Is a 5 percent tint legal for drivers in South Dakota in 2026? Yes, a 5 % VLT (visible light transmission) is legal on the driver’s side front window and any side windows, but not on the front windshield unless it includes a UV‑only strip. South Dakota’s statutes allow darker tints on rear windows, so the main restriction is the front windshield and the front side windows. Violating these limits can result in a fix‑it ticket, a fine up to $150, and a possible court appearance. Understanding the exact measurements and the required “clear view” areas will keep you safely on the road and out of court.
What South Dakota Law Says About Window Tint
South Dakota Codified Laws § 32‑13‑18 set the permissible Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages for each window. The front windshield may only have a non‑reflective tint that blocks UV rays; any visible‑light tint beyond 70 % VLT is prohibited. The driver’s side front window and the passenger side front window must each allow at least 70 % of light to pass, meaning a tint darker than 30 % VLT is illegal. Rear side windows and the rear window have no VLT floor, so a 5 % tint is fully permissible there. The law also requires a minimum one‑inch clear strip at the top of the windshield for safety and police visibility.
How to Verify Your Tint Meets the Requirements
The easiest way to confirm compliance is to use a handheld tint meter calibrated to the VLT scale. Measure each window separately; the meter will display a percentage. For a 5 % tint, the reading on rear windows should be around 5 %, while front side windows must read 70 % or higher. If you have a factory‑installed tint, keep the purchase receipt and any certification from the installer, as these documents can be presented if you are stopped by law enforcement. Remember that aftermarket tint may shrink or bubble over time, potentially altering the VLT.
Penalties for Non‑Compliant Tint
If a police officer determines that your front windows are tinted below the legal threshold, you will receive a citation citing § 32‑13‑18. First‑time offenders typically face a fix‑it ticket requiring removal or replacement of the tint within 30 days, plus a fine ranging from $50 to $150. Repeated violations can lead to higher fines, court costs, and a possible suspension of vehicle registration until compliance is demonstrated. In extreme cases, a vehicle may be impounded until the illegal tint is removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a 5 % tint on the driver’s side front window?
No. The driver’s side front window must allow at least 70 % of light, so a 5 % tint would be illegal.
Is a 5 % tint allowed on the rear windshield?
Yes. South Dakota imposes no VLT minimum on rear windows, so a 5 % tint is fully legal there.
Do I need a special permit to install darker tint on any window?
No permit is required for rear windows, but the front windshield and front side windows must meet the statutory VLT limits without a permit.
What happens if I have a factory‑installed tint that is darker than allowed?
The vehicle is still subject to the same legal limits. If the factory tint exceeds the law, the owner must have it removed or replaced to avoid citations.
How often should I re‑check my tint’s VLT rating?
It is prudent to test the tint annually, especially after extreme weather changes, to ensure it has not degraded or peeled, which could affect the VLT measurement.