Cars with tinted windows look fancy for sure, but if you live in Alabama, that won’t be a good idea! Thanks to the Alabama tint laws, you cannot use tint film on the windows whenever you want, you need to know the tint laws in Alabama.
But what do these laws say? Well, that’s what we’ll discuss here today.
It was 1996 when the car tinting law in Alabama was proposed. It talks about how dark or reflective your car window tint should be, depending on the state tint laws.
We’ve provided all the information you need in this regard over here. Also, there is some extra information on rules and regulations, which you should obey if you don’t want to get fined.
Table of Contents
Alabama Tint Laws 2023 – Everything You Need to Know
Before you get to know the Alabama window tint laws, you need to learn about the VLT. So before we get into the details, let’s talk about it first!
What does VLT mean according to Alabama state law?
The VLT or Visible Light Transmission indicated the percentage of detectable light that passes through your car’s window.
When the VLT is lower, the window tint will get darker. And higher VLT means that more light will penetrate the windows without any trouble.
For instance, if you install 75% tint on the glasses, 75% visible light will go through them. And when the tint is 5%, the insides of your car will be way darker!
By the way, We have in-depth content about VLT and window tint percentage for your reference. We recommend checking it out If you want to know the different levels of window tint.
So, What is The Legal Tint in Alabama- AL Window Tint Law 2023
The Alabama window tint law is different for each type of vehicle. For passenger and multipurpose vehicles, you have to follow dissimilar rules.
So here are the Alabama window tint laws for multipurpose and passenger automobiles.
Legal Tint in Alabama- Window Tint Darkness for Passenger Vehicles
- Windshield
If you are using a non-reflective tint film, you can install it on the top six-inch of your vehicle’s windows. This will help reduce the amount of sunlight that comes into your car, which can help reduce your car’s gas mileage. The film is also legal in Alabama, so you don’t have to worry about getting pulled over. - Front side windows
For front-side windows, 32% tint film is allowed according to the Alabama window tint laws. If you’re looking to install a legal tint on your passenger car windows in Alabama, your best bet is to go with a darkness level of 32. This level of tint will avoid getting you in any trouble with the law, and it will provide you with the privacy and security you need while driving. - Backside windows
When it comes to backside window tinting, you can get away with 32% darkness without any legal issues. This is because the US government only regulates window tinting on the front side of a vehicle. So long as your backside windows are less than half covered in tint, you’re good to go. - Rear window
On the rear window, the legal tint in Alabama is 32% visible light.
Legal Tint in Alabama- Window Tint Darkness for Multi-purpose Vehicles
- Windshield
When you are thinking about non-reflective tints for the windshield of any multipurpose vehicle, you can use tinted films on the top six inches. This is because those six inches are below the legal limit for window tint in Alabama. This means that if you want to install a non-reflective window tint on your windshield, you can do so without having to worry about getting pulled over or violating any regulations. - Front side windows
The law allows drivers to use a maximum of 32 percent legal tint on the front side windows of their multi-purpose vehicles. This limit includes both the window film and any tinting that is applied to the glass itself. - Backside windows
No window tint darkness limit, So u can use any window tint film darkness. - Rear window
The same goes here No window tint film darkness limit, So u can use any window tint darkness.
Window Tint Reflection in Alabama
Using tint on your automobile’s window can reflect the incoming light and reduce the heat. Moreover, the tinted windows also prevent glare.
Well, the window tint Alabama law authorizes some specific window reflection while using a tint. So if you ever think about coloring the glasses, pay attention to this as well.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front side windows
In the front side windows, you don’t have permission to use more than 20% reflective tint. - Backside window
The same goes here you don’t have permission to use more than 20% reflective tint.
Tint reflection for SUV and Vans
- Front Side windows
In the front side windows, you don’t have permission to use more than 20% reflective tint. - Backside window
The same goes here you don’t have permission to use more than 20% reflective tint.
Other Alabama Window Tint Laws and Regulations You Need to Know
When it comes to window tinting of your vehicle, Alabama is pretty serious about that. You will have plenty of rules and regulations to abide by.
Besides maintaining a specific percentage of the glare on each window, here are some other restrictions you need to follow, even if you want to do a subtle darkening.
Side mirrors in Alabama
For the side mirrors, Alabama doesn’t have any specific tinting rule whatsoever.
Restricted Colors
When someone hears about the tint laws in Alabama, the next question they ask is which color to use on the glass. Well, the law of Alabama all colors of window tint are permitted.
Certificates
Manufacturers of film need to certify the film they sell in the state. Ask your dealer if they are using certified film.
Stickers
The sticker or label of compliance to identify legal tinting is required between the film & glass on every tinted window.
Penalties
For the first conviction maximum of $100 and/or 10 days in prison, max of $200 and/or 30 days in jail for the Second conviction & third and subsequent offense within a year $500 and/or up to 3 months in prison by the law enforcement officer.
Alabama Window Tint Law Medical Exemption
In Alabama, the law states that any driver with a medical exemption can tint their car windows to any degree. To get this exemption, you must have a letter from your doctor that specifically states that you need to tint your windows for medical reasons. The letter must include your name, date of birth, and the specific reason why you need to tint your windows. You must also have this letter with you whenever you’re driving, and present it to a police officer if they ask for it.
