Brief Guide to Arizona Tint Laws
The general legality of windshield tinting in Arizona is governed by state regulation §28-1449. The law specifies the permitted visible light transmission (VLT) rate for tint on different areas of a windshield. Arizona tint law, unlike many other states, does not specify a maximum allowable darkness for windshield tint. Backwards on this matter, Arizona sets the lowest lawful VLT amount for tint on a windshield at 70 percent VLT – meaning that only 30 percent of all light falling on the tinted area can be transmitted through the tint film to enter the vehicle. Arizona tint law also does not employ different legal requirements for the top strip of tint on a windshield versus the rest of the windshield, as many states do. Rather, the same unmistakable 70 percent VLT amount is required throughout the entire area of the windshield to which tint may be legally applied: The top strip and all other areas of the windshield not obscured by manufacturer tint are subject to the same standard. Adhering to the minimum VLT specification, windshield tint is legal in Arizona for passenger vehicles , SUVs and vans only if it transmits at least 70 percent of all available light. The law further requires that only non-reflective tint be installed on the windshield, meaning that the top strip – sometimes called an "eyebrow" – of permitted tint may be installed only if it contains no more than 35 percent reflectivity. The top strip may be no wider than 4 inches, from its uppermost edge. The rest of the windshield must be kept clear. As with the rest of the windshield, Arizona tint law requires the top strip to transmit a minimum 70 percent of all available light entering the vehicle. Since the top strip, and only the top strip, of permitted windshield tint may contain reflectivity, no more than 10 percent of all available light may be reflected by the top strip of tint when using a layer that does not meet the minimum VLT requirement. Arizona tint law does not currently make any provision for manufacturers certification or labeling of window tint film. In addition, Arizona issues no state-issued certification sticker, decal, or label.
Permitted Tint on Windshields
Regarding windshields, Arizona law requires all vehicles to have at least a non-reflective 70% tint along the top of the windshield. This applies to anyone with regular, passenger, pickup, truck, SUV or van on the road today. The law also states that the entire windshield must allow at least 70% light in through your windshield. This leaves just 30% to block the sun. In other words, if you have even a factory tint on your windshield, that will likely be enough to meet Arizona Tint Law requirements.
Exceptions and Special Conditions
There are few exemptions to the window tint laws in Arizona. The only substantial exemption is for individuals who are issued a medical exemption. In certain medical situations where exposure to UV rays or sunlight can cause or exacerbate a medical condition, tinting for reducing exposure may be allowed. The exemption must come from the manufacturer or distributor of vehicle glass tinting products. All documentation should be kept in the vehicle at all times. If you have received a note from your doctor recommending sun protection in your vehicle, that note will not hold up with the law enforcement officials who are available to enforce the window tint laws in Arizona. These exemptions are only available when they are awarded by the Department of Preventive Health Services.
It is important to understand that this law is only applicable to front dual side windows and the windshield. Vehicles manufactured prior to 1989 that had tinted glass in compliance with the laws at that time will be exempt from tinting requirements for these windows. Additionally, temporary plates from a licensed dealer will not be subject to the tinting requirements for the front two windows and windshield.
Implications of Illegal Tinting
When it comes to the consequences of illegal tinting, the state of Arizona has a fairly straightforward approach. When a police officer or another member of law enforcement designates the tinting of your windshield to be illegal, they will usually issue what is called a "repair order." This document does not count as a ticket, and it is not an offense. Instead, it merely requires that you remove or command the tint to be removed from your windshield, with a deadline set for when this must be completed.
The repair order will include instructions, such as having the tint inspected by a specifically trained individual or an extension of the deadline if the tint was added for a medical reason, for instance . Failing to comply with the repair order will lead to a traffic citation, however, which will remain a civil traffic citation. Civil traffic citations are distinct from criminal traffic citations in that drivers must pay a fine directly to the court, while they can also be ordered to complete community service as well.
Should you fail to comply with a repair order, your citation will count as a moving violation, and this will then go on your driving record. It could end up raising your automobile insurance rates, and, depending on the frequency of your citations or serious traffic offenses, could even impact your overhead costs, whether you’re driving personally or for work.
Advice for Tint Compliance
To ensure that your vehicle’s tint is in full compliance with Arizona law, consider the following guidelines:
Choose the Right Shade
If you’re considering having your car tinted, shop with the law in mind. Choosing a shade that’s obviously darker than the legal limits, especially when there are exemptions for those with medical conditions, not only means that the tint must be removed but also carries the risk of receiving a citation until it’s removed. As discussed earlier, Arizona law allows for different levels of tinting for different locations. Consult a professional when choosing a shade so that you’re not left with a ticket at best and a safety hazard at worst.
Consider the Location
It’s hard to overstate the importance of location when it comes to selecting a tint. Many people love the sleek, less traditional look of medium to dark tint on the front windshield, but be cautious: this is one area where dark shades fail to meet the legal requirements for window tint in AZ. The windshield is the most crucial part of your vehicle’s windows, and, as such, it has more stringent legal requirements. Drivers must have at least 35 percent of light allowed in through their windshield. If you must tint your windshield, a strip no wider than five inches across the top is a good option, as it provides some privacy yet still allows for safe visibility.
Professionals Are Here to Help
If you’re considering installing a tint on your windshield or other areas of your vehicle, be sure to consult with a professional familiar with Arizona’s tint laws. Daniel’s Glass of Scottsdale offers free consultations for all of our clients. We’ll help you find a tint that fits your needs, your comfort level and the law.
Check Before You Hit the Road
If you’re unsure about your tint’s compliance with the law, don’t take chances. If you’ve recently purchased a vehicle with tint that you suspect is too dark, make sure to have a professional check for you before you hit the road. Or, if you suspect that your tint has begun to fade or wear and tear has left it less than compliant, visit a tint professional to have the windows tested.
Types of Tints and Their Advantages
The different types of window tints available vary in terms of the level of light they let through, their ability to block heat, UV rays, and in some cases, enhance privacy. Here are the six most common ones:
1. Factory Window Tint
This is applied to the glass during the glass manufacturing process. It usually has a very light tint and provides some level of UV protection. The downside is that factory window tint cannot be reapplied and in case of damage, you will have to change the entire window.
2. Dyed Window Tint
Dyed window tint is the least expensive type. Its only function is to block sunlight so it has very little heat-blocking properties or UV protection. Since it is just a dye, it can easily be scratched off or damaged.
3. Metalized Window Tint
Metalized window tint has a metallic component that reflects sunlight. These tend to be more expensive to install, which makes sense because they are able to protect from UV rays and sun heat. However, if not installed properly, they are prone to scratching. This includes windshields which tend to become unstable over time. You may also find that metalized window tint blocked your signal for reception of hands-free devices , radio and satellite services, and GPS.
4. Ceramic Window Tint
This tint contains ceramic in its composition which gives it unique properties. It has a high heat and UV blocking capability. A significant benefit of this type is that it does not interfere with your device signals. It is also durable and does not fade over time.
5. Carbon Window Tint
This type uses carbon fibers which, although not metallic, still manages to offer good infrared heat protection to your vehicle. The tint is effective without having to be very dark. It blocks 40%-50% of infrared rays at 1.0 mil thickness and they offer decent UV protection as well. A big advantage is that this type of tint can last for years without fading.
6. Crystalline Window Tint
Crystalline window tint is a very different category of tint. It allows for more light to enter into your car than other types of tint but still provides adequate heat and UV protection. The added advantage is that it does not violate the window tint laws in Arizona even though it is much less dark in color compared to other options.