Quick summary:
| South Dakota Tint Laws | |
|---|---|
| Front Windshield | AS-1 line |
| Front Side Windows | 35% |
| Back Side Windows | 20% |
| Rear Windshield | 20% |
Last updated on: . Confirmed accurate for 2026. Attorney verified
South Dakota tint laws primarily regulate the darkness, but also specify other rules and regulations you need to know about such as reflectiveness or color restrictions. All laws are explained further below.
Window Tint Darkness in South Dakota
Window tint darkness is measured in VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percent. VLT indicates how much light passes through both the film and the glass.
Drag the blue slider above to preview tint darkness. In most real world cases, applied tint will appear 10-20% darker compared to our tool.
See: VLT explained with chart and darkness examples
How dark can your window tint be in South Dakota?
Here's exactly how much VLT is allowed on your auto window tint in South Dakota (SK), categorized by passenger and multi-purpose vehicles.
Tint darkness for passenger vehicles:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Back side windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
- Rear window: Must allow more than 20% of light in.
Passenger vehicles include: sedan, coupe, convertible, station wagon, hardtop and hatchback vehicles.
Tint darkness for multi-purpose vehicles (MPV):
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
- Front side windows: Must allow more than 35% of light in.
- Back side windows: Must allow more than 20% of light in. Any darkness can be applied several (unspecified) inches from the top of the window.
- Rear window: Must allow more than 20% of light in. Any darkness can be applied several (unspecified) inches from the top of the window.
Multi-purpose vehicles include: SUV, pickup, van, truck, RV, and minibus.
AS-1 line typically extends 4-6 inches parallel to the top of your windshield. AS-1 designation line is typically marked in bottom or top edge of your windshield.
Some state tint laws specify exact number of inches you are allowed to tint on front windshields. Other states define this windscreen area simply as an AS-1 line. Learn more about AS-1 Line.
Federal vehicle ID label found on driver's front door frame will tell you whether your vehicle is classified as passenger or multi purpose vehicle.
How reflective can your window tint be in South Dakota?
Tinting film may contain metallic elements which help in reflecting incoming light. This reduces glare and heat generated by visible light. Below you can find out how much reflection is permitted on your car window tint film by law in South Dakota.
Tint reflection for sedans:
- Front Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
- Back Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
Tint reflection for SUV and vans:
- Front Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
- Back Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
Learn about Reflective window tint.
Other South Dakota tinting rules and regulations:
Other laws, rules and regulations in South Dakota include the following:
There are no restrictions on side mirrors in South Dakota.
No colors of tint are explicitly restricted.
Film manufacturers need to certify the film they sell in South Dakota. Check with your dealer to confirm they are using certified film.
The sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on each tinted window.
South Dakota law does not allow any medical exemptions that would allow using special car window tint.
Remember that state tint laws may be interpreted differently by your local law authorities. Get in touch with your county DMV or police department to make sure you are not breaking South Dakota window tinting laws, rules and regulations.
Our article about South Dakota tint laws is up to date as of 2026. Last change was made on September 29th, 2026 (approximately 2 weeks ago).
You can rest assured our legal experts are immediately notified of changes, and will always update this article with latest legislation when required.
Official law sources:
South Dakota Codified Laws sections 32-15-2.4 through 32-15-5: Sunscreening devices
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