Tinting your car’s windows involves putting a thin film to them in order to lessen the amount of sunlight and heat that enter the inside. Depending on your tastes and demands, this film can be created from different materials and come in different colors and hues.
Tinted windows provide a number of advantages, including less glare, security, and protection from UV rays. However, you should know that window tinting is illegal in Alaska and subject to rigorous rules.
These regulations specify the maximum allowable tint darkness, the maximum allowable reflectivity, and the maximum allowable color range. It can be very expensive to deal with the consequences of breaking these rules. If you’re going to have your automobile windows tinted in Alaska, you should familiarize yourself with the rules governing such modifications.
In addition to ensuring your legal compliance, this will provide you further information to consider when selecting a tint shade.
Window Tint Darkness in Alaska
There are strict regulations in Alaska regarding the amount of light that can pass through your car’s windows.
The quantity of visible light that can enter a room through a window is known as the visible light transmission (VLT) percentage.
For sedans, the rules for window tint darkness are as follows:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
For SUVs and vans, the rules are slightly different:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow 40% light
- Rear Window: Must allow 40% light
Keep in mind that there is a separate set of rules for buses and limos than there are for regular cars and trucks.
Window tinting in Alaska requires a certificate of conformity produced by the installer and retained in the vehicle at all times. You may rest assured that your window tint meets Alaska law thanks to this certification.
Window Tint Reflection in Alaska
Tinted windows not only cut down on the heat and brightness inside your vehicle, but they can also reflect some of that light back out, making it easier to see the road.
However, in Alaska, there are rules and regulations that must be followed regarding the reflective properties of window tint.
For sedans and SUVs, the rules for window tint reflection are the same:
- Front Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
- Back Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
It’s possible that your tint could be illegal even if it falls within the VLT criteria because of the metallic or reflected effect it produces. This is because other drivers are put in danger by highly reflective tints.
Additionally, two side mirrors are required by Alaska law if your vehicle’s back window is tinted. This is done so that when reversing or changing lanes, the driver has a clear view of what’s behind them and to the sides.
Other Alaska Window Tint Rules and Regulations
In Alaska, window tinting is subject to a number of strict regulations, including those regarding visibility and light transmission. These rules are meant to prevent injury to drivers and prevent people from exploiting window tints.
Here are the specific rules for other Alaska window tint laws and regulations:
- Side Mirrors: There are no restrictions on side mirrors in the State of Alaska
- Restricted Colors: Window tint colors permitted are green, gray, bronze, and neutral smoke.
- Certificates: Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in this state.
- Stickers: The sticker/label of compliance is required to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on each tinted window.
- Medical Exceptions: Alaska law allows for medical exemptions that would allow the use of special tints for drivers who frequently travel by vehicle. The license is renewed annually by a licensed physician.
- Penalties: Up to $300 and a $10 surcharge if not fixed within the specified time.
Always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles or law enforcement to make sure that window tinting is legal in your area before having it done.
These laws are applicable in all cities of Alaska including Whittier, Gustavus, Adak, Cordova, Eagle River, Petersburg, Wrangell, Eagle, The City and Borough of Yakutat, Dillingham, Cold Bay, Kake, Galena, Deadhorse, Unalakleet, Eska, Noorvik, Bettles, Platinum, Chugiak, Delta Junction, Diomede, Eek, Nenana, Kivalina, Wales, Alyeska, Shishmaref, Anchorage, Juneau, Fairbanks, Homer, Sitka, Nome, Ketchikan, Barrow, Wasilla, North Pole, Kodiak, Seward, Kenai, Valdez, Unalaska, Soldotna, Palmer, Tanana, Bethel, Girdwood, Kotzebue, and Pelican
Conclusion
Tints are heavily regulated by Alaska law, both in terms of darkness and reflectivity. It is vital to be aware of and adhere to these principles to avoid legal complications or fines.
varied types and models of vehicles have varied levels of visible light transmission (VLT), a measure used to quantify the darkness of window tint. Depending on the type of vehicle you drive (sedan vs. SUV), the laws regarding window tinting can be rather different.
If the back window is tinted, you must also have two side mirrors, and there are additional rules about the allowed range of tint, certification, stickers, and penalties. Make sure your window tinting is within the law in Alaska by checking with the DMV or the local authorities.
In order to enjoy the benefits of window tinting without breaking the law, it is crucial to be aware of and adhere to these restrictions. Keep a copy of the certificate of conformity in your vehicle at all times if the installation calls for one.
Click on the states below to see the applicable tinting laws.
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