Back in 1996, Alabama introduced its laws regarding car window tinting, and to this day, they remain in place. As a responsible driver, it’s important to be aware of the requirements for your vehicle’s tinting, including the level of darkness and reflectivity that is permitted in the state. It’s not just a matter of aesthetics – it’s also a safety concern. However, it’s not just the tint itself that is regulated. Alabama has additional rules and regulations surrounding car window tinting, and it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with them to avoid any unwanted fines or penalties. Take a moment to read on and ensure you’re up to speed on all the details.
Two crucial aspects of auto window tinting that you should know are Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR). We’ll discuss each of these in turn shortly, beginning with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Alabama (VLT)
Window Tint Darkness or Visible light transmission (VLT) is a measure of the amount of light that passes through a film. It’s measured in percentages and can range from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
For window tinting laws, every state has its own unique regulations that must be adhered to. The amount of light that may pass through tinted glass in Alabama, for example, may differ from that of other states. There may be variations between the requirements for passenger vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles. To avoid any potential legal issues, it’s crucial that you carefully review and understand the specific tinting laws and regulations in Alabama. Don’t take any chances – take the time to familiarize yourself with the details.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Alabama:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use maximum up to 32% tint darkness.
Back Side windows: You can use a maximum 32% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use a maximum 32% tint darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Alabama:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 32% tint darkness for front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can use any darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any darkness for rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in Alabama (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. The amount of visible light reflection (VLR) allowed by Alabama’s window tinting laws is measured as a percentage, ranging from 0% to 100%. A lower VLR percentage shows that less visible light will be reflected into the car, resulting in more sunlight being blocked. It’s important to note that Alabama’s window tint law does permit a specific percentage of window reflection when using tint. So, it’s also crucial to pay attention to this aspect as well to ensure that your vehicle’s tint falls within the legal limit. Be sure to keep this in mind when selecting and installing window tinting for your car.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Alabama:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the back side windows of a passenger vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Alabama:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the backside windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not be more than 20% reflective.
Other Alabama Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
For window tinting, Alabama takes its regulations seriously. There are a multitude of rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure that your vehicle’s tint is legal. Besides adhering to specific percentages for darkness and glare on each window, there are other guidelines that must be observed as well. These include:
Side Mirrors: In Alabama, there are no specific regulations concerning the tinting of side mirrors.
Restricted Colors: If you’re wondering about the acceptable colors for car window tint in Alabama, you’ll be happy to know that all hues are allowed under state law. So, when it comes to choosing a shade for your vehicle’s windows, the options are limitless.
Certificates: Manufacturers of the film must certify the film they sell in the Alabama state. The address and the name must clearly be seen on that certificate. Drivers must be able to show the certificate when asked, so it is sensible to keep it with them at all times.
Stickers: Alabama State law also requires tint film installation companies must also give the vehicle’s owner a sticker or certificate with their name and address.
Medical Exceptions: Alabama state law permits medical exemptions for lower tint on all windows for individuals with certain clinical necessities. As required by the medical exemption law in Alabama, the driver of a vehicle with darker tinted windows must not only have the document issued by the window tint installer but also a clinical note from the specialist doctor providing details of the special needs.
Penalties For Non-Compliance: The maximum penalty for a first conviction is either a fine of $100 or 10 days in prison, while a second conviction within a year carries a maximum penalty of either $200 or 30 days in jail. If the offense is a third or subsequent one within a year, the maximum penalty is $500 and/or up to 3 months in prison, as determined by a law enforcement officer.
Conclusion
The 2023 Alabama window tint law declares that only the upper six inches of the front windshield may be tinted with transparent material. The side and rear windows may be tinted as long as they allow at least 32% of light to pass through, with a tolerance of 3%. Also, the tinting material applied to these windows must not be too reflective, meaning that it cannot reflect more than 20% of light. It is important to note that these requirements apply to all vehicles on the road, and it is the responsibility of the owner to ensure that their windows comply. Failure to follow these rules may cause fines or other penalties.
Disclaimer
The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or as a substitute for the advice of an attorney. No user of this site, or any other person or entity that may have received this information, shall rely upon the information contained as creating an attorney-client relationship between such user and Car Glass Advisor. The rules and regulations pertaining to a car window tint in Alabama may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.
Alabama Tint Law References:
- Alabama Code Title 32, Chapter 5C: Window tinting and medical exceptions
- Alabama Department of Public Safety – Window Tinting Regulations (.pdf file)
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency – Tinting Regulations