Window tinting enhances the appearance of your vehicle, but it also offers practical benefits, like reducing glare and protecting against harmful UV rays.

However, before you proceed with tinting your car windows, it’s essential to be aware of the window tinting laws in your state. In Arkansas, specific regulations govern the darkness of tint allowed on vehicle windows.

The regulations can be confusing, so we’re here to provide a comprehensive guide to Arkansas window tinting laws to help you stay compliant and informed before you tint your windows.

Arkansas Window Tinting Laws

Windshield tinting

In Arkansas, drivers are not permitted to apply any tint to the windshield, with the exception of a non-reflective tint strip along the top of the windshield. This strip may not extend below the manufacturer’s AS-1 line, or more than five inches from the top of the windshield.

Front side windows

Window tinting is permitted for front side windows in Arkansas, but the tint darkness must allow at least 25% of light to pass through. This means that the tint must not be darker than 25% VLT (Visible Light Transmission).

If you have questions about how to determine your car’s exact VLT percentage, your auto glass professional will be happy to help you figure it out! Tinting material is labeled according to tint percentage, but your overall VLT might be different if your car’s factory windows have any tint applied to them.

Back side windows and rear window

Unlike front side windows and front windshields, the regulations for back side windows and teh rear window are more lenient in Arkansas. These windows may have a darker tint, allowing at least 10% of light to pass through (with a tint not darker than 10% VLT).

Tint reflection

Arkansas does not have specific laws pertaining to tint reflection. However, we’d always advise avoiding metallic or mirrored tins that may cause excessive reflection, posing a hazard to other drivers on the road.

Medical exemptions

Arkansas does allow medical exemptions for window tinting that exceeds the legal limits. Individuals with specific medical conditions may be eligible for an exemption, but they must apply for a special permit from the Arkansas State Police.

Consequences of non-compliance

If you don’t comply with Arkansas window tinting laws, you might find yourself facing fines and penalties. Windows that are tinted beyond the permitted darkness levels may leave you subject to traffic citations and fines. 

Additionally, law enforcement may require you to remove the excess tint to meet legal requirements for VLT.

Benefits of window tinting

While some of the laws surrounding window tinting can seem complex, there are plenty of benefits to window tinting as well, even within legal limits!

UV protection

Window tinting can block a significant portion of harmful UV rays, which protects your skin and can reduce interior fading over time.

Glare reduction

Tinted windows reduce glare from the sun and other drivers’ headlights, making driving safer and more comfortable.

Heat reduction

Investing in quality window tinting can actually help keep your car cooler by reducing heat absorption from the sun– reducing the need for excessive air conditioning!

Where should I go to get my windows tinted in Arkansas?

Before you tint your car windows, you should make sure that you’re familiar with the local window tinting laws– and that you find a window tinting professional who is careful to adhere to those regulations.

For high-quality window tinting that will keep you within the legal VLT limits while helping your car look great, look no further than the glass experts here at Fast Glass Service. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or get a quote, and learn more about the benefits of window tinting for your vehicle!