Window tint laws in South Dakota (2026)

The rules, window by window

Windshield

No sunscreening device may be placed on the windshield so as to obstruct or diminish the driver's visibility, and no film may extend downward beyond the AS-1 line or below the lowest point of the sun visor (SDCL 32-15-2.9). The windshield is also within the front-window group that must keep combined light transmittance at or above 35 percent (SDCL 32-15-2.4).

The standard in the law's own words

SDCL 32-15-2.9 adds a qualitative windshield rule: sunscreening may not obstruct or diminish the driver's visibility.

Reflectivity

One-way glass is expressly prohibited in all regulated positions (SDCL 32-15-2.4 and 32-15-2.5); no separate numeric reflectance limit is stated.

Medical exemption

No medical exemption appears in SDCL 32-15-2.4, 32-15-2.5, 32-15-2.7, or 32-15-2.9 as read. Not confirmed either way whether an exemption exists elsewhere in chapter 32-15.

Enforcement

Violations of 32-15-2.4, 32-15-2.5, and 32-15-2.9 are Class 2 misdemeanors. Both numeric standards carry a nine percent enforcement tolerance stated in the statute. Film manufacturers must certify compliance with the light transmission specifications to the Department of Public Safety (SDCL 32-15-2.7).

Notes

Front group (front windshield, side wing vents, and side windows forward of or adjacent to the operator's seat): combined light transmittance may not be reduced below 35 percent, with a 9 percent enforcement tolerance (SDCL 32-15-2.4). Rear group (rear windows behind the operator's seat, which covers both rear side windows and the back window): light transmission may not be reduced below 20 percent, with the same 9 percent tolerance (SDCL 32-15-2.5). The statutes state combined transmittance (glazing plus film). No sedan vs MPV/SUV distinction is stated in these sections. Text verified from the South Dakota Legislature's official statute API (sdlegislature.gov).