Arkansas Tint Laws: What You Need to Know!

Driving through the picturesque roads of Arkansas, many car enthusiasts and daily commuters alike find solace in having tinted windows. Not only do they offer enhanced privacy, but they also provide protection from harmful UV rays and reduce glare. However, there are specific Arkansas tint laws every resident and visitor should be aware of.

Why Tint Your Windows?

Before diving into the specifics of the Arkansas tint laws, let’s understand why people opt for window tinting:

Privacy

Privacy is one of the primary reasons people opt for window tinting. Tinted windows provide a degree of seclusion inside your vehicle, keeping prying eyes at bay. This increased privacy can be particularly valuable in various scenarios, such as:

• Preventing theft by concealing valuables left inside the car;
• Shielding passengers from unwanted attention, especially in crowded areas or at night;
• Enhancing personal comfort and reducing distractions for those inside the vehicle.

UV Protection

UV protection is a crucial health benefit of window tinting. Quality window tints are designed to block a significant portion of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Here’s how window tints contribute to your well-being:

• Reduction of UV Exposure: Window tints can block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, which are known to cause skin damage, premature aging, and even skin cancer;
• Preservation of Interior: By reducing UV exposure, tints help protect your vehicle’s interior from fading, cracking, and deterioration. This is especially important for the dashboard, seats, and other components.

Reduced Glare

Reduced glare is a safety benefit that makes driving more comfortable and safer. Glare from the sun or headlights of oncoming vehicles can impair your vision and lead to accidents. Tinted windows address this issue effectively:

• Glare Reduction: Tinted windows can significantly cut down on dangerous glare, making it easier to see the road, traffic signals, and other vehicles;
• Enhanced Visibility: Reduced glare translates to improved visibility, especially during early morning or late afternoon drives and in adverse weather conditions.

Temperature Control

Temperature control is a practical advantage of window tinting, particularly in regions with hot climates like Arkansas. Tinted windows can help maintain a comfortable and cool interior environment by:

• Heat Rejection: Tinted windows block solar heat, preventing the interior from heating up excessively in the sun;
• Energy Efficiency: By reducing the need for air conditioning, tinted windows can improve fuel efficiency and save on energy costs;
• Comfortable Rides: Tinted windows ensure that your vehicle remains a pleasant and comfortable place to be, even on scorching summer days.

Aesthetic Appeal

Lastly, aesthetic appeal is an aspect that should not be overlooked. Many vehicle owners believe that tinted windows enhance a vehicle’s appearance in several ways:

• Sleek Appearance: Tinted windows can give your vehicle a sleek and stylish look;
• Uniform Appearance: Tinted windows can create a uniform and polished appearance across all windows;
• Customization: You can choose from various tint shades and styles to match your personal preferences and the overall aesthetics of your vehicle.

Arkansas Tint Laws: The Basics

Window Type	Tint Darkness	Reflectivity
Front Windshield	Arkansas law allows the use of non-reflective tint on the front windshield, but with specific restrictions. This tinting is only permitted on the top 5 inches of the windshield or above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line. The AS-1 line is a reference point marked on the windshield, typically located near the top, indicating the maximum height up to which tinting is allowed. Any tint applied below this line must be non-reflective.	The front windshield tint must not be reflective. This is a critical safety measure as reflective tints can create glare, impairing the driver’s vision, especially during nighttime driving.
Front Side Windows	Arkansas law requires that tint on the front side windows allow more than 25% of light to pass through. In simpler terms, the tint cannot be overly dark and must maintain a relatively high level of visibility. This ensures that law enforcement officers can easily identify individuals inside the vehicle.	Reflectivity for front side windows is restricted to no more than 25%. This limitation prevents the windows from appearing excessively reflective, which can be distracting for other drivers and law enforcement officers.
Back Side Windows and Rear Window	For back side windows and the rear window, Arkansas allows darker tint compared to the front side windows. The tint must permit more than 10% of light to pass through. This provides some privacy to the vehicle’s occupants while still maintaining reasonable visibility from the outside.	Reflectivity for back side windows and the rear window is also limited to no more than 10%. This restriction helps prevent excessive glare, ensuring the safety of both the vehicle occupants and other road users.

While Arkansas tint laws do not explicitly specify medical exemptions, individuals with specific medical conditions that require increased protection from sunlight or glare may request an exemption from the state’s Department of Health. These requests are assessed on an individual basis, and if approved, individuals may be granted permission to use window tint that exceeds the standard limits.

Other Regulations to Note

Side Mirrors

If the back windows of your vehicle are tinted, Arkansas law requires that you have dual side mirrors. This is to ensure that you maintain adequate visibility, especially when rearward visibility may be restricted due to darker tint on rear windows.

