As you prepare to hit the open road in Arkansas, you’ll want to guarantee your vehicle’s window tint complies with state regulations. You’re likely aware that window tinting laws vary by state, but did you know Arkansas has specific guidelines for different types of vehicles?
From sedans to larger vehicles, the rules differ, and understanding these distinctions is vital to avoid costly penalties. You might be wondering, what exactly are the requirements for your vehicle, and how can you obtain a medical exemption if needed?
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Window Tint Darkness in Arkansas
When driving in Arkansas, it’s essential to understand the state’s laws regarding window tint darkness to avoid any potential issues with law enforcement.
The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage determines the window tint darkness, and Arkansas has specific regulations.
For sedans, the front side windows must have a VLT of more than 25%, allowing most of the light to pass through.
Meanwhile, the rear side windows can have a slightly darker tint, with a VLT of more than 10%. This means that at least 10% of light must pass through the rear side windows.
Certify your vehicle complies with these regulations to avoid any legal issues.
Automotive Window Tint Simulator
Move the slider above to see how dark the tint will look. Usually, the actual tint will appear with 0-5% variation than what you see here.
Tint Reflection in Arkansas
Arkansas’s window tint laws also dictate the allowable tint reflection on your vehicle’s windows.
You’re not allowed to have a tint that’s too reflective, as it can cause glare for other drivers. The state has set specific standards for tint reflection to guarantee road safety.
For sedans, SUVs, and vans, the tint reflection can’t be more than 25% reflective on the windshield and front side windows.
For rear side windows and rear window, there’s no restriction on tint reflection.
It’s essential to comply with these regulations to avoid fines and penalties. Remember, Arkansas’s window tinting laws are in place to promote road safety, so it’s vital to understand and follow the rules.
Arkansas Window Tint Rules
Investigate the specific guidelines governing window tinting in Arkansas, as outlined in the state’s window tint rules. You need to guarantee your Arkansas window tint complies with these laws to avoid penalties.
| Window | Visible Light Allowed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front side windows (sedans) | 25% or higher | No restrictions on rear side windows for larger vehicles |
| Rear windows (sedans) | 10% or higher | Medical exemptions available with certified document |
| Windshield | Top 5 inches only, non-reflective | No reflective or metallic tint allowed on any surface |
| Rear side windows (larger vehicles) | 10% or higher | Front side windows must still meet 25% VLT requirement |
Verify that your Arkansas window tint installation meets these standards to avoid penalties.
State of Arkansas Information
Located in the southern United States, Arkansas is the 29th largest state by area and the 33rd most populous.
As you venture into the Natural State, you’ll find a blend of mountains, forests, and delta regions.
Arkansas’s diverse landscape is home to over 3 million people, with Little Rock being the capital and most populous city.
In regards to vehicle windows, you should be aware of the Arkansas Tint Laws.
These laws regulate Window Tinting on vehicles, ensuring safety on the road.
Understanding these regulations is vital to avoid fines and penalties.
Tint Law References
When reviewing the window tinting laws in Arkansas, you’ll want to reference the Arkansas Code, specifically Title 27, Transportation, Section 27-37-306, which outlines the light transmission levels for window tinting.
Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with the certification requirements for window tinting manufacturers and installers.
Arkansas Code
According to Arkansas Code Title 27, Section 27-37-306, you’ll find the specific regulations governing the tinting of motor vehicle windows in the state.
This code outlines the permitted levels of visible light transmission and reflectivity for your window tint. It specifies that the glass in front of the operator may have a strip of tinting material applied, but it can’t extend more than 5 inches from the top center of the windshield.
The code also sets standards for side windows, side wings, and rear windows, allowing for varying levels of net light transmission depending on the vehicle model and type.
Window Tint Laws
You can reference Arkansas Code Title 27, Section 27-37-306 for a comprehensive understanding of the window tint laws in the state.
Enacted in 1993 and last updated in 2024, these laws specify the light transmission levels for motor vehicle windows.
For sedans, the windshield can have a non-reflective tint on the top 5 inches, while front side windows must allow more than 25% of light in.
Rear windows of sedans must allow more than 10% of light in, and SUVs and vans have similar reflection rules to sedans.
Remember, stickers are required between the film and glass on the driver’s side window.
Certification Requirements
To guarantee conformity with Arkansas’ window tint laws, it’s vital to understand the certification requirements for window tint manufacturers and installers.
Unlike some states, Arkansas doesn’t require film manufacturers to certify the film they sell.
However, installers must comply with Arkansas Section 27-37-306, which outlines light transmission levels for window tinting.
You’ll need to apply a sticker between the glass and the window tint film, visible from the outside, to show compliance with state regulations.
Additionally, a label from the installer is required, affirming that the tinting meets the state’s requirements.
This certification process verifies that your vehicle’s window tint meets Arkansas’ standards.
