If you're a car owner in Crawfordsville, Indiana, or anywhere in the Hoosier State, it's important to stay informed about Indiana's window tint laws. Whether you're adding a new tint or maintaining your vehicle, adhering to these regulations can help you avoid fines and keep your ride safe and stylish.
Indiana Window Tinting Laws: The Basics
Indiana, like many other states, has specific laws regarding the level of tint you can apply to your vehicle's windows. These laws are in place for safety reasons, ensuring that drivers maintain good visibility on the road while also preventing law enforcement officers from struggling to see inside vehicles during traffic stops.
Here's a breakdown of Indiana's window tint regulations:
Passenger Vehicles (Sedans, Coupes, etc.):
Front Windshield: Tinting is not allowed on the front windshield except for a non-reflective tint strip along the top, which must not extend the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or down to 5 inches below the top of the windshield.
Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 30% of light to pass through (Visible Light Transmission).
Rear Side Windows:Â You can have tinting as dark as 30% VLT.
Rear Window:Â Similar to the rear side windows, tint must allow at least 30% of light in.
Window Type | Legal Tint Percentage (VLT) |
Windshield | Non-reflective above AS-1 line |
Front Side Windows | 30% |
Back Side Windows | 30% |
Rear Window | 30% |
Medical Exemption | Varies (requires certification) |
SUVs, Trucks, and Vans:
Front Windshield: Same as sedans—AS-1 line or 5-inch non-reflective tint strip is allowed at the top.
Front Side Windows:Â Must meet the 30% VLT rule.
Rear Side Windows:Â No restrictions, so you can apply a darker tint.
Rear Window:Â No restrictions here either; you can go darker than 30% if desired.
Window Type | Legal Tint Percentage (VLT) |
Windshield | Non-reflective above AS-1 line |
Front Side Windows | 30% |
Back Side Windows | Any |
Rear Window | Any |
Medical Exemption | Varies (requires certification) |
Reflectivity and Colors
Indiana law also restricts the reflectiveness and color of window tints. Reflective tints that produce a mirror-like finish more than 25% reflective are prohibited. While some states allow various colors, Indiana doesn't permit red, amber, or yellow window tint.
Medical Exemptions
If you have a medical condition that makes you more sensitive to light, you may qualify for an exemption to use a darker tint. However, you will need documentation from a licensed physician, and your tint must still adhere to safe driving standards.
Why Crawfordsville Drivers Should Pay Attention
Crawfordsville, like other towns in Indiana, are subject to state-wide laws, but as a smaller community, local law enforcement is likely to be diligent in ensuring compliance. Getting pulled over for an illegal tint could result in fines, and fixing a non-compliant tint can be a costly hassle. Staying within the legal limits will save you both time and money, not to mention keeping you on the right side of the law.
Impact of Window Tinting on Your Car Insurance
Insurance companies may view illegally dark window tints as a liability, potentially affecting your coverage and claims process. Non-compliant tints could lead to increased premiums as they are considered a risk. In some cases, having illegal tints may lead to insurance claims being denied. If you have an accident and illegal tint is found, your insurer might argue that they contributed to the incident, resulting in claim rejection. This scenario could leave you responsible for covering the costs of damages and repairs.
Benefits of Legal Window Tinting
While it’s crucial to follow Indiana’s tint laws, there are still many benefits to having a legal tint on your vehicle:
UV Protection: Quality window film can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, protecting both your skin and your vehicle’s interior.
Heat Reduction:Â A ceramic window film can significantly lower the heat inside your car, which is especially helpful during hot Indiana summers.
Privacy and Security:Â Even with a legal tint, you can enjoy increased privacy while keeping prying eyes from seeing your valuables.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a resident of Crawfordsville or the surrounding area, following Indiana’s window tint laws is essential for staying safe and avoiding fines. If you’re unsure about your tint or need to adjust it to meet the legal limits, it’s always a good idea to consult with an auto professional who is familiar with local laws. At Great Details Auto Care, we offer expert window tinting services that will adhere to Indiana’s regulations, ensuring your vehicle is both stylish and compliant. Visit us today for a consultation and make sure your tint is road-ready!
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