• Front windshield: Must have at least 70% light transmittance.
• Front-side windows: Must have at least 70% light transmittance.
• Back seat side windows: any tint darkness can be used.
• Rear window: any tint darkness can be used.
WINDOW TINT SHADE EXAMPLES
WINDOW TINT FAQ
Question: I was recently diagnosed with a light sensitive condition. Can I obtain a medical
exemption from the 70% standard?
Answer: No. Medical exemptions shall not be granted on or after July 4, 2012. However,
many nearly transparent UV-blocking window films for vehicles are on the market. Visit
skincancer.org for more information.
Question: I lost my medical exemption Form 432020. Can I obtain a replacement?
Answer: No. Form 432020 is no longer available. Any dark window exemption forms that
are still valid would have been signed by the person’s physician before July 4, 2012.
Question: What happens if law enforcement issues me a ticket for a window tint violation?
Answer: A ticket issued by law enforcement must be addressed through the court system.
Any questions about the ticket should be sent to law enforcement or as explained on the
ticket.
Question: Why did I receive a notice of suspension of my registration and plates due to a
window tint violation?
Answer: Under Iowa Code 321.101(1)(b), law enforcement may send the Iowa DOT a
request to suspend your registration and plates for operating a mechanically unfit or
unsafe vehicle. The Iowa DOT will send you a notice with the date your suspension will be
effective. You will also receive a form that contains your vehicle information and an area
for a law enforcement agency to certify your window tint complies with Iowa law (IA DOT
Form 442102). You will have 20 days to appeal the suspension or to return the certified
form stating that your window tint is now in compliance. Refer to your notice of
suspension for additional information.
70% 20% 35% 50%
IOWA WINDOW TINTING STANDARDS
Iowa law prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle with a front windshield, or
front-side windows, that do not meet a standard of transparency of 70% or
more light transmittance.
Medical exceptions can no longer be approved under Iowa law.
Previously approved medical exemptions: Medical exemptions approved
before July 4, 2012, may apply to operators or passengers of motor vehicles.
The medical exemption is only valid if the window tint exemption Form 432020
is carried in the vehicle, the vehicle being driven is the same vehicle as when
the form was initially issued, and the form properly documents:
• The customer’s name
• The medical need for reduced transparency
• The signature of an authorized medical provider
For more information, please contact Motor Vehicle Division,
