Alaska Tint Laws – Alask Window Tint Laws
The Alaska tint laws detail specific automotive tint laws for various cars and SUVs. The Alaska tint laws detail specific automotive tint laws for various cars and SUVs. In Alaska, for sedans, non-reflective tint is permitted on the top 5 inches of the windshield, while front side windows must allow more than 70% of light, and back side windows and the rear window must allow more than 40% of light. SUVs and vans in Alaska have the same rules for tinting windshields and windows as sedans.
Alaska’s regulations governing car window tinting came into effect in 1994. To equip you with a thorough understanding of the intricacies of window tinting in the state, we’ve compiled comprehensive information on allowable tint darkness, reflection criteria, and various other crucial aspects of these regulations.
Disclaimer
Even though I aced Commercial Law at school and strive to provide accurate and informative content, it’s important to note that I am not a legal expert. The information presented in this blog is based on my interpretation of the subject matter, and laws can vary by location and change over time. It is strongly recommended that readers verify all sources of information and consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities before making any decisions related to tint laws.
Understanding the Terminology Regarding Tint Laws
The most important part of the legislation is understanding what VLT is and how law enforcement services check or test the percentage.
What is VLT
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, is a measure of the amount of visible light that can pass through a window tint or film. It is commonly used to determine the darkness or opacity of window tints, and it’s an important factor in window tinting laws and regulations.
VLT is typically expressed as a percentage. For example, a window tint with a VLT of 20% allows only 20% of visible light to pass through, making it relatively dark and less transparent. Conversely, a window tint with a VLT of 70% allows 70% of visible light to pass through and is much lighter and more transparent.
How do Law Enforcement services test the VLT percentage?
Window tinting laws vary by jurisdiction, and they often specify the maximum allowable VLT for different types of windows on a vehicle, such as the front windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window. These laws are designed to ensure that drivers have adequate visibility and that law enforcement can see into vehicles for safety and identification purposes. The manner that they go about testing the VLT is by using a VLT gauge/meter.
Here is a YouTube Short from @TrafficServices and @TorontoPolice showcasing the device and how it works. Even though it is in Canada, it still is helpful to understand how the tint darkness is measured.
Window Tint Darkness in Alaska:
The degree of visible light permitted through your vehicle’s windows is referred to as VLT (Visible Light Transmission). Alaska’s laws outline very specific VLT percentages for sedan cars and SUVs or vans.
Alaska Tint Laws for Sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
Tint Laws For SUVs and Vans in Alaska:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 70% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 40% of light in.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches | Non-reflective tint allowed on the top 5 inches |
| Front Side windows | Must allow more than 70% of light in | Must allow more than 70% of light in |
| Back Side windows | Must allow more than 40% of light in | Must allow more than 40% of light in |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 40% of light in | Must allow more than 40% of light in |
An allowance of up to 3% variance in window tint is permitted, providing some flexibility for adjustments.
Window Tint Reflection in Alaska:
Window tinting can serve to reflect incoming light, reducing glare and heat within the vehicle. Alaska law stipulates particular requirements for window reflection when utilizing tint, making it imperative to adhere to these guidelines.
Reflectivity Tint Laws For both sedans and SUVs/Vans:
- Front Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
- Back Side windows: No metallic or mirrored appearance.
Other Alaska Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In addition to the tint darkness and reflection criteria, Alaska boasts several other notable laws, rules, and regulations associated with window tinting:
Side Mirrors
There are no specific restrictions on side mirrors in the state of Alaska.
Restricted Colors
Permitted window tint colors include green, gray, bronze, and neutral smoke.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are not obliged to certify the films they sell within the state.
Stickers
There is no requirement by law for a sticker to identify legal tinting.
Medical Exceptions
Alaska allows medical exemptions for drivers or passengers who frequently travel in the vehicle. These exemptions must be renewed annually by an Alaska-licensed physician.
Regulations for Out-of-State Drivers
The same regulations apply to out-of-state drivers as they do for drivers living in the State.
If you are from any other state or country such as Canada, the same rules apply to you.
Penalties
Violations of window tint laws in Alaska can result in penalties of up to $300 and an additional $10 surcharge if the issue is not rectified within the specified time.
It’s essential to bear in mind that interpretations of Alaska’s tinting laws and regulations may vary by county or place of residence. To ensure full compliance, we strongly recommend verifying this information with your local DMV or law enforcement authorities.
Our information regarding window tint laws in Alaska was most recently updated in 2023. As a trusted industry leader in providing accurate and up-to-date window tint laws information, we take pride in offering you this resource. If you come across any inaccuracies or outdated data, please do not hesitate to contact us so we can promptly rectify it. Your trust in our resources is of utmost importance.