Alabama Window Tinting Laws Of 2024 [Is Your Car Breaking the Rules?]
Alabama Window Tinting Laws regulate the darkness, reflectivity, and color of window tints on vehicles across the state. These laws are designed to ensure the safety of drivers, pedestrians, and law enforcement by controlling the visibility into and out of vehicles.
Different from some other states, Alabama has specific regulations on the tint percentage allowed on all vehicle windows, including windshields, front-side windows, and back-side windows.
Before you make any changes to your car, you should familiarize yourself with the specific requirements such as light transmittance percentages and allowed window tint colors. Violation of these laws may result in fines and, in more severe cases, even vehicle impoundment.
Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone considering installing window tints on their vehicles in Alabama, to avoid fines and ensure compliance with the law.
Understanding Alabama Window Tinting Laws
To understand Alabama’s window tinting laws, it’s always a good idea to check the most recent laws and regulations, as these could have changed since my last update.
Tint Darkness
This refers to the amount of light that is allowed through your vehicle’s window film. The amount of light allowed through your window is called Visible Light Transmission (VLT). In Alabama:
- For sedans: The windshield may have a non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches. The front side windows must allow over 32% of light in. The back side windows and rear windows must also allow over 32% of light in.
- For SUVs and vans: The windshield may have a non-reflective tint on the top 6 inches. The front side windows must allow over 32% of light in. The back side windows and rear windows can allow any tint darkness.
Tint Reflection
Some tints are designed to reflect incoming light and thus reduce glare and heat. Alabama law also places restrictions on these:
- For sedans: The front side windows and back side windows must not be more than 20% reflective.
- For SUVs and vans: The front side windows and back side windows must not be more than 20% reflective.
Other Tinting Rules
There are several other important rules about window tinting in Alabama:
- Side Mirrors: There are no specific restrictions on tinting for side mirrors in Alabama
- Restricted Colors: There are no colors that are explicitly prohibited for window tinting in Alabama.
- Certificates: The tinting film used must meet certain standards and specifications set by the state.
- Stickers: A sticker to identify legal tinting is required in Alabama. This sticker is usually placed between the tinting film and the glass
- Medical Exceptions: Alabama law does provide for certain medical exceptions to its window tinting regulations.
Remember that window tinting laws vary from state to state, and local counties or cities may have their own additional regulations. Always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles or law enforcement to confirm the current laws and regulations before you get your windows tinted. Violations of these laws can result in fines and penalties.
Tickets And Fines For Violating Window Tinting Laws
Alabama takes violations of its window tinting laws seriously. If you’re caught with window tint that doesn’t comply with the state’s laws, you could face significant fines and even jail time. As per Act. 96-534, effective since August 15, 1996, the penalties for violating window tinting laws in Alabama are as follows:
First Conviction
For your first offense, you could be fined $100, be sentenced to up to 10 days in jail, or both. While the jail sentence may seem severe for a window tinting violation, it’s worth noting that this is rarely enforced for a first offense. However, the possibility of a jail sentence underscores the seriousness with which Alabama takes these violations.
Second Offense
If you’re caught a second time with illegal window tint, the penalties increase. You could be fined $200 and be sentenced to up to an entire month in prison. The enforcement of these penalties may vary depending on the circumstances and the court’s discretion.
Third and Subsequent Offenses
For a third offense and any subsequent offenses, the fines and potential jail time increase even more. You could be fined $300 and be imprisoned for up to three months. Sometimes, you will be given the option of paying a higher fine of $500
These penalties highlight the importance of complying with Alabama’s window tinting laws. Not only can violations result in significant fines and potential jail time, but they can also lead to a criminal record. Always make sure your window tinting complies with Alabama’s laws and regulations to avoid these serious penalties.
Medical Exemptions for Window Tint Rules in Alabama
If you have a medical condition that necessitates darker window tints than what is usually permitted, such as certain skin or eye conditions, you will likely need to go through the following process to get a medical exemption for window tint rules:
Consult with a licensed physician: First, you must consult with a licensed physician who can confirm that you have a medical condition requiring a window tint beyond the standard legal limit. Conditions that might qualify could include but are not limited to, lupus, photosensitivity, melanoma, and other skin or eye conditions that could be adversely affected by sunlight or bright artificial light.
Get a signed and certified document: Once your doctor has confirmed that you require this accommodation, they will need to provide you with a signed and certified document stating that you have a medical condition requiring window tint beyond the legal limit. This document should include specific information about your medical condition and the medical necessity for the window tint.
Submit the document to the relevant authority: Next, you must submit the signed and certified document to the relevant authority in your state. In Alabama, this might be the Alabama Department of Public Safety or another relevant agency.
FAQs Regarding Alabama’s Car Window Tint Law
What Does VLT Mean Concerning Automobiles?
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission; it refers to the visible amount of sunlight allowed through a vehicle’s windows.
Can I Get Exceptions To The Maximum Limits For Cosmetic Purposes Only?
No! Anybody seeking exemptions must provide valid medical requirements indicating possible health issues following other routes besides exceptions guidelines laid forward will face penalties instantly during traffic stops hence best to follow statutes without shortcuts!
Do Alabama Laws Apply To All Vehicles Equally?
Yes, Alabama window tinting laws apply to all vehicles, whether they’re commercial or privately owned. However, exceptions may exist for certain emergency or government vehicles due to their sensitive operational requirements.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Alabama window tinting laws are implemented to ensure safety on the roads while accommodating drivers’ preferences for privacy and protection against sunlight. The back side and rear windows may have any tint darkness.
Violations of these rules can result in penalties, so it’s crucial for vehicle owners in Alabama to understand and comply with these regulations. Always remember that these laws are subject to change and it’s advisable to check with the Department of Public Safety for the most current regulations.
