It can be difficult to know the laws on tinting your car’s windows nowadays, with every state seeming to have its own state laws. However, don’t let this put you off of modifying your vehicle in the way that you want. We’re going to tell you all about the window tint laws in the state of Iowa.
Iowa State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in Iowa?
Tint VLT: Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on this window, along the top edge and only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line.
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: Up to 70% tint is allowed on these windows.
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: Any tint is allowed on these windows.
Tint VLT: Rear Window: Any tint is allowed on these windows.
How reflective can window tint be in Iowa?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: The law is not specific, although the reflectiveness shouldn’t be excessive.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: The law is not specific, although the reflectiveness shouldn’t be excessive.
Other Iowa automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
Resisted Colors: You are allowed all colors of window tints in Iowa.
Side Mirrors: No restrictions are specified.
Certificate Requirements: No certification is required from manufacturers to sell the film in Iowa.
Stick Requirements: You do not need a sticker to show the legality of your window tinting.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: the charge for illegal window tinting in Iowa is $127.50.
Iowa Tint Law Reference
Iowa Code Title VIII, Subtitle II, Section 321.438: Windshields and windows. (.pdf file) Iowa Administrative Code – IAC Rule 761.450.7 – Front windshields, windows or sidewings Iowa Department of Transportation – Window Tinting Standards
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in Iowa State?
There is no definitive amount that car window tinting should cost in Iowa, as there are many factors affecting the amount you’ll have to pay. For example, the tint shop that you opt for will have its own price set. These might be higher or lower depending on their experience, the materials they use, and the time it takes them to tint your windows.
Another factor might be the size of your car and how many windows you want tinting. Iowa allows you to have a tint on all windows to some degree, meaning that you’ll be paying more to cover five to seven windows instead of only three.
How Does Car Window Tinting Work?
Window tinting consists of applying a tinted film onto the window surface glass. The film is placed on the inside of the window instead of the outside, allowing it to be more protected from the elements.
The window tint film is made from polyester laminate with another layer over the top of it. This extra thin layer is made up of the tinting agent chosen, such as metal, dye, ceramic, or more. This second layer is the one that is responsible for protecting the inside of your car from harmful UV rays and bright light.
What Is The Best DIY 70% Tinting Product?
There are plenty of 70% tinting films on the market, and it can be difficult knowing which is the best for your vehicle. From extensive research, we have found that the best 70% tinting product is the G Greenfilm Static Cling Window Tint 70% Window Film.
Why Is This The Best?
This tinting film only blocks 17% of visible light, which is considerably less than other tinting films on the market. This keeps your car bright and safe while you still benefit from its high-quality UV blocking technology.
The manufactured PVC film is lightweight and able to stick to your window through static instead of glue, making it easy to install. You don’t need to worry about enlisting the help of a professional with this 70% film!
Nanotechnology blocks up to 99.9% of UV rays as well as 85% IR. This film offers an impressive amount of protection to you and other passengers without blocking too much of the natural sunlight.
The manufacturer of this tinting film also offers an installation kit to purchase separately, making it even easier for you to apply to your windows.
How To Apply To Your Car
Applying the G Greenfilm Static Cling Window Tint could not be easier, with the manufacturer only needing three steps to explain it fully. However, you should cut your film before applying it to the windows.
This film comes in seven different sizes, so make sure that you opt for the correct roll of film to sufficiently cover your car windows.
Once you have cut all of the window shapes from your tinting film, it is time to apply the tint to the window.
The first step is to clean the window with a high-quality window cleaner, ensuring that there are no streaks or dust left. Next, spray both the window and film on both sides with the specialized solution.
Apply the film to the window, as straight as possible, to the window. It doesn’t matter which side of the film you use.
Now use a squeegee to remove the solution from under the film, using firm pressure. Make sure that no bubbles are left underneath the film and that it is completely applied to the glass. You will need to leave this to dry for several days.
Pros & Cons Of DIY vs Professional Fitting
For starters, DIY fitting is cheaper and more economical than having it professionally fitted. You also have more of a say of which film to go for depending on your budget if you were to DIY the job yourself.
However, fitting window tints is not easy, and therefore you might be left with poorer results if you were to DIY it rather than using a professional. If you made a mistake, repairing it can also be very expensive. You also won’t get a warranty on the tint like you would if you were to use a professional, so DIYing the job can actually cost you more money in the long run if you were to do a bad job.
Professionals might be more expensive, but they are likely to have much more experience than you. They’ll also have access to more films in terms of technology and colors. You are also more likely to get a warranty on your purchase.
Medical Exemption
Iowa used to allow medical exemptions for people with letters from professional practitioners, but since July 2012 they no longer allow anyone with exemption to have a darker tint than the rules outlined above.
People with exemptions are allowed 35% VLT as long as they were tinted before July 4, 2012, due to a medical condition. If this applies to you, you are required to carry your DOT form #432020 signed and dated by your physician before this date.