Understanding the window tint laws in Arkansas is crucial for every automobile owner, whether you drive a car, sedan, truck, or SUV. The enforcement of these laws ensures that all tinted windows, including the front window, back window, side windows, and even the windshield, comply with the legal standards set by the state. In 2024, Arkansas window tint laws may undergo changes, and it’s important to stay informed about what the law entails, especially if you’re considering dark window tints or seeking a medical exemption. Tail lights and headlights also fall under scrutiny, and ensuring your vehicle adheres to the auto tint regulations can save you from potential legal issues. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Arkansas window tint laws, including the permissible limits, exceptions, and how to navigate the regulations to ensure your vehicle is both stylish and within legal bounds.
Car Window Tinting Laws in Arkansas
Arkansas, located in the Southern region of the United States, boasts a diverse geography ranging from the mountainous regions of the Ozark and the Ouachita Mountains to the densely forested land known as the Arkansas Timberlands. With its varied landscapes and climates, Arkansas has set specific regulations for car window tinting to ensure the safety and comfort of its residents.
Arkansas Tint Law – Legal Tint Limit For Sedan Vehicles
- 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 25% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% of light in.
Tinting Law Arkansas – Legal Tint Limit For SUVs and Vans
- 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.
Tinting Law Arkansas – Legal Tint Limit For Trucks
- 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.
Additional Information about TinTing Trucks
- Reflective Material: Reflective or metallic window tint is not allowed on any surface of the truck’s windows.
- Tint Colors: There are no restrictions on tint colors in Arkansas.
- Medical Exemptions: Certain medical conditions allow for darker window film on front side windows and rear side windows. A physician’s certification is required.
- Compliance Stickers: A label must be attached to the front glass, showing the name and phone number of the company that installed the tinting material and affirming that all tinting conforms to Arkansas state regulations.
- Penalties: Illegal window tint constitutes a Class B misdemeanor offense, with penalties that can include a fine of up to $1000 and up to three months in jail.
Window Tint Reflectivity in Arkansas
Reflective properties in window tints can assist in reducing glare and heat. Arkansas’s standards include:
- For Sedans, SUVs & Vans: No metallic or mirrored appearance is allowed on any windows.
Other Arkansas Window Tint Law Rules And Regulations
- Side Mirrors: No restrictions on side mirrors in Arkansas.
- Tint Colors: No specific colors of tint are prohibited by law in Arkansas.
- Certification: Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in Arkansas.
- Stickers: A sticker to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on the driver’s side window.
- Medical Exemptions: Arkansas allows medical exemptions for special tint.
- Penalties: Non-compliance can lead to a Class B misdemeanor.
State of Arkansas Information
- Capital: Little Rock
- Population: 3,025,891
- Area: 53,179 sq mi
Arkansas Cities
Arkansas Tint Laws: Do They Apply to Out-of-State Vehicles?
Arkansas’s window tint laws, established in 1993, are designed to ensure the safety and comfort of drivers and passengers. While these laws are specific to vehicles registered in Arkansas, out-of-state vehicles should also be aware of these regulations when traveling within the state to avoid potential legal complications.
Why Does Arkansas Have Tint Laws? An In-depth Look
The primary reason behind Arkansas’s tint laws is to ensure road safety. Given the state’s diverse geography, from the mountainous regions of the Ozark to the densely forested Arkansas Timberlands, varying light conditions necessitate specific tinting regulations to prevent accidents and ensure clear visibility.
Tint Laws and Police Cars in Arkansas: What’s the Verdict?
While the provided content does not specify tint laws for police vehicles, it’s common for law enforcement vehicles to have certain exemptions for operational reasons. However, for specifics, one should refer to local regulations or the state’s official documentation.
How Arkansas Authorities Enforce Window Tint Laws
Enforcement of tint laws in Arkansas is stringent. Authorities use the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage as a measure. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, with violations being classified as a Class B misdemeanor.
Tinted Windows in Arkansas: Legal or Not?
In Arkansas, tinted windows are legal, but with specific regulations. For instance, for sedans, front and back side windows must allow more than 25% of light in. However, the rear window must allow more than 10% of light. SUVs and vans have similar but slightly varied regulations. Additionally, no window tint can have a metallic or mirrored appearance.
Arkansas Law on Enforcement Vehicles with Tinted Windows
As mentioned, while specific exemptions for law enforcement vehicles are not detailed in the provided content, it’s common for such vehicles to have certain allowances. Consulting local regulations or the state’s official documentation is advisable for clarity.
