Summary
- Louisiana recently updated its window tint laws
- On most cars, front-side and rear-side windows must be at least 25% VLT
- If you violate the law, you may owe a fine
Louisiana might not see the most sunlight of any U.S. state, but it’s close—with an average of 9.7 hours of sunlight per day, it’s the 10th sunniest state in the country.
There’s a lot of upside to living in a sunny region, but bright sunlight may make it harder to see behind the wheel. Tinting your windows can help, but Louisiana window tint laws restrict the type and level of tint you can get.
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Window Tint Darkness Limits in Louisiana
In Louisiana, windshields may be tinted (with non-reflective tint) on the top five inches or above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. For windows, the state has slightly different limits for sedans and SUVs/vans.
Limits are usually expressed as a percentage of visible light transmission (VLT). The lower the VLT value, the darker the tint.
These are the legal tint limits for sedans:
- Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 25% of light in (≥ 25% VLT)
- Back Side Windows: Must allow at least 25% of light in (≥ 25% VLT)
- Rear Window: Must allow at least 12% of light in (≥ 12% VLT)
These are the limits for SUVs and vans:
- Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 25% of light in (≥ 25% VLT)
- Back Side Windows: Any tint
- Rear Window: Any tint
These limits reflect a recent change in the law. For years, front-side windows had to be at least 40% VLT. As of August 1, 2025, these windows can now be tinted as dark as 25% VLT.
Window Tint Reflection Limits in Louisiana
In Louisiana, window tint may not be more than 20% reflective.
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Other Tint Regulations in Louisiana
Louisiana window tint laws prohibit red or amber tint.
Penalties for Illegal Tint in Louisiana
As types of traffic tickets go, window tint tickets aren’t especially severe. However, Louisiana has graduated penalties for repeat offenses:
- First Offense: Up to $150 fine
- Second Offense: Up to $250 fine
- Third or Subsequent Offense: Up to $350 fine
To reduce your risk of accidentally getting illegal tint, you should thoroughly research any installer you’re considering.
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Need Legal Help With Tint Violations?
Getting pulled over for improper tint can be an unpleasant surprise, especially if you thought you were well within the law. If you need help with a ticket, you’re looking for the best car accident lawyer New Orleans has to offer, or you need any other kind of legal help, we’re here for you.
ConsumerShield matches people like you with qualified nearby attorneys. Fill out our contact form to get started with a free, no-obligation case review.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Louisiana allows darker windows than many states, but not all. For instance, Montana allows 24% VLT on front-side windows and 14% VLT on back-side and rear windows.
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In certain lights, these tints may make your car look like an emergency vehicle. They can also significantly reduce light transmission.