How to Get Medical Exemption for Window Tint in Alabama?
The process for getting this Alabama Window Tint Exemption is pretty simple. You just need to go to your doctor and get a note from them stating that you need the dark window tint for medical reasons. Once you have the note, take it to your local motor vehicle office and they will issue you an exemption sticker to put on your car.
Alabama Medical Exemption Requirements
| State | Alabama |
| Statute, regulation, or other sources | Ala. Code 1975 § 32-5C2 Ala. Admin. Code r. 760- X-1-.17 |
| To whom the exemption may apply | the vehicle owner or habitual passenger |
| Reason(s) | a person must be shielded from the direct rays of the sun Department of Public Safety to determine |
| Which windows | N/A |
| Limits on the amount of tint | Department of Public Safety to determine conditions and limitations |
| Certification from medical provider (which type[s] of provider) | written statement of need from a physician licensed to practice in the state |
| Application to state department | required |
| Document required in vehicle | N/A |
Alabama Window Tint Exemption Form
The process for getting this Alabama Window Tint Exemption Form is pretty simple. You just need to go to your doctor and get a note from them stating that you need the dark window tint for medical reasons. Once you have the note, take it to your local motor vehicle office and they will issue you an exemption sticker to put on your car. Click here to get the Alabama Window tint exemption form.
Reference of Medical Exemption for Alabama window tint laws:
Title 32, Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Chapter 5C:
Medical Waivers (32-5C-4): You may apply for an exemption from this chapter for certain medical conditions. Certification must be made by your physician. The exemption may be issued with conditions and limitations prescribed by the Department of Public Safety.
Compliance Stickers (32-5C-6): All new tinting and vehicles with existing tinting, that meets the standards, must display a visible sticker/label of compliance. These stickers/labels must be affixed by a tinting dealer. No person shall install any material on the windshield or windows in violation of 32-5C-2.
Cost of a Car Window Tinting in Alabama
The cost may vary from film to film when it is to tint. For instance, if you want to use a regular classic film for your Sedan, it will cost you up to 150-200 bucks. And when you want something exclusive like ceramic tints, you will need to spend $400 or more!
However, if you don’t have the budget to do the tinting professionally, you can get a DIY tint kit. It will cost you around a hundred bucks, which is a relief!
To know more detail about car tint cost click here.
Alabama, AL Tint Laws FAQ
Is 5 tint legal in Alabama?
In general, 5% tint is illegal in Alabama. but you can use 5% tint for your Multi-purpose vehicle’s back & rear windows. However, if you want to get a dark window tint rating than that, you will need to take a permit from the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Is 20 Tint Legal in Alabama?
In general, 20% tint is illegal in Alabama. but you can use 20% tint for your Multi-purpose vehicle’s back & rear windows. However, if you want to get a dark window tint rating than that, you will need to take a permit from the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Is 35% Tint Legal in Alabama?
Window tinting in Alabama is legal as long as the darkness bar is no higher than 32. However, you are allowed to use any window tint darkness in the back and rear window of a multipurpose vehicle. However, if you want to get a dark window tint rating than that, you will need to take a permit from the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Is 50% Tint Legal in Alabama?
Window tinting in Alabama is legal as long as the darkness bar is no higher than 32. However, you are allowed to use any window tint darkness in the back and rear window of a multipurpose vehicle. However, if you want to get a darker tint rating than that, you will need to take a permit from the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Is 70% Tints Legal in Alabama?
Alabama has some of the most lenient tint laws in the United States. You can legally drive with a window tint of 32 so 70% tint is illegal. However, if you want to get a darker tint rating than that, you will need to take a permit from the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
What is Legal Window Tint in Alabama?
In Alabama, the window tinting law states that any window covering that allows more than 32% light through is considered illegal. Tinting is legal in Alabama for windshields only if it meets certain requirements. You can tint the top six inches of your windshield, but you cannot use darker shades that block more than 32 percent of light.
What is the Darkest Legal Tint in Alabama?
According to the Alabama Vehicle Code, the darkest legal tint is 32. This means that any window that is covered in this type of tint will be considered illegal in the state of Alabama. The law specifies that any window that is darker than 32 percent cannot be used while driving. This means that even though you may have a window that is coated in a darker-than-average tint, it will still be illegal to use if it falls below the required level.
How Much is a Tint Ticket in Alabama?
Tinting a car without a permit in Alabama is a misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of 10 days in jail and a $100 fine. A first conviction for tinting without a permit can also lead to a driver’s license suspension.
Secret Tips
How To Pass Inspection With Tinted Windows
Alabama Tint law references
- Alabama Code Title 32, Chapter 5C: Window tinting and medical exceptions
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency – Tinting Regulations
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, it is important to be familiar with the Alabama window tint laws if you are planning to get your car tinted. While there are some restrictions, the benefits of window tinting make it well worth the effort to follow the guidelines. To learn more about Alabama’s window tinting laws or for assistance finding a qualified installer, visit the website of the Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center.
The goal of creating this article was to enlighten you about the Alabama tint laws so you can confidently drive your car through the state. The article you’ve read just now was last updated in 2021. If you think we’ve missed any new information, feel free to contact us anytime you want.
