Auto repair

Windshield laws in South Dakota

09.11.2022 /

If you are a South Dakota licensed driver, you already know about the numerous traffic rules you must follow when driving on the roads. However, there is more to the rules of the road than just your own actions. Motorists are also required to ensure that their vehicles meet state requirements. Below are the windshield laws that drivers in South Dakota must follow.

windshield requirements

South Dakota has the following windshield and related device requirements:

  • All vehicles must have a windshield for road traffic.

  • All vehicles must have windshield wipers that can remove rain, snow, and other moisture from the windshield.

  • Windshield wipers must be under the control of the driver and be in good condition.

  • All vehicles must have safety glass that is manufactured to provide increased safety and reduce the chance of glass breaking or flying on the windshield and all other windows.

Obstacles

South Dakota also limits potential obstructions to the driver's view of the roadway.

  • Posters, signs, and other opaque materials are not allowed on the windshield, side fenders, front and rear side windows, or on the rear window.

  • Only stickers or permits required by law may be placed on the windshield or any other glass and must be affixed in a position that does not block the driver's view.

  • No items are allowed that dangle, hang or attach between the driver and the windshield.

Window tinting

Window tinting is legal in South Dakota if it meets the following requirements:

  • Windshield tinting must be non-reflective and only applied to the area above the factory AS-1 line.

  • The front side window tint must allow more than 35% of the light to pass through the combined film and glass.

  • Rear side and rear window tinting must have a light transmittance of more than 20%.

  • Mirror and metallic shades are not allowed on the windows or on the windshield.

Cracks and chips

South Dakota is very strict about windshield cracks and chips. In fact, it is prohibited to drive on the carriageway of a vehicle that has cracks, chips or other defects on the windshield or any other glass.

Violations

Drivers in South Dakota who do not comply with windshield laws while driving on the roadway can be pulled over by law enforcement and fined $120 or more for a first offense.

If you need to inspect your windshield or your wipers aren't working properly, a certified technician like one of AvtoTachki can help you get back on the road safely and quickly so you're driving within the law.

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