What's The Legal Tint In Alabama

Alright, let's talk tint in Alabama. Not just any tint, but the legal tint. Understanding the legal limits for window tint in Alabama is crucial if you're planning to modify your ride, get it inspected, or simply avoid a costly ticket. We're going to break down the regulations, the science behind them, and what it all means for you, the DIYer and car enthusiast.

Purpose of Knowing Legal Tint Limits

Why bother understanding Alabama's tint laws? Several reasons:

Avoiding Fines: Let's face it, nobody wants a ticket. Illegal tint is an easy target for law enforcement.
Vehicle Inspection: Your vehicle will fail inspection if the tint is too dark.
Visibility and Safety: Exceedingly dark tint reduces visibility, especially at night and in low-light conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.
Resale Value: Illegal modifications can decrease the resale value of your car.
DIY Tinting: If you're applying tint yourself (or having someone do it), you need to know the legal limits to ensure compliance.

Key Specs and Main Parts of Alabama Tint Law

Alabama's tint laws revolve around one primary specification: Visible Light Transmission (VLT). VLT is the percentage of visible light that can pass through the window film and glass. Lower VLT numbers indicate darker tint.

Here's the breakdown for passenger vehicles in Alabama:

Windshield:

Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top 6 inches of the windshield.

Front Side Windows:

Must allow more than 32% VLT.

Back Side Windows:

Any darkness allowed.

Rear Window:

Any darkness allowed if the vehicle is equipped with side mirrors.

Important Notes:

These regulations apply to passenger vehicles (cars, SUVs, vans). Laws might differ for commercial vehicles.
Alabama law also addresses reflectivity. The tint cannot be more than 20% reflective. This is less commonly a concern for standard tint films.
Medical exemptions exist. If you have a medical condition requiring darker tint, you can apply for an exemption with supporting documentation.

Understanding VLT Measurement: The Technical Side

VLT is measured using a spectrophotometer. This device shines a light through the tinted window and measures the amount of light that passes through. The reading is then expressed as a percentage. Police officers often use portable spectrophotometers to check tint levels during traffic stops.

Keep in mind that factory glass already has a certain VLT. This means that adding tint film will further reduce the overall VLT. For example, if your factory glass has a VLT of 80%, and you apply a 35% tint film, the resulting VLT will be lower than 35% due to the combination.

Symbols and Terminology

When researching tint, you'll encounter specific terms and potentially symbols or diagrams. Here's a clarification:

VLT (Visible Light Transmission): As discussed, the percentage of light that passes through.
UV Rejection: The percentage of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays blocked by the film. Most quality tint films offer excellent UV rejection.
IR Rejection: The percentage of infrared (IR) radiation (heat) blocked by the film. This is a key factor in reducing heat inside your car.
TSER (Total Solar Energy Rejected): A comprehensive measure of how well the film blocks total solar energy, including UV, visible light, and IR.
Reflectivity: The percentage of light reflected by the film.

Diagrams often depict VLT percentages for different tint shades. A simple bar graph might show VLT levels ranging from 5% (limo tint) to 70% (nearly clear).

How It Works: Tint Film Application

Tint film consists of several layers:

Release Liner: This protective layer is removed before application, exposing the adhesive.
Adhesive Layer: This layer bonds the film to the glass.
Polyester Film Layer(s): This is the main layer that provides the tint and UV/IR protection. Higher quality films often use multiple layers for enhanced performance and durability.
Scratch-Resistant Coating: This outer layer protects the film from scratches and abrasions.

The application process involves cleaning the window, cutting the film to size, applying the film to the window, and using a squeegee to remove air bubbles and excess water. Proper application is crucial for a smooth, professional look and long-lasting results.

Real-World Use: Basic Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some common tint-related issues and how to address them:

Bubbling or Peeling: This can be caused by poor installation, low-quality film, or exposure to extreme temperatures. Re-application may be necessary.
Fading or Discoloration: Lower-quality films can fade or turn purple over time due to UV exposure. Opting for a high-quality film with good UV protection can prevent this.
Hazy Appearance: This could be due to trapped moisture or a problem with the film itself. Professional re-application is usually the best solution.
Failure to Pass Inspection: If your tint fails inspection, you'll need to remove the illegal film and either replace it with legal tint or leave the windows clear.

Pro Tip: When having tint installed, always ask for documentation that specifies the VLT of the film used. This will be helpful if you ever need to prove compliance with the law.

Safety Considerations

While tinting your windows is a common modification, it's crucial to understand the potential risks:

Reduced Visibility: Excessively dark tint can significantly impair your vision, especially at night and in adverse weather conditions.
Impaired Night Driving: Dark tint reduces the amount of light entering the vehicle, making it harder to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Emergency Situations: In emergency situations, dark tint can hinder rescue efforts by making it difficult for first responders to see inside the vehicle.

Therefore, sticking to legal tint levels is not just about avoiding fines; it's about ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Staying Compliant

The best way to stay compliant with Alabama's tint laws is to:

Thoroughly research the regulations before tinting your windows.
Choose a reputable installer who is familiar with local laws.
Obtain documentation that specifies the VLT of the film used.
Consider investing in a VLT meter if you frequently work on vehicles or want to verify the tint levels yourself.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of window tint while staying on the right side of the law and prioritizing safety.

Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult with a qualified legal professional for specific legal questions.

We hope this detailed explanation has shed some light on Alabama's legal tint requirements. Knowing the rules is half the battle, and now you're well-equipped to make informed decisions about your vehicle's window tint.

And to further help you, we have the legal tint diagram file available. Feel free to request for it.