Alabama DMV Tint Laws: Window Percentage, Legal Guidelines & Coverage Requirements

Important Points

• According to Alabama law, cars’ front side windows must allow over 32% of light to enter.
• Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 6 inches of the windshield.
• Backside and rear windows must also allow more than 32% of light to come in.
• The reflectivity of any tint must not exceed 20% for both front and back windows.
• Medical exemptions are available for those who require special tinting due to certain conditions.

Alabama DMV Tint Laws: Window Percentage, Legal Guidelines & Coverage Requirements

It’s essential for car owners in Alabama who wish to customize their vehicles to understand the state’s window tint laws. Established in 1996, these laws define the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage, or the amount of light that can pass through the window tint film that is legally allowed for different windows on a car.

Alabama Tint Laws: A Brief Summary

The state of Alabama has implemented certain rules and regulations concerning window tinting, which aim to strike a balance between drivers’ safety and privacy. These laws specify the acceptable Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages for various types of vehicles and also outline the limits on reflectivity and the tint colors that are permitted.

In addition, Alabama implements these rules to guarantee that visibility is not impaired, which could result in accidents. Being aware of these laws can help you avoid penalties and legal problems.

Window Tint Percentage Rules

VLT percentage is the amount of light that can pass through a window. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the window tint is. Alabama’s laws have different VLT percentages for other windows on a car. You can check out Colorado DMV tint laws for more details on similar regulations.

Rules for Tinting the Windshield

Alabama law permits non-reflective tint to be applied to the top 6 inches of the windshield. This rule ensures the driver can see the road clearly while still offering some protection from the sun.

“The windshield’s top 6 inches can have non-reflective tint to shield from the sun without blocking the view.”

Maximum Tinting for Front Side Windows

The front side windows should allow over 32% of light. This rule is the same for sedans and SUVs/vans to ensure drivers can clearly see their surroundings. For more information, you can check out the Illinois SOS tint laws, which provide similar guidelines.

• Front Side Windows: More than 32% of light must be able to pass through.
• This law is essential for the safety of the driver.

Tinting of Back Side Windows and Rear Window

Like the front side windows, the back and rear windows are also required to allow more than 32% of light in. This requirement ensures that the driver can see clearly in all directions, which is especially important when backing up or changing lanes.

These rules are primarily designed to balance privacy and safety. They allow a reasonable amount of light to pass through, so drivers can still enjoy the benefits of tinted windows without sacrificing visibility.

Separate Regulations for SUVs and Vans

For those in Alabama who own SUVs or vans, the tinting laws are not the same as they are for sedans. These vehicles’ size and function are different, as are the rules. For example, SUVs and vans usually have bigger rear windows and can be tinted darker without creating a safety hazard.

Here are the precise rules for SUVs and vans:

• Front Side Windows: Need to let in more than 32% of light, the same as sedans.
• Back Side Windows: This can be tinted darker than the front windows, but the tint still needs to let in more than 32% of light.
• Rear Window: Can also be tinted darker, as long as it lets in more than 32% of light.

Reference:

https://www.cartintlaw.com/alabama/

Legal Guidelines for Window Tinting

In addition to the VLT percentages, Alabama has other legal guidelines that must be followed to ensure compliance with tint laws. These guidelines help maintain safety and visibility for all road users.

Reflectivity Rules

Reflective tint can create a glare and limit visibility, which is why Alabama has set strict rules on the reflectivity of window tint. For both front and back windows, the reflectivity of the tint cannot be more than 20%. This ensures that while you can enjoy the perks of tinting, you do not create dangerous conditions for other drivers.

Allowed Tint Colors

Alabama tint laws also dictate what tint colors are allowed. Some colours can either be distracting or reduce visibility more than others. For this reason, the state has limited the options to ensure safety and metallic and mirrored tints are usually not allowed. Always check the most recent regulations or talk to a professional tinting service to ensure your tint color is compliant.

