Tinting your car’s windows involves putting a thin film on 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. State legislation in Arkansas specifies the parameters for legal window tinting.
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 tint your car windows in Arkansas, you should familiarize yourself with the state’s rules first.
In addition to ensuring your legal compliance, this will provide you with further information to consider when selecting a tint shade.
Window Tint Darkness in Arkansas
In Arkansas, the percentage of light allowed through your car’s window tint is very specific and varies depending on the type of vehicle.
This percentage is measured by visible light transmission (VLT), which is the amount of visible light that can pass through the window.
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 35% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% 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 25% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 10% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% of light in.
Keep in mind that there is a separate set of rules for buses and limos than there are for regular cars and trucks.
According to Arkansas law, you must also have a certificate of conformity from the window tint installer in your car at all times. Your window tinting is in compliance with Arkansas state law thanks to this certification.
Window Tint Reflection in Arkansas
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.
Nevertheless, window tint reflection is subject to tight regulations in the state of Arkansas.
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 Arkansas 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 Arkansas Window Tint Rules and Regulations
In Arkansas, window tinting is subject to a number of strict rules, including those governing the level of darkness and the amount of reflection allowed.
These rules are meant to prevent injury to drivers and prevent people from exploiting window tints.
Here are the specific rules for other Arkansas window tint laws and regulations:
- Side Mirrors: No restrictions.
- Restricted Colors: No colors are prohibited by law
- Certificates: Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in this state.
- Stickers: The sticker/label of compliance is not required to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on each tinted window.
- Medical Exceptions: Arkansas law allows for medical exemptions that would allow the use of special tints.
- Penalties: Class B misdemeanor.
Before getting your windows tinted, you should always double-check with the DMV or the police to be sure it’s not against the law.
Counties including Pulaski, Benton, and Washington in Arkansas are covered by these statutes.
Conclusion
Arkansas law places rigorous limits on the darkness and reflectivity of colors, among other significant rules and regulations. 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 by contacting the Arkansas DMV or local law enforcement.
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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