What is legal tint, anyway?
So, you’re looking to give your car a little more privacy and style with window tinting. You might be thinking about upgrading your windows for better sun protection or just because it looks cool! But before you grab that squeegee and get started, it’s super important to understand Arizona’s legal tint guidelines.
In Arizona, the legal limit on window tint is a bit complicated, especially if you’re new to this stuff. It involves figuring out how much light can pass through your windows. This is because tinted windows reflect some of the sunlight away, and that affects visibility for both driver and passenger alike. This law is designed to ensure clear views and safe driving.
But don’t worry! There are different rules for different parts of the car, with specific requirements depending on what you want to tint. Let’s break down the legal limits for window tinting in Arizona, based on the year 2024:
**Rear Windows:**
For your rear windows (the ones facing back) there are a few rules. You can’t have more than a **15% VLT** (Visible Light Transmission). This means that at least 85% of the light must be visible through your rear window.
**Front Windows:**
Now, things get a little trickier with the front windows. Here’s what you need to know: **20% VLT is the maximum for both driver and passenger side front windows.** What this means is that at least 80% of the light must pass through these windows, so your view isn’t obstructed.
**Mirrors:**
As a helpful reminder, mirrors on the car itself are **exempt from VLT regulations**. You can tint them darker than normal without breaking any laws!
**Windshield:**
The most important part of your car’s windows will be the windshield. Here, you have a specific limit imposed by the state: **the front windshield cannot be tinted**, even if it’s in Arizona. You also can’t tint the side windows.
**What about other factors?**
While those limits are super important, there’s something else you need to keep in mind when getting your car tinted: **the legal tint film must be applied professionally**. The film needs to be installed correctly with proper tools and techniques. Otherwise, it might not meet the requirements or even cause safety issues.
**The Importance of Professional Application:**
Here’s why professional application matters so much: first, it ensures that the tint is properly applied to your car windows. Second, they can help you choose the right film in terms of color and VLT percentage that will meet your needs while also meeting Arizona’s legal requirements.
**Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT):**
If you have any doubts or questions regarding Arizona’s legal tint limits, it’s good to go straight to the source: **the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). They have a website dedicated to providing updated information on vehicle regulations, including window tinting.** You can check out their official site here for detailed information and resources.
**Final Thoughts:**
Getting your car tinted in Arizona is often about finding the right balance between style and legality. Understanding these limits will help you avoid potential issues with police officers or other authorities. Don’t rush into it! Make sure you do your research, find a reputable tint installer who can answer all of your questions and get started on a project that’s both stylish and legal in Arizona.
