In this guide, we cover the Idaho State laws for window tinting. This includes the basics such as tint percentages, how dark a window tint can be, and how reflective a window tint can be in Idaho. The guide also covers medical exemptions, potential fines, and restrictions. Idaho window tint law was adopted in 1992.
Idaho State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in Idaho?
Tint VLT: Windshield: Non-reflective tint allowed above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, or the top 6 inches.
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
Tint VLT: Rear Windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
How reflective can window tint be in Idaho?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: Must not be more than 35% reflective.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: Must not be more than 35% reflective.
Other Idaho automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
Restricted Colors: There are no restrictions on tint colors.
Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the back windows are tinted.
Certificate Requirements: Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell.
Sticker Requirements: Stickers identifying legal tinting are not required.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Non-compliance is an infraction, and carries a fine of around $25 for a first offense.
Idaho Tint Law Reference
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in Idaho State?
Car window tinting in Idaho can be very affordable, but the cost varies depending on the level of service. A four-door sedan that requires a basic film tint will cost from around $150 – $250. The price increases depending on the size of the vehicle, and the number of windows that require tinting. For a quality tint such as a ceramic tint, the price will be higher. Expect a four-door sedan to cost around $400. The most affordable option is a home DIY kit, which can be under $100 in Idaho.
How Does Car Window Tinting Work?
When you tint a window, a lightweight film is applied to the inside pane of the glass. It is not applied to the outside of the glass. This is to protect the tinting from wear and tear, flying debris, and harsh sunlight.
The first layer will be a strong polyester laminate which should improve the performance of the windows. The polyester is a transparent film.
The next film will have tinting agents like metals and dyes, which create the shading effect. This is the layer that blocks UV rays to protect your skin from overexposure to harsh sunlight.
What Is The Best DIY 35% Tinting Product?
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to find a tint that will actually work well on your car, especially if you buy it online. We have done a lot of research to figure out the best tinting product to apply to your vehicle yourself, and we recommend using the MKBROTHER.
Why Is This The Best?
We praise MKBROTHER so highly because of their easy-to-apply directions, their 99% UV blocking, and their scratch-resistant materials.
The MKBROTHER has a strong tint which allows in visible light but rejects the heat of the sun and the UV rays up to 99% while still sticking to the 35% restriction. This blocking doesn’t create a glare which means you won’t be distracted by the moving sunlight. The lack of glare also means that your vehicle’s interior won’t be affected by the sun rays, allowing it to stay showroom-ready for longer.
As the film is not made from metal fragments, you don’t have to worry about the tinting blocking any of your technology which normally relies on signaling.
How To Apply To Your Car
The tint is made of an adhesive film, which means all you need to do is apply the tint to the car’s window, with no special equipment on hand.
First, you need to clean the glass on your car to remove any impurities. Next, you want to cut the film to match your car’s window size. We would advise that you check their sizing section before buying, as you will want more than enough to cover your window.
After that, you can pull one corner of the tint’s protective layers to expose the adhesive. You will be given a spray solution. Spray this solution onto the adhesive side of the film and onto the inside of the window you are planning on tinting. At this point, depending on your state, you would apply the legalization sticker.
Lastly, you should place the film onto the window with the adhesive sides connecting. Then flatten out any bubbles which may have occurred in the process. If you have left any film on the edge of the window, you can cut it off with an extractor knife.
Pros & Cons Of DIY vs Professional Fitting
There is an obvious reason for doing a DIY fitting instead of hiring a professional, and that’s the price. DIY tinting is so much cheaper that it is definitely worth considering. This can help you either save money or allow you to buy better quality film without the higher charge that the professional will ask for.
However, there is a reason why professionals charge these higher prices. It’s because creating a seamless installation isn’t always easy. If you put the tinting on incorrectly, it won’t last as long, nor will it protect you as much as it should.
Medical Exemption
The state of Idaho does allow medical exemptions for a darker tint. To obtain an exemption, a person must receive a written statement from a licensed physician, supporting the need for a special tint. This statement must be carried in the vehicle at all times. A medical exemption will allow for a tint of up to 70% on the windshield, and 20% on all other windows, with no more than 35% luminous reflection.
Medical exemptions in Idaho are issued to the person, not the vehicle. If you receive permission, any vehicle you travel is subject to the exemption.