Restricted Colors

Arkansas tint laws prohibit the use of red and amber tints on vehicle windows. These colors are reserved for emergency and safety vehicles, and their use on civilian vehicles is strictly prohibited.

Stickers

To identify legal tinting, a sticker is required between the glass and film on each tinted window. This sticker is often provided by the tint installer and serves as a visible indicator that your window tint complies with Arkansas regulations. It helps law enforcement officers quickly determine if your tint is within legal limits.

Manufacturers

Tint film manufacturers are required to certify the film they sell in the state of Arkansas. As a vehicle owner, it is essential to ensure that your chosen tint provider uses approved and certified window tinting films. This helps you avoid potential legal issues and ensures compliance with state regulations.

Medical Exemptions

Arkansas law provides certain exemptions for medical reasons. If you have a medical condition that requires special window tinting for UV protection or other health-related concerns, it’s crucial to consult with the Department of Revenue for specifics on obtaining a medical exemption.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with Arkansas window tint laws can result in various consequences, including fines and the possibility of having to remove or replace non-compliant window tint. Additionally, vehicles with excessively dark tint may not pass inspections, leading to registration issues.

The Science Behind Window Tinting

From material composition to the different types of tints available, there’s a lot to explore. In this educational guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of window tinting, including the material composition, infrared rejection, UV protection, and the various types of tints available.

Material Composition

• Modern Window Tint Materials: The primary material used in modern window tints is polyester. Polyester is chosen for its remarkable combination of qualities such as clarity, strength, and its ability to bind with other materials. These characteristics make it an ideal choice for creating window films that can effectively filter or block various forms of radiation;
• Filtering Capabilities: Polyester-based tints can be engineered to filter specific types of light, including ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. The ability to tailor the material’s composition is crucial for achieving different performance characteristics in window tints.

Infrared Rejection

• Understanding Infrared (IR) Light: Infrared light is one of the components of sunlight and is primarily responsible for the sensation of heat when exposed to direct sunlight. It falls within the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths longer than those of visible light;
• Infrared Rejection in Window Films: Advanced window films leverage their material composition to reject a significant portion of infrared light. Some high-quality tints can reject up to 97% of IR radiation. This capability helps in reducing heat transmission through windows, making the interior of your vehicle or building more comfortable.

UV Protection

• The Dangers of UV Radiation: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is known to have harmful effects on human health and can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, UV rays can lead to the fading and deterioration of interior furnishings and upholstery in cars and buildings;
• UV Protection in Window Tints: Quality window tints offer an effective solution by blocking up to 99% of harmful UV rays. This protection not only safeguards occupants from potential health risks but also helps in preserving the aesthetics and longevity of interior surfaces.

Privacy and Safety

• Window Tints for Privacy: Window tints are an effective solution for those seeking additional privacy, whether it’s for a car, home, or office. A darker shade of window tint can obscure the view from the outside, making it difficult for outsiders to peer into the interior. This can be particularly beneficial for those who leave valuable items inside their vehicles or for homes and offices located in densely populated areas;
• Safety and Security Benefits: Beyond just privacy, window tints can also offer a layer of safety and security. In the event of an accident or impact, the adhesive quality of window films can hold shattered glass together, preventing it from becoming airborne and causing further injury. Some specialized security films are even designed to resist forced entry, providing an added layer of protection against break-ins;
• Choosing the Right Darkness Level: It’s crucial to find a balance between privacy and safety. While darker tints may offer greater privacy, they can also reduce nighttime visibility for drivers. Before selecting a tint level, it’s recommended to consult local regulations as there might be restrictions on how dark window tints can be, especially for vehicles.

Types of Window Tints

Window tints come in various types, each with its own set of characteristics and advantages. Here’s a brief overview of the three primary types:

Type of Tint	Dyed Tints	Metalized Tints	Ceramic Tints
Appearance	Known for deep, dark shades. Enhances aesthetics and privacy.	Shiny or reflective appearance, appealing to some.	Clear and non-reflective appearance.
Functionality	Primarily designed for glare reduction and UV protection. May not be as effective at heat rejection.	Contain metallic particles that reflect heat effectively. May interfere with electronic signals.	Superior UV and IR rejection without significant loss of visibility. Excellent heat rejection, UV protection, and glare reduction. Known for durability.

