Got tinted windows? Good news. Starting August 2025, Louisiana drivers can legally go darker (on the front side windows, at least). Let’s explore what’s changing and why.

What’s Changing?

Louisiana’s about to let drivers roll around with darker front window tints. Starting Aug. 1, 2025, the new law reduces the required Visible Light Transmission (VLT) on front side windows from 40% to 25%. That means drivers can now legally block more sunlight and more heat.

Louisiana tint laws already allowed 25% VLT on rear side windows, and back windshield can go as dark as 12% (on passenger vehicles). Front windshields are still mostly off-limits for tinting. In this state, you can only tint the few inch AS-1 line on top of front windshields.

Why is the Law Changing?

Louisiana tinting laws are changing because of Rep. Daryl Deshotel, R-Marksville, whose daughter needed darker windows because of a medical condition. Instead of dealing with a maze of paperwork, he pushed Act 143, which passed easily.

The old rules required a doctor’s note, state police approval, and a special decal for medical exemptions. The new law skips that hassle for everyone. 25% VLT on front side windows is a a much darker limited compared to most states. As a result, drivers will be less inclined to install illegal window tint.

What About Police Safety?

Among other things, tint laws mainly exist to help police see inside cars during stops. But this bill faced little pushback from law enforcement. The Louisiana Sheriffs Association didn’t oppose it. The Chiefs of Police only filed a brief objection early on, then backed off.

Capt. Randolph Harrell from the Baker Police Department acknowledged the risks but said basic courtesy goes a long way. “Roll your window down. Turn your dome light on. That’s all it takes.”

This doesn’t mean you should install darker than legal tint, though. If anything, law enforcement will likely be even more strict about violating tint laws, so don’t get carried away. If your tint is too dark, the old fines still apply. For a first offense, the fine is $150. Third or subsequent offenses carry a $350 fine.

Boost for the Tinting Business

For tint shops, this is a potential jackpot. Local business owners have expressed excitement over potential increased tinting installation jobs. According to some, customers previously denied due to illegal darkness requests are likely to come back now.

Let’s be honest: Louisiana heat is no joke. Darker tints can seriously help cool your car and take some pressure off the A/C. For folks with light sensitivity, it’s not just increased comfort, but also a necessity.

“Window tint is a necessity for some that operate on the roadways,” said the Baker Police Department in a statement.

Conclusion

Front window tint limits in Louisiana state just got darker. The new tint law kicks in August 1, 2025. Police are cool with it (mostly). Drivers? Definitely cooler—literally.

Just remember to always stay legal. See our Louisiana tint laws page for a comprehensive overview of state laws.