Here we have gathered all the important information that we could find about Louisiana State Window Tint Law. From the basics, like tint percentages, to additional car window tint laws, you will find it all here. In 1993, Louisiana was the 20th State to enforce window tint laws, and if you want to cooperate with them, read this.
Louisiana State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in Louisiana?
Tint VLT: Windshield: Non-reflective tint can be used above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line at the top of the windshield.
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: The tint must allow in 40% of light, or more.
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: The tint must allow more than 25% of light in.
Tint VLT: Rear Window: The tint must allow in 12% of light, or more.
How reflective can window tint be in Louisiana?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: The tint must not be any more than 20% reflective.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: Again, the reflection cannot exceed 20%.
Other Louisiana automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
Restricted Colors: There are no explicit rules banning any colors of tint.
Side Mirrors: There are no restrictions surrounding side mirrors.
Certificate Requirements: Manufacturers must certify all the films that they sell in Louisiana.
Sticker Requirements: A sticker to certify legal tinting must be applied between the glass and tint on the driver’s side window.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: A first offense fine of $150, a second offense fine of $250, and all subsequent fines must not exceed $350.
Louisiana Tint Law Reference
Louisiana Laws – RS: 32.361.2 – Medical Exemption
Louisiana Window Tint Medical Exemption Affidavit (.pdf file)
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost in Louisiana State
The costs of window tinting in Louisiana are lower than the costs of this in some other States. Window tinting is usually charged on the basis of you having all of your windows done, and prices will vary from area to area. But, in Baton Rouge (Louisiana State Capitol), you should expect to spend between $190 and $230 to get a four-door sedan tinted.
How Does Car Window Tinting Work?
Window tinting film uses a specific type of polyester-based film that allows only certain types of sun rays to come through into your vehicle. The film then reflects or absorbs the harmful rays so that they don’t penetrate the glass and cause harm to you, your family, or the interior of your car.
The amount of metal, dye, or ceramic within the film will determine how much light is blocked, which is why there are different levels of tint that you can purchase. The lower the VLT percentage, the less light is allowed into your vehicle.
What Is The Best DIY 50% Tinting Product?
50% window tints are among the most popular and therefore the market is full of high-quality options. However, we have found that the MKBROTHER 50% VLT Professional Window Tint is one of the best you can buy.
Why Is This The Best?
This tint from MKBROTHER is offered in seven different sizes, but they all have the same height of 24 inches. This makes it easier for you to cut out the shapes of your windows without wasting a lot of your film. We find this feature incredibly beneficial for beginners who have never added a window tint to their vehicles before.
The film is 1.5 millimeters thick, made of a premium quality film that is resistant to scratches, peeling, and bubbling. However, the thickness won’t compromise your window mechanisms, meaning that you can still use them effortlessly without damaging your window tint.
You’ll find that this tint blocks 50% of light and heat from getting into your car. However, up to 99% of UV rays are blocked, keeping you and your car safe from even the brightest of days.
How To Apply To Your Car
MKBROTHER offers both instructions on how to apply this film to your windows, as well as illustrations to make it an even simpler process.
Firstly, you’ll need to clean your window as well as you can with a high-quality glass cleaner. Cut the tint to the shape of your window with one inch of allowance all the way around its perimeter. You can also cut the shapes before you begin the application process if you’d prefer.
Apply the adhesive tape to each side of one corner of the tint and pull them apart. This will separate the clear liner backing from your film.
Spray the adhesive side with the spray solution as well as the inside of the window. Place the film onto the window and remove any bubbles with a flat tool, such as a squeegee. Now trim the edges of the film and you’re done with the first window!
Pros & Cons Of DIY vs Professional Fitting
Pros of DIY fitting
- Ability to choose an option to fit your personal situation and budget
- You can purchase pre-cut kits which are easier for DIY installers to use
- Complete the job to your satisfaction
Cons of DIY fitting
- Quite difficult for beginners
- DIY car modifications are illegal in some states
Pros of professional fitting
- More experience from technicians
- Likely to offer warranties and guarantees
- It’s definitely legal and you won’t get into trouble
Cons of professional fitting
- Often comes at a higher cost
- Often is finished to a higher quality
Medical Exemption
Louisiana State allows medical exemptions for darker window tinting for any individual with a WHO ICD-9-CM condition. These include photophobia and albinism. This tint can be applied to the vehicle owned by this individual, or a vehicle owned by their spouse or one of their family members. This exemption comes with a special decal that must be displayed in the vehicle at all times, and the affidavit must always be carried.
These exemptions are subject to change every 3 years. If you are a convicted criminal (for drugs or violent offenses), you will not be eligible for this exemption. You must get the tint removed when selling the vehicle.