Front side side windows, back side windows and rear window. As reflective film produces glare due to sunlight, which causes inconvenience for other drivers.
It is recommended to cover your vehicle windows with coating material type which meets requirements of state laws.
Other Rules and Regulations in South Dakota
South Dakota imposed some other rules for vehicles with tinted windows:
- Dual Side Mirrors: Unlike other states, There is no restriction for Dual side mirrors if rear window is tinted.
- Restricted Colors: No tint colors are specifically restricted in Vehicle and Accessory Specifications for South Dakota.
- Certificates: Window Film manufacturers must have to get certificate for the tinting materials they sell in the state.
- Stickers: The sticker or label is required to display on tinted windows which shows legal tint is applied.
Medical Exemption
South Dakota do not permit Tint waiver due to medical conditions. Hence, any person who shall install lower tint on vehicle shall be guilty and legal action will be taken.
Penalties for Violating South Dakota Tint Laws
Any individual who violate the window tinting laws in South Dakota shall be guilty of Class 2 Misdemeanor.
Law enforcement agency may test your tinted windows with an electronic device known as Tint meter or window tint reader. If found illegal, Vehicle operator shall face the legal consequences.