South Dakota sets 35% combined transmission for front-side glass and 20% for windows behind the driver. Its unusually large enforcement tolerance should not be treated as the tint specification.
Read the official sources ↓Rules by window
| Window | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Section 32-15-2.9 limits film to the AS-1/sun-visor boundary and prohibits obstruction or reduction of the driver’s clear view. The 35% figure in section 32-15-2.4 is not permission for full-windshield film. |
| Front side | At least 35% combined light transmission, including sidewing vents and windows forward of or beside the driver. Section 32-15-2.4. |
| Rear side | At least 20% transmission for windows behind the operator. Section 32-15-2.5. |
| Rear window | At least 20% transmission. Section 32-15-2.5. |
Testing the installed window
Section 32-15-2.4 expressly refers to the combined level. Both percentage provisions specify a 9% enforcement tolerance. Section 32-15-2.10 requires use of the meter manufacturer’s testing procedure and recording the meter’s serial number and certification date on a citation.
Certification is different from a sticker
Section 32-15-2.7 requires manufacturers to certify compliance to the Department of Public Safety. The separate label requirement in section 32-15-2.8 was repealed in 2005. An older article that still requires that label is describing the former rule.
Vehicle and medical exceptions
These provisions do not give SUVs a general darker-rear-window allowance. A medical tint waiver was not established in the reviewed statutes; check directly with the Department of Public Safety before relying on one.
Before you rely on this guide
This is general information, not legal advice, a vehicle inspection, or permission to install a particular film. Exceptions and enforcement procedures can depend on your circumstances.
- The windshield boundary is worded in relation to both the AS-1 line and lowest sun-visor point. Confirm the applicable boundary on the vehicle before installation.
- The reviewed tint provisions do not specify a numerical reflectance ceiling, prohibited tint-color list or tint-specific mirror condition. No broader exemption is implied.
The research date shows when the sources were checked. It is not the date the law took effect, and it does not mean this page is monitored continuously. This research preview still awaits human editorial review; we do not claim attorney review.
Official sources
- South Dakota Codified Law 32-15-2.4 ↗
35% combined front-window threshold and 9% enforcement tolerance.
- South Dakota Codified Laws 32-15-2 through 32-15-2.10 ↗
Rear-window 20% threshold, definitions, manufacturer certification, repealed labeling requirement and meter procedure.
- South Dakota Codified Law 32-15-2.9 ↗
Windshield visibility and AS-1/sun-visor placement restriction.