Indiana Window Tint LawIC 9-19-19 — VLT Limits, Reflectivity & Penalties
Indiana regulates how dark you can tint your vehicle windows under Indiana Code 9-19-19. The rules differ depending on whether your vehicle is classified as a passenger car or a multi-purpose vehicle. Below is everything you need to know to stay legal on Indiana roads.
Quick Reference: Indiana VLT Limits
VLT (Visible Light Transmission) is the percentage of light that passes through your window film. Lower numbers mean darker tint.
Passenger Vehicles
Sedans, coupes, hatchbacks
SUVs & Trucks
Multi-purpose vehicles, vans
What is VLT?
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission. It measures the percentage of visible light that passes through your window and tint film combined. A higher VLT percentage means more light passes through (lighter tint), while a lower percentage means less light passes through (darker tint).
Reflectivity Rules
Maximum 25% Reflectivity
Indiana law restricts window tint reflectivity to no more than 25% on all windows. This applies to both passenger vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles. Highly reflective or mirrored tint is not legal in Indiana. All films installed by Classic Shades meet this requirement.
Medical Exemptions
Indiana Code 9-19-19-4 provides a medical exemption for individuals who require darker window tint due to a medical condition. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:
- 1Obtain a written attestation from a licensed physician or optometrist stating the medical necessity for darker window tint.
- 2The attestation must specify the level of light transmission needed for your condition.
- 3You must carry the medical exemption documentation in your vehicle at all times.
- 4The exemption may be reviewed by law enforcement during a traffic stop.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Class A Infraction — IC 9-19-19-8
Violating Indiana window tint law is classified as a Class A infraction. While the maximum fine can be up to $10,000, typical fines for first-time violations are significantly lower. Additional consequences may include:
- •A court order to remove the non-compliant tint
- •Additional fines for repeat violations
- •Requirement to present proof of removal to the court
FMVSS 205 Compliance Proof
Indiana law requires that you carry proof of FMVSS 205 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) compliance in your vehicle. This document certifies that your window film meets federal safety standards. Classic Shades provides this documentation with every tint installation.
What Classic Shades Recommends
With over 37 years of tinting experience in Evansville, IN, we know Indiana tint law inside and out. Here is what we recommend to keep you legal and comfortable:
Front Side Windows
We default to 30% VLT on front side windows for all vehicle types. This keeps you at the legal limit while still providing significant heat rejection and UV protection. Our Autobahn ceramic films reject more heat than cheaper dark films, so you get better performance without going darker.
Rear Windows — Your Choice
For SUVs and trucks, you are free to go as dark as you want on rear side windows and the rear windshield. Many customers choose 5% or 15% for maximum privacy. For sedans and coupes, rear windows must also be above 30% VLT. We will walk you through your options during your appointment.
Quality Film Matters
As an authorized Autobahn dealer, we install high-performance ceramic window film that rejects more heat per VLT percentage point than standard dyed films. You get better comfort, UV protection, and clarity while staying legal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Indiana window tint law
What is the legal tint limit in Indiana?
Indiana law (IC 9-19-19) requires all windows on passenger vehicles to allow more than 30% visible light transmission (VLT). For SUVs and trucks (multi-purpose vehicles), the front side windows must allow more than 30% VLT, but rear side windows and the rear windshield can be any darkness. Windshields on all vehicles may only have non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line.
Can I get darker tint on rear windows in Indiana?
Yes, but only on multi-purpose vehicles such as SUVs and trucks. Indiana law allows any darkness on the rear side windows and rear windshield of SUVs, trucks, and vans. Passenger cars (sedans and coupes) must maintain more than 30% VLT on all windows including rear.
Do I need a medical exemption for dark tint in Indiana?
If you have a medical condition that requires darker-than-legal tint, Indiana law (IC 9-19-19-4) allows a medical exemption. You must obtain a written attestation from a licensed physician or optometrist and carry it in your vehicle at all times. The exemption document must state the medical necessity for reduced light transmission.
What happens if I get pulled over for illegal tint in Indiana?
Illegal window tint in Indiana is a Class A infraction under IC 9-19-19-8. Penalties can include fines up to $10,000, though typical fines for first-time violations are much lower. You may also be required to remove the non-compliant tint. Law enforcement may also ask for your FMVSS 205 compliance proof, which you are required to carry in your vehicle.
Does Classic Shades install legal tint?
Yes. Classic Shades Window Tinting in Evansville, IN ensures every installation complies with Indiana law. We default to 30% VLT on front side windows for passenger vehicles to keep you legal, and we always discuss your options for rear windows based on your vehicle type. We provide FMVSS 205 compliance documentation with every installation.
Disclaimer: This page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Indiana window tint laws are subject to change. The information presented here is based on Indiana Code 9-19-19 as of the date of publication. For the most current legal requirements, consult the Indiana General Assembly or a qualified legal professional. Classic Shades Window Tinting is not responsible for any fines or penalties resulting from non-compliant window tint.
Need Legal Tint in Indiana?
Classic Shades installs compliant, high-performance window tint for every vehicle type. Book your appointment or call us today.