Medical Exemptions in Arkansas
Frequently, individuals in Arkansas with certain medical conditions require exemptions from the state’s window tinting laws. You may be eligible for a medical exemption if you have a medical condition that necessitates a darker window tint. To obtain a medical exemption, you’ll need to get a physician’s certification stating that you require a darker tint for medical reasons. This certification will serve as a medical waiver, allowing you to install window tints that wouldn’t normally be permitted under Arkansas law.
| Medical Condition | Physician’s Certification | Medical Waiver |
|---|---|---|
| Severe light sensitivity | Required | Granted for tint < 25% VLT |
| Skin conditions (e.g. lupus) | Required | Granted for tint < 35% VLT |
| Eye conditions (e.g. cataracts) | Required | Granted for tint < 20% VLT |
| Other medical conditions | Case-by-case | Determined by Arkansas DMV |
Legal Window Tint Certificates
After obtaining a medical exemption, Arkansas residents must guarantee they comply with the state’s window tinting laws by acquiring a legal window tint certificate.
This document serves as proof that your vehicle’s window tint meets the state’s window tint rules.
To get a legal window tint certificate, you’ll need a physician’s certification stating that you require a darker window tint for medical reasons.
With this certification, you can apply for a legal window tint certificate from the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Make sure to keep this certificate in your vehicle at all times, as it’s legal proof that your window tint is permitted under Arkansas law.
Illegal Window Tint Penalties
If you’re caught with illegal window tint in Arkansas, you’ll face serious penalties, including fines of up to $1000 and imprisonment of up to three months.
You can’t claim ignorance of the laws as a defense, and enforcement agencies have the discretion to issue traffic violations.
Additionally, you may be required to remove or replace non-compliant window tint, on top of paying fines and potentially serving time.
Fine Amounts Imposed
In Arkansas, you could face a hefty fine of up to $1000 for illegal window tinting, a penalty that underscores the importance of complying with the state’s window tint laws.
This fine is imposed for violating Arkansas window tint laws, which are considered a Class B misdemeanor offense.
Enforcement agencies have discretion in issuing fines, which can vary in severity depending on the circumstances.
It’s essential to understand that failure to comply with Arkansas window tint laws can result in more than just a fine – it can lead to registration issues and even impact your vehicle’s compliance.
Jail Time Consequences
You’re not just facing a fine for illegal window tinting in Arkansas; you could also be looking at jail time. If you’re caught operating a vehicle with illegal window tint on Arkansas roads, you may be arrested and charged. According to Arkansas Code Annotated §27-37-306, the section shall carry penalties for illegal window tinting.
| Offense | Jail Time |
|---|---|
| First offense | Up to 10 days |
| Second offense | Up to 20 days |
| Third offense | Up to 30 days |
| Subsequent offenses | Up to 1 year |
Window Tint Installation in Arkansas
Arkansas motorists need to be aware of the state’s specific laws governing window tint installation to certify their vehicles comply with regulations.
As regards window tinting in Arkansas, you’ll need to verify your vehicle meets the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) requirements.
For sedans, front side windows require a VLT of at least 25%, while rear windows need a minimum of 10%.
Rear windshields can have a tint with a VLT of up to 10%.
Larger private vehicles like vans, trucks, and SUVs can have darker windows, with front side windows limited to a 25% VLT tint darkness.
Always check that your window tint manufacturer has certified the film they sell in the state, and make certain a sticker is applied between the glass and film on each tinted window to identify legal tinting.
Arkansas Window Tint Exemptions
When you’re considering window tint exemptions in Arkansas, you’ll want to know about the medical exemptions allowed for certain individuals.
You may also qualify for special tinting for special needs, or even darker tint for safety reasons in specific circumstances.
It’s essential to understand these exemptions to guarantee you’re in compliance with Arkansas window tint laws and to confirm you’re meeting all the necessary requirements.
Medical Exemptions Allowed
As certain medical conditions necessitate special considerations, Arkansas window tint exemptions cater to individuals who require darker tints for health reasons.
If you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint, you may be eligible for an exemption. You’ll need to obtain a physician’s certification stating that you require a specific tint percentage due to your medical condition.
This certification must be issued by a licensed physician and include your name, the condition necessitating the exemption, and the recommended tint percentage.
Once you have this certification, you can apply for a medical exemption, which will allow you to install window tints with a lower visible light transmission than the standard Arkansas window tint law permits.
Tinting for Special Needs
Many individuals with special needs require adaptations to their vehicles to guarantee a safe and comfortable environment. If you have a medical condition that necessitates darker window tints, you may be eligible for an exemption. To qualify, you’ll need a physician’s certification stating that the condition requires a darker tint. In Arkansas, a window tint with a visible light transmission of at least twenty percent is allowed for individuals with special needs.
| Condition | Allowed Tint |
|---|---|
| Photophobia or severe light sensitivity | Less than 20% VLT |
| Albinism or porphyria | Less than 20% VLT |
| Other medical conditions (with physician’s certification) | At least 20% VLT |
Dark Tint for Safety
In Arkansas, individuals with certain medical conditions can obtain an exemption for window tinting that would otherwise be illegal, allowing them to prioritize their safety and well-being on the road.
To qualify, you’ll need a signed document from your doctor stating that the darker tint is necessary for your health and well-being. This is considered a medical exemption, which can provide relief for those who require extra protection from the sun.
- You’ll need to obtain a physician’s certification stating that the darker tint is medically necessary.
- The Arkansas Department of Health reviews and approves medical exemption requests.
- Medical exemptions are typically valid for a specific period, usually three years, and must be renewed.
- You’ll need to submit updated documentation from a doctor to renew your exemption.
