Alabama Tint Law Guide
The Alabama tint laws are outlined in Chapter 5 of the Alabama Code Of Law. The law is specific about what is and is not allowed, and what percentage relationships you need to have in order to be legal and insured in the state of Alabama. Stated very basically, the front windshield must allow a combined visibility of 70%, and the back panes must allow a 15% transmission. The window next to the driver’s side must allow a 35% transmission, while the other side of the car has no restrictions. All vehicles must have a rear view mirror, and no tint is allowed on the windshield except for a strip approximately 5 inches high at the top. This strip may also not be tinted. In terms of special permissions, there is a medical waiver available. Those on whom it is difficult to tolerate bright sunlight can be granted an exemption from the window tint laws, upon filing an affidavit with the Secretary of State. With this waiver, you can increase the VIS from 35% to 20% on the front window, from 15% to 20% on the back window, and from 70% to 35% on the windshield as long as its VLT levels are no higher than 35% otherwise , those with this special permission will be eligible for the same tint levels as someone who suffers from an eye defect. As is common around the turn of the year, there has been some talk of new tint laws in AL, but these are more focused at the moment on the old issues of tint on side windows, and how it is lowering visibility and increasing accidents. This is reflected with the fact that all but the two front windows has no percentage requirement on it. This means that any level of darkness can be observed – as long as you don’t get into legal sticky situation when driving your vehicle. It is said that some new tint laws will be in place soon, and it is advised that you check whether the tint you are getting is legal with the company before it is applied, because there are major contributions of commercial tint to accidents and fatalities in the state. Its worth bearing in mind too that sun strips on SUVs are often thought to be too excessive or, on the contrary, not excessive enough because they generally cover a strip in the centre of the window, rather than at the top.
The Deepest Legal Tint
The legal level of window tint darkness allowed in Alabama for any type of vehicle is generally around 20% VLT. This means that 20% of potential light enters the car and the other 80% of light is blocked out. This applies to all sedans, SUVs, vans, and trucks that are registered and operated on public Alabama roads. There are a few instances when cars can have darker tint, primarily SUVs and vans operating as limousines or buses. These types of vehicles can have 15% tint on the front windows and 5% tint on the rear windows. For regular passenger cars with no special exemptions, it is 20%.
Medical Exceptions To Alabama Tint Rules
There are certain conditions under which you may be able to get a medical exemption allowing for darker window tint film. The medical exemption is only for really dark tint, the Huper Optik Invo-15 is a 5% visual light transmission that would qualify for such an exemption as well. For a medical exemption, you must meet certain qualifications and criteria: You also must provide a completed window tint exemption affidavit form provided by the department and any other additional documentation which the examiners feel may be required to obtain technical assistance from other medical personnel, or any other reasons at all. Such examples may be requiring photographic images, or additional medical information. The statutes also allow an exemption from window tint limits for individuals who suffer from certain medical conditions. Those conditions are: albinism, erythematosus, bullous disease, porphyria, lupus erythematosus, actinomycosis, eczema, other skin cancers, and other chronic, photosensitized dermatoses.
Criminal Penalties For Illegal Window Tint
The penalties for illegal tint can be steep. Alabamians who are caught driving with illegal tint on their windows can be fined not just once, but twice: (1) when issued the citation for having darker than permissible tint and (2) when receiving the fine for having dark tint on your windows. The statute says that a fine of $25 can be levied for violating the required tint levels on windshields, $100 for each outboard front windows, and $100 for window tint in the rear and sides .
The tint is normally checked during a traffic stop. If a police officer believes your tint is too dark, they have a photometer that can be used to measure the amount of light being allowed to enter the vehicle. Generally, Alabama law enforcement officers routinely ignore the amount of light allowed to pass through the car.
Why You May Want To Get Legal Window Tint
The benefits of legal window tint on your car, truck, or SUV in Alabama are numerous. As mentioned before, these benefits come with medical necessity for certain drivers. The window tint allows for those who are sensitive to sunlight to drive in comfort. Advantages for using window tint on your vehicle in Alabama include:
UV Protection
Window tint blocks 99% harmful rays from the sun. Ultraviolet rays have been responsible for increasing skin cancer rates over the last several years and putting everyone at risk for developing skin cancer at some point in their life. Block these harmful rays from getting inside your car and onto your face by using window tint.
Comfort
Window tint keeps the sun from beating in your face and causing discomfort inside your vehicle. Everyone can benefit from tinted windows that help to keep the face cool and eyes shielded from the sun’s bright, blinding rays.
Less Interior Damage
Glare is one of those things that can make it difficult to see while driving, but it can also prove harmful to interior vehicles parts. The sun breaks down the chemicals in your car’s interior causing them to become dry and brittle. Exposure to UV rays causes severe damage to windows, dashboards, seats, and other components of your vehicle. Using window tint to block harmful rays protects the interior of your vehicle and helps to maintain its value over the years.
Increased Durability
Window glass is extremely fragile. It shatters easily on impact, which can prove costly to your pocketbook. Tinted window film helps to hold shattered glass in place upon impact, which protects you from serious injuries. Additionally, tint helps to hold your windows together, providing increased durability that helps to prevent annoying rattles and bangs. Instead, tinted windows provide you with a quieter ride.
Safety
Drivers are warned of not driving when having trouble seeing due to the sun. Excessive glare from the sun is dangerous for drivers and passengers. A legal limit tint is perfect for minimizing the amount of glare that gets into your vehicle–and into your eyes. It increases road safety.
Reduced Heat
It is a hot day in the south and you’re ready to go home and park in the shade. You get inside your vehicle, turn on the AC and wait. It takes many minutes of driving before the heat is removed from the car. The sun heats up your car’s interior quickly. If tinted, the heat is kept at bay, allowing the car to cool more efficiently. In this way, tinted windows reduce heat.
Choosing A Tinting Professional
When choosing a professional tinting service in Alabama, it’s essential to select one that is well-versed in state tinting laws and has a strong reputation for quality work. Look for an installer who stays current on the latest tint technologies and installation techniques, as well as one who adheres to the legal requirements outlined by the state. Ideally , you should also seek installers who provide a warranty on their work and use high-quality materials. They should offer samples or references from prior clients and be open to answering any questions you have about the tinting process. This will not only put your mind at ease but will also ensure that you receive a tint job that is compliant with Alabama’s stringent window tinting regulations. Finally, you may want to consider tinting shops that offer free estimates. Legitimate installers are not afraid to discuss their prices with you upfront, so you’ll know exactly what to expect and won’t be left in the dark about hidden charges.