Car window tinting offers protection from the sun’s harsh rays and enhances your vehicle’s style and privacy. However, it’s crucial to stay within Arizona tint laws to avoid costly fines or citations. At TINT 360 in Phoenix, we aim to keep you informed about Arizona legal tint regulations so you can make the best decision for your vehicle.
Arizona law states the amount and manner of window tinting a motor vehicle may have to be lawfully operated in this state. It is a violation of law to operate a vehicle that does not meet the window tinting requirements.
What are Arizona’s Car Window Tinting Requirements?
The law describes window tint in terms of darkness and reflectivity. It also refers to visible light transmission (VLT), or the percentage of light the tint allows into the vehicle. In Arizona, the law restricts what percentage of VLT is legal according to different windows and vehicles. Arizona Revised Statute 28-959.01 lays out the rules a driver must follow if tinting his or her vehicle if it is a sedan, SUV or van.
Key Provisions of Arizona Legal Tint
- Front Side Windows
- Must allow more than 33% of visible light transmission (VLT).
- This means the tint cannot be so dark as to reduce VLT below 33%.
- Back Side Windows and Rear Window
- In most cases, you can use any darkness for these windows.
- If the rear window is tinted, your vehicle must have dual side mirrors.
- Reflectivity Limits
- The law restricts front and back side windows to a 35% reflective limit (±3%).
- This rule prevents excessively shiny or mirrored tint that can be hazardous to other drivers.
- Front Windshield
- Only non-reflective tint is allowed, and it must be placed above the AS-1 line.
- Tint Colors
- Amber or red tint colors are prohibited in Arizona.
These provisions help ensure a balance between driver comfort and road safety. Keep in mind that law enforcement may interpret tint laws differently, so it’s wise to adhere strictly to Arizona legal tint percentages to avoid complications.
Colored or Reflective Car Tint Shades
It is against the law to use amber or red tint colors in Arizona. Only with a valid medical exemption may someone use a special type of tint, such as a different color or darker grade. Vehicle owners do not need stickers to identify legal tinting. Since some room for interpretation exists with the state’s window tint laws, separate police officers may enforce them differently. Additionally, Arizona allows medical exemptions for special tint in some cases.
Should a police officer stop you on the road for dark tinting, they have the right to issue you a citation after using a tint meter to determine if you’ve broken the law.
Specific questions should be directed to your local law enforcement agency.
Can you have limo tint on your car in AZ?
Limo tint typically has 5% VLT, allowing only 5% of light into the vehicle. Under legal tint in AZ regulations, you cannot use limo tint on:
- Front side windows (they must have more than 33% VLT).
- Windshield (except for non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line).
However, you can use limo tint on:
- Rear side windows
- Back windshield
If an officer believes your tint is too dark to ensure safe visibility—even on rear windows—they can still issue a ticket. Always confirm you meet Arizona tint laws to avoid infractions.
Window Tint Medical Exemption
There are some exceptions to the Arizona window tinting laws that are available to drivers who suffer from medical conditions such as sun skin disorders that they must be shielded from the direct rays of the sun at all times. If you are required for medical reasons to be protected from the sun and harmful UV Ray exposure, you may receive an exemption from the window tinting requirements. The exemption is granted for any vehicle you own as well as other vehicles in which you are a regular passenger.
To apply for the window tinting exemption, complete an Application for Window Tint Medical Exemption Here.
Form #40-1511, certified by a medical provider. The application will be forwarded to the Medical Review Program.
Staying Compliant with Arizona Tint Laws
Should a police officer stop you for a potential tint violation, they might use a tint meter to check your VLT levels. If your tint falls below Arizona legal tint limits, you could receive a citation. When in doubt:
- Consult a professional: Speak with local tint specialists (like us at TINT 360 in Phoenix) to ensure your chosen tint complies with legal tint in AZ guidelines.
- Reach out to law enforcement: If you have specific questions, direct them to your local agency for clarification.
Ready to Get Your Vehicle Tinted in Arizona?
Complying with Arizona tint laws doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the benefits of a stylish, comfortable ride. At TINT 360 in Phoenix, we provide expert guidance to help you choose the optimal tint shade for your vehicle—balancing aesthetics, comfort, and legality.
Contact us today to learn more about our tinting services and how we can help you stay within legal tint in AZ guidelines. Drive confidently, knowing your tint not only looks great but also complies with Arizona legal tint regulations.