Choosing the Right Tint Installer

Knowing about Arkansas tint laws is only half the battle. Getting your window tinted by a professional ensures you not only adhere to the law but also get the best quality for your money. Here are some pointers:

Experience Matters

The level of experience an installer possesses is arguably the most critical factor in your decision-making process. Experienced professionals have a deep understanding of the nuances of Arkansas tint laws and possess the skills necessary for precise and compliant installations. Here’s what you need to know:

• Years in the Industry: Inquire about the installer’s years of experience in the field. The more experienced, the better;
• Knowledge of Arkansas Tint Laws: Ensure that the installer is well-versed in Arkansas tint laws and can guide you effectively to adhere to legal requirements;
• Skill and Expertise: Assess their ability to handle various tinting challenges, such as curved windows or intricate vehicle designs.

Customer Reviews and Recommendations

To gain insight into an installer’s reputation, work quality, and professionalism, it’s advisable to scour the internet for online reviews and ratings on various websites and forums.

• Personal Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family members, or acquaintances who have had their windows tinted. Personal referrals often provide firsthand experiences that can be invaluable;
• Positive Feedback: While reading reviews, look for installers with a consistent track record of positive feedback from satisfied customers. A high number of positive reviews is a good indicator of quality service.

Warranty Considerations

A reputable tint installer who uses high-quality window films should offer a warranty for their work. Understanding the terms of the warranty is essential to protect your investment. Consider the following:

• Warranty Availability: Ask the installer if they provide a warranty for their tinting services. A warranty demonstrates their confidence in their work;
• Warranty Coverage: Inquire about what is covered by the warranty and for how long. Typical warranties may cover issues like bubbling, peeling, or discoloration of the film;
• Film Quality: Ensure that the installer uses premium, durable window tint films. High-quality films are less likely to develop problems covered by the warranty.

Inspect Their Work

Whenever possible, take the opportunity to inspect some of the installer’s recent work in person or through photographs. This will give you a clear idea of their work quality and help you identify any potential issues:

• Visual Inspection: During your inspection, pay attention to the following aspects, which indicate a well-executed tinting job:

Aspect	Description
Uniform Tint Application	The tint should be evenly applied without visible streaks or patches.
Absence of Air Bubbles and Wrinkles	A professionally tinted window should be free of air bubbles, wrinkles, or creases.
Clean and Precise Edges	The edges of the tint should be clean and well-aligned with the window’s frame.

• Previous Clients’ Cars: Ask the installer for examples of cars they’ve tinted in the past. Viewing these vehicles will allow you to gauge the quality of their work and see how it holds up over time.

The Global Perspective: How Arkansas Compares

It’s intriguing to see how Arkansas tint laws stack up against other states and countries. Here’s a brief comparison:

United States

Tint laws in the United States exhibit remarkable diversity from one state to another, highlighting the federalist nature of the country’s legal system. Arkansas, like many states, has set its own unique standards. In Arkansas, window tints are governed by the following regulations:

• Front Side Windows: Arkansas allows a VLT of 25% on front side windows. This means that only 25% of visible light can pass through the tinted windows.

Let’s compare Arkansas to a few other U.S. states with varying window tint regulations:

State	Front Side Window VLT Limit
Arkansas	25%
California	70%
Texas	25%
New York	70%
Florida	28%

As evident in the table, Arkansas, along with Texas, has a relatively low VLT requirement of 25% for front side windows. In contrast, states like California and New York have much higher VLT requirements, with a limit of 70% for front side windows.

Europe

When we turn our attention to Europe, a different set of standards comes into play. The European Union (EU) directive has played a pivotal role in harmonizing various aspects of vehicle regulations, including window tinting, across its member countries. Here’s a glimpse of how European countries compare to Arkansas:

Country	Front Side Window VLT Limit
United Kingdom	70%
Germany	70%
France	70%
Italy	70%
Spain	70%

Across Europe, including countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain, a common theme emerges – a 70% VLT requirement for front side windows. This high VLT limit is largely consistent throughout the continent, signaling a unified approach to window tinting regulations that differs significantly from Arkansas’ standards.

Asia

Turning our focus to Asia, we find that countries in this region also have their own unique guidelines for window tinting, often tied to vehicle inspections and local considerations. One of the prominent examples is Japan:

• Japan: Japan maintains a rigorous vehicle inspection system that includes stringent regulations for window tinting. The exact VLT limit can vary based on the region within Japan and the type of vehicle. Typically, passenger cars have a VLT limit of around 70% on front side windows.

In Japan, compliance with tint regulations is crucial for passing vehicle inspections. Variations in these regulations across regions and vehicle types make it essential for vehicle owners to stay informed about the specific guidelines in their area.

Conclusion

Arkansas tint laws are in place to ensure the safety of all road users. While tinted windows offer several benefits, it’s crucial to understand and comply with these regulations. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, keeping abreast of the Arkansas tint laws can save you both time and money.

Remember, when in doubt about your tint’s compliance with Arkansas regulations, consult with a professional or the local authorities.

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