Medical Exceptions

There are medical exceptions in Alabama for those who need special window tinting due to medical conditions. If you have a condition that requires a darker tint, you can apply for an exception. This typically requires providing medical paperwork and getting a certificate from the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

Conditions like lupus, melanoma, and other skin conditions that worsen with sun exposure might make you eligible for an exemption. If you’re approved, you can use a tint darker than what’s usually allowed. For more details, check out the Ultimate Guide To Window Tint Laws In Alabama.

Window Tint Coverage Requirements

Alabama has additional rules regarding the coverage and installation of window tint beyond the VLT and reflectivity rules. These rules ensure the tint is correctly applied and certified.

Tint Film Certification

The tint film you use in Alabama has to be certified by the manufacturer. This certification guarantees that the film meets the state’s safety and quality standards. If you’re getting your windows tinted, always request certified film to prevent legal problems.

Required Compliance Stickers

Furthermore, Alabama law mandates that a compliance sticker be put on your vehicle to show that the tinting follows state regulations. This sticker is typically placed between the film and the glass on the driver’s side window. It’s a minor but crucial step in ensuring you abide by the law.

You could face various consequences if you don’t adhere to Alabama’s window tinting laws. These consequences are intended to promote compliance with the rules and maintain road safety.

Penalties and Legal Ramifications

If your car’s tint violates the law, you could face penalties and other legal ramifications. The penalties can differ based on the seriousness of the infraction and if it is a recurring violation. In addition to penalties, you may be mandated to remove the illegal tint and substitute it with a legal one.

Repeated violations can lead to more severe penalties, including higher fines and potential court appearances. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure your vehicle’s tint complies with Alabama’s laws to avoid these issues.

Consequences for Non-Adherence

Not adhering to Alabama’s window tinting laws can lead to various consequences. These consequences are intended to promote compliance with the rules and maintain road safety.

Not adhering to the legal requirements for your vehicle’s tint could result in fines and other legal repercussions. The amount of the penalties can fluctuate based on the severity of the violation and if it’s a repeated offense. In addition to penalties, you may be required to remove the non-compliant tint and substitute it with a legal one.

It’s worth noting that repeat offenders may face stiffer penalties, including increased fines and possible court dates. So, to avoid these problems, ensure your car’s tint meets Alabama’s regulations.

• You’ll be hit with a hefty fine the first time you’re caught.
• If you continue to ignore the law, the fines will increase, and you may have to go to court.
• If your tint doesn’t meet the legal requirements, you’ll have to remove it and replace it with one that does.

In addition to the immediate hit to your wallet, having to get your vehicle re-tinted can be a real hassle. It’s much easier to make sure you comply the get-go.

Penalties and Legal Ramifications

If you don’t comply with Alabama’s tint laws, you could be fined anywhere from $100 to $200 for a first offense. If you offend again, the fines could be even higher, and you might have to go to court. The court might also give you additional punishments, like community service or probation.

How Police Officers Discover Violations

During a traffic stop, a police officer may use a tint meter to determine the VLT percentage of your windows. You can expect to get a ticket if your tint is too dark or too reflective. Regular vehicle inspections can also uncover illegal tint, resulting in fines.

Commonly Asked Questions

Vehicle owners often have questions about the window tint laws in Alabama. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you stay informed and compliant. For instance, you can also check out the North Carolina DMV tint laws for additional insights.

How dark can front-side window tints be in Alabama?

Alabama law stipulates that front-side windows must let at least 32% of light through. This ensures drivers have adequate visibility, which is essential for safety. For comparison, you can also check out the tint laws in South Carolina.

Ensure your front-side windows adhere to this rule to prevent penalties and other legal problems.

Does Alabama law prohibit specific tint colors?

Yes, specific colors are not permitted for tinting in Alabama. In general, metallic and mirrored tints are not allowed because they can cause distractions and decrease visibility. You can check the North Carolina DMV tint laws for more details on similar regulations.

Before you decide on a tint color, you should seek advice from a professional tinting service to ensure that your choice complies with state laws.