From cutting down on the amount of sunlight glare to giving your car’s appearance a boost, auto tint is a versatile and attractive vehicle modification. But there are several elements of the process—and law—to understand before having the tint applied to your car. Here are some crucial pieces of information to know about auto tinting in Arizona. 

4 FAQ About Auto Tinting in Arizona

What are the benefits of auto tint?

One of the biggest benefits of window tinting is ultraviolet (UV) protection. Over time, UV light can damage the interior of your vehicle, discoloring and wearing down the upholstery materials. Window tinting can block up to 99% of UV light, providing much-needed relief from the sun’s rays and preserving the quality of your car’s interior. 

How is auto tint measured?

Visible light transmission (VLT) is the percentage of light that is allowed to pass through your vehicle’s windows. Different tints, or thin layers of polyester material applied to a window or mirror, have different VLT values; the lower the VLT, the darker the tint. However, different vehicles and windows can have different legal VLT limits.

What is legal auto tint in Arizona?

For sedans, SUVs, and vans, the legal guidelines for auto tint are fairly consistent. A non-reflective tint is allowed on the windshield above the manufacture’s AS-1 line or the strip of glass at the top of the windshield. Front side window tint must have a VLT value of at least 33% and tinting of any VLT value can be used for the back side and rear windows. However, you should double-check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to make sure your chosen tint is in complete compliance with the law.

Are there any other special considerations in Arizona?

Red and amber-colored tints are illegal in the state of Arizona. Although back windows can be tinted with any VLT value, double side mirrors must be installed if any tint is used. Also, there are certain medical exemptions that can be made for special tints. Your local DMV should be able to guide you through the process of securing those particular exemptions.

If you’re looking to protect your vehicle from the harmful effects of UV light, call Tint Cartel in Chandler, AZ. The auto tint company takes pride in creating custom tint solutions that block up to 99% of UV light for every customer. Even better, the materials are guaranteed not to bubble, crack, or change color. Visit the website for more information on the services provided or call (602) 643-8070 to speak with a friendly representative today.