Arizona Tint Laws

Arizona Tint laws vary from state to state, and in January of 2020, Arizona updated its regulations regarding window tints. Arizona window tints are measured by visible light transmission (VLT), which is the amount of light that passes through the windows. The VLT is measured in percentages, and the higher the percentage, the more light is able to pass through the window. 

The VLT percentage is also a good way to tell how dark the window tint is, with a lower percentage equating a darker tint. For example, window tint with a 5% VLT means that only 5% of the light can pass through, making the tint very dark. On the other hand, 80% VLT allows 80% of light to pass through, making it a lighter tint.

Is Window Tint Legal in Arizona?

Window tinting is allowed in the state of Arizona, so long as it adheres to the state laws. Most Arizona window tint laws are uniform across passenger and multipurpose vehicles. Depending on which window you're planning to cover in tinted film, Arizona tint laws will vary. 

For both passenger vehicles and multipurpose vehicles, the guidelines for window tinting are as follows:

• Front windows: Tinted film should be no greater than 35% VLT for both driver's and passenger-side windows.
• Rear passenger windows: There is no limitation on how dark the tint can be on the rear passenger windows.
• Back window: Like the rear passenger windows, the back window can be as dark as you want.
• Windshield: Tint is only allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line on the windshield, which is usually the top six inches of the windshield. If there is tint there, it can only be non-reflective.

Arizona also has guidelines for how reflective the tinted film can be. While the windshield is not allowed any reflective film at all, the rest of the vehicle's windows must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Front windows: Window tints cannot be more than 35% reflective.
• Rear passenger windows: Similarly, rear windows, if tinted, must be 35% reflective or less, with 5% reflective being the lowest option.
• Back window: Like the passenger windows, the back window is allowed reflective tinted film, but the film must be more than 5% reflective and less than 35% reflective.

Other Considerations

Like most states, Arizona has certain exceptions to the aforementioned guidelines, as well as additional regulations:

• Tint color: Any color of tinted film is permissible except for red and amber. Having amber or red-tinted film on any of your vehicle windows is against the law and would be considered a violation.
• Stickers: Some states require vehicles to have a sticker from the window installer to signify the tinting is legal. Arizona does not require such stickers.
• Certifications: Companies that manufacture window films are not required by law to certify the film they sell.
• Exemptions: Arizona does offer medical exemptions to its window tint laws. Those who require a darker tint than legally allowed may apply for a medical exception by presenting a letter signed by a physician stating the need for darker tints. The exemption applies to your own vehicle as well as any vehicle in which you're a regular passenger.
• Mirrors: While there's no restriction on the darkness for back windows, Arizona window tint laws do specify that a tinted back window is only acceptable with two side mirrors. This is to compensate for the potential obstruction of the view from the back window. If your vehicle is not equipped with dual side mirrors, you cannot have a tinted back window.

While the windshield must remain unobstructed for the safety of the vehicle's passengers, some stickers are allowed on the windshield. On the driver's side, a sticker that measures 5-by-5 inches is allowed in the lower corner of the windshield. On the passenger side, a sticker measuring 7-by-7 inches is permissible in the lower corner of the windshield.

The essence of these regulations is to make sure every driver has a clear and unobstructed view while driving. By adhering to these tint laws, drivers can take advantage of the benefits of window tints without sacrificing their safety or the safety of others.

Violation of Tint Laws

Arizona window tint laws are just that: laws. Failure to abide by these laws without a valid exemption can result in a fine.

Authorities can stop your car if they suspect the tint may be darker than legally allowed. Most use a tint meter, which can measure how much light can pass through a tinted window, to confirm their suspicions. The tint meter will help determine how severe the violation is, and the consequences will vary on that severity. If it turns out the tint is, in fact, darker than legally allowed, you will likely get a citation. 

Arizona has what's called an Equipment Repair Order, colloquially known as a Fix-It Ticket. Authorities give this ticket when vehicles are deemed unsafe in some way, including if the vehicle's window tint is too dark, the windshield is cracked or a taillight is broken. After receiving a Fix-It Ticket, the driver has five days to get the problem fixed without having to pay a large fine. If the driver fails to fix the issue within the allotted time, they can be fined. 

The Fix-It Ticket is a good way to fix any vehicle violations without having the violation permanently on your record.

Affordable and Stylish Window Tints From Rvinyl

Window tints provide numerous benefits, including increased privacy and protection from the sun's harmful rays. With Rvinyl's window tint kits, installing tinted film to your vehicle's windows is even easier. Choose from a wide selection of tints, ranging from darkness and thickness to the type of tint itself.

Our line of window tints is easy to use, but if you do make a mistake, we offer discounted parts, saving you the trouble of buying an entire kit again. Increase your vehicle's resale value by protecting the interior with one of our window tint films today. For further questions or more information, feel free to get in touch — we're happy to help!

DISCLAIMER: This information is not provided by legal professionals and is intended only to complement, not replace or contradict, any legal advice or information provided by your state or legal professionals. The information in this resource does not necessarily reflect that of Rvinyl and/or its affiliates. If you have questions, please contact your local state authorities and/or an attorney or other legal professional.