The Legality of Tinted Headlights in Arkansas
The provided content does not specify regulations regarding tinted headlights. However, given the importance of visibility for safety, many jurisdictions, including Arkansas, might have restrictions on headlight tinting.
Arkansas’s Stance on Vehicles Exempt from Tint Laws
Arkansas does allow for medical exemptions related to window tinting. Those with specific medical conditions that require reduced light exposure can apply for these exemptions. However, the exact terms and conditions should be checked with state law.
Tips to Bypass Window Tint Laws in Arkansas
While it’s essential to always comply with state regulations, understanding the specifics of Arkansas’s tint laws can help drivers make informed decisions. However, it’s always recommended to adhere to the law rather than seeking ways to bypass it.
Comparing Arkansas’s Tint Laws with Other States
Each state in the U.S. has its own set of tint laws. When comparing Arkansas’s regulations with those of other states, one can observe the varying safety, privacy, and comfort concerns that influence these laws.
The Development and Rationale Behind Arkansas’s Tint Laws Arkansas’s tint laws have evolved since their inception in 1993. The state’s unique geography and climatic conditions, combined with advances in vehicle technology and tinting materials, have influenced the development and refinement of these regulations.
The Importance of Window Tint Laws in Arkansas Given Arkansas’s diverse landscapes and climatic conditions, window tint laws play a crucial role in ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of its residents. These laws strike a balance between providing protection from the sun’s harmful rays and ensuring clear visibility for safe driving.
Questions About Window Tinting in Arkansas
Is 2.5 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, a 2.5% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) for window tint is not permitted. The state mandates that front side windows must have a VLT of at least 25%.
Is 5 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
A 5% tint is too dark according to Arkansas law. The minimum VLT allowed for front side windows is 25%, making 5% tint illegal for those windows.
Is 10 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
No, you can’t have a 10% tint on your front side windows in Arkansas. The law requires these windows to have a VLT of 25% or higher.
Is 15 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
15% tint is not in compliance with Arkansas state law for front side windows, which require a minimum VLT of 25%.
Is 20 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
A 20% tint is also not allowed for front side windows in Arkansas. The state’s minimum VLT requirement for these windows is 25%.
Is 25 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
Yes, a 25% tint is legal for front side windows in Arkansas, as it meets the state’s minimum VLT requirement.
Is 30 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
A 30% tint is legal for front side windows in Arkansas, as it exceeds the state’s minimum VLT requirement of 25%.
Is 35 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
Yes, a 35% tint is permissible in Arkansas for front side windows, as it is above the state’s 25% VLT requirement.
Is 40 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
A 40% tint is legal for front side windows in Arkansas, as it surpasses the state’s minimum VLT requirement.
Is 50 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
Yes, a 50% tint is allowed for front side windows in Arkansas, as it is well above the state’s 25% VLT minimum.
Is 70 Percent Tint Legal in Arkansas?
A 70% tint is legal for front side windows in Arkansas, as it far exceeds the state’s 25% VLT requirement.
Note: Always consult with your local Arkansas law enforcement agency to ensure your vehicle complies with Arkansas’s window tinting law.
What is the legal window tint in Arkansas?
For sedans, front side windows should allow over 25% of light, while back side windows should allow over 25% and rear windows over 10%.
Is window tinting permitted in Arkansas?
Yes, but it’s essential to adhere to the state’s specific guidelines.
Are there any prohibited tint colors in Arkansas?
Arkansas does not explicitly ban any tint colors.
Do I need a certification for my window tint in Arkansas?
No, manufacturers aren’t mandated to certify their products in Arkansas.
How can I ensure my tint aligns with Arkansas’s regulations?
It’s recommended to consult with a professional or review the state’s official resources.
Are there different tint rules for SUVs in Arkansas?
The regulations are consistent for both sedans and SUVs/vans.
What’s the reflectivity limit for window tints in Arkansas?
Windows shouldn’t have a metallic or mirrored appearance.
Do I need a sticker for my tinted windows in Arkansas?
Yes, a sticker identifying legal tinting is required on the driver’s side window.
Can I use varying tint shades on my vehicle in Arkansas?
Yes, but each window must comply with the state’s regulations.
What if I sell my car with tinted windows in Arkansas?
If the tint adheres to Arkansas’s laws, there’s no issue. Otherwise, the buyer might need to make adjustments.
Is removing window tint a complex process?
It’s best to seek professional assistance to ensure no damage.
Can I get a medical exemption for darker tints in Arkansas?
Yes, but Arkansas requires specific documentation for such exemptions.
Sources and References:
Arkansas Section 27-37-306: Light transmission levels for the tinting of motor vehicle windows
Arkansas Department of Transportation