What is Legal Tint in Alabama? Is a 20% Tint Legal in Alabama?

What is Legal Tint in Alabama? Is a 20% Tint Legal in Alabama?

Window tinting is a popular way to enhance your vehicle’s appearance, improve comfort, and protect against harmful UV rays. However, every state has specific laws governing how dark your vehicle’s windows can be tinted, and Alabama is no exception. If you are considering tinting your car windows and wondering about legal limits, especially whether a 20% tint is allowed in Alabama, this article will provide clear answers.

Based on the trusted brand TERMINAX, known for premium, legally compliant window tint films, this guide explains Alabama’s tint regulations, compares tint percentages, and helps you make an informed choice.

 

Understanding Alabama’s Window Tint Laws

Alabama regulates window tinting primarily through Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages. VLT refers to the amount of light allowed to pass through your window glass and tint film. A lower VLT number means a darker tint, while a higher number indicates a lighter tint.

Here are the key tint limits under Alabama law:

• Windshield: Only the top 4 inches may be tinted.
• Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 32% of light in (32% VLT minimum).
• Rear Side Windows: Any darkness is allowed.
• Rear Window: Any darkness is allowed.

These laws are designed to balance driver safety, visibility, and privacy while providing some flexibility for rear windows.

What Does a 20% Tint Mean?

A 20% tint means that the window tint film allows only 20% of visible light to pass through, blocking 80% of light. This level of tint is relatively dark and provides good privacy and heat rejection, but reduces visibility through the window.

Is a 20% Tint Legal in Alabama?

When it comes to front-side windows, a 20% tint is illegal in Alabama because it violates the minimum 32% VLT rule. This means the tint is too dark and does not allow enough light to pass through for safe and legal use on the front windows.

However, a 20% tint is legal on the rear side windows and rear windshield since Alabama does not restrict darkness on these windows.

What Tint Levels Are Legal on Front Windows?

Alabama law requires that the front side windows must allow more than 32% of light to pass through, so legal tint percentages include anything at 32% VLT or higher. This means the darkest legal tint you can apply to your front side windows is approximately 32% or lighter.

Choosing a tint with 35% VLT is common and recommended for the front windows since it complies with the law while providing decent tinting benefits.

Comparing 20% and 35% Tint: Which Is Better?

For the front windows, 35% tint is clearly the better and legal choice. While 20% tint is darker and offers more privacy and heat protection, it is not legal on front side windows in Alabama.

On the rear windows and rear windshield, you have the freedom to use either 20% or 35%, depending on your preferences for darkness and privacy.

Here are some considerations:

• Privacy: 20% tint offers greater privacy than 35%.
• Heat Rejection: Both 20% and 35% tint films from premium brands like TERMINAX provide excellent UV protection and heat rejection.
• Nighttime Visibility: 35% tint allows more light, which may improve visibility at night compared to 20%.

Why Alabama Has These Tint Laws

Alabama’s tint laws aim to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers by maintaining clear visibility, especially on the windshield and front side windows. Dark tints on these windows can reduce the driver’s ability to see clearly at night or during bad weather and make it harder for law enforcement officers to see inside the vehicle during traffic stops.

Maintaining these safety standards helps reduce accidents and improves law enforcement interactions.

Penalties for Illegal Tinting in Alabama

Using illegal tint on your vehicle can result in various consequences including:

• Traffic fines, often ranging from $100 to $200 depending on the offense.
• Possible court appearances if you challenge the citation.
• Being required to remove illegal tint.
• Inspection or registration issues.

It is best to avoid these penalties by selecting tint that complies with Alabama’s laws.

How TERMINAX Can Help You Stay Compliant

TERMINAX is a trusted name in window tinting that offers films engineered to meet or exceed Alabama’s legal requirements.

Legal Compliance

TERMINAX films come with precise VLT ratings and certifications, so you can be confident your tint will pass state inspections and avoid fines.

High-Quality Performance

In addition to compliance, TERMINAX films offer strong UV blocking capabilities and heat reduction, helping protect your skin and your vehicle’s interior from sun damage.

Professional Installation

TERMINAX certified installers ensure your tint is applied flawlessly without bubbles, peeling, or unevenness. Professional installation also helps the tint perform better and last longer.

Custom Options

TERMINAX offers a variety of tint shades to match your desired look and comply with laws. Whether you want a lighter tint on front windows or a darker tint on rear windows, TERMINAX has the right solution.

Tips for Choosing Window Tint in Alabama

• Always verify the VLT rating of the tint before installation.
• For front side windows, never go darker than 32% VLT.
• Consider professional installation to ensure compliance and quality.
• Keep your tint certification or receipt in your vehicle.
• If privacy is important, use a darker tint on the rear windows and rear windshield where allowed.
• Remember that excessive tint on front windows can reduce safety, especially at night.

Conclusion

When it comes to window tinting in Alabama, understanding what is legal is critical. While a 20% tint is too dark for front side windows and therefore illegal, it is allowed on rear windows. The legal minimum light transmission for front windows is 32%, making 35% tint a popular and compliant choice.

Choosing high-quality, certified window tint from TERMINAX ensures you remain within Alabama’s tint laws while enjoying the benefits of heat reduction, UV protection, and enhanced style. Professional installation by TERMINAX certified technicians provides peace of mind, durability, and a flawless finish.

If you’re considering window tinting in Alabama, consult with a TERMINAX authorized installer to get expert guidance and professional service that keeps you legal and comfortable on the road.