Arkansas Tint Laws
The Arkansas tint laws detail specific automotive tint laws for various cars and SUVs. Car window tinting laws in Arkansas were initially established in 1993. We aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these regulations, including specifics about permissible tint darkness, reflection criteria, and additional rules that apply to window tinting in the state.
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 Arkansas:
The measurement of visible light that’s allowed through your vehicle’s windows is denoted as VLT (Visible Light Transmission). Arkansas’s laws meticulously define VLT percentages for sedan cars and SUVs or vans.
Arkansas Car 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 25% of light to pass through.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light to pass through.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% of light to pass through.
Tint Laws For SUVs and Vans in Arkansas:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side windows: Must allow more than 25% of light to pass through.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 10% of light to pass through.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 10% of light to pass through.
| 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 25% of light to pass through | Must allow more than 25% of light to pass through |
| Back Side windows | Must allow more than 25% of light to pass through | Must allow more than 10% of light to pass through |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 10% of light to pass through | Must allow more than 10% of light to pass through |
Window Tint Reflection in Arkansas:
Window tinting can reflect incoming light, reducing glare and heat. Arkansas’s tint law specifies permissible levels of window reflection when using tint, making it crucial to adhere to these guidelines.
Reflectivity Tint Laws For Both Sedans and SUVs/Vans:
- Front Side windows: Must not have a metallic or mirrored appearance.
- Back Side windows: Must not have a metallic or mirrored appearance.
Other Arkansas Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
In addition to tint darkness and reflection criteria, Arkansas has several other important regulations related to window tinting:
Side Mirrors
There are no specific restrictions on side mirrors.
Restricted Colors
The law does not explicitly prohibit any specific tint colors.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in Arkansas.
Stickers
A sticker is required to identify legal tinting, and it must be placed between the film and glass on the driver’s side window.
Medical Exceptions
Arkansas allows medical exemptions for special tint, though specific details are available in state law.
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 states such as Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Penalties
Violations of Arkansas’s tinting laws are considered Class B misdemeanors.
It’s important to note that interpretations of Arkansas’s tinting laws and regulations may vary depending on your 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 Arkansas was last updated in 2023. We take pride in being a trusted industry leader, dedicated to providing accurate and current information about window tint laws. If you discover any inaccuracies or outdated data, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your trust in our resources is of utmost importance, and we are committed to providing you with the most reliable information available.