Window Tint Limits in Arkansas
How Dark Can You Legally Tint Your Windows in Arkansas?
— THE TINT GUY
If you're thinking about tinting your vehicle in Northwest Arkansas, one of the first questions that comes up is:
“How dark can I legally go?”
Arkansas Window Tint Laws (Explained Simply)
Arkansas uses VLT (Visible Light Transmission) to determine what’s legal. VLT is the percentage of light that passes through your window — the lower the number, the darker the tint.
Here are the current legal limits for passenger vehicles (sedans, coupes, hatchbacks):
Front Side Windows — 25% VLT
- Your front driver and passenger windows must allow at least 25% of light to pass through.
- This is the most commonly enforced tint regulation in the state.
Back Side Windows — Any Darkness
- You can legally tint your rear side windows as dark as you want, including limo tint (5%).
Rear Window — Any Darkness
- Just like the rear side windows, the back glass can be
fully blacked out
if you choose.
Windshield — Tint Strip Only
- A non-reflective tint is allowed above the AS-1 line (the small markings near the top of your windshield).
- Full windshield tint requires special approval and is not legal under standard guidelines.
Do These Laws Apply to Trucks & SUVs?
Yes — but with a small difference.
For trucks, vans, and SUVs, the same rules apply for the front windows (25% VLT), but the rear windows can be any darkness as long as the vehicle came from the factory with rear privacy glass or darker tint.
If your vehicle is already tinted from the factory, adding additional film could push it below legal limits — something to consider before upgrading.
What Happens If Your Tint Is Too Dark?
If your tint doesn’t meet Arkansas law, you may face:
- Fix-it tickets
- Fines
- Failed inspections
- Being required to remove the tint
Local police
do check tint darkness, especially during traffic stops.
Why Go Darker Than the Legal Limit?
Some drivers prefer darker tint because:
- It looks better
- It adds privacy
- It blocks more heat (especially with Ceramic)
But keep in mind: heat rejection has nothing to do with how dark the tint is — it depends on the film type.
That means you can stay fully legal
and still
stay cool by choosing a
high-performance Ceramic film.
Does Arkansas Have Medical Exemptions?
- YES
Drivers with certain medical conditions can apply for a special medical exemption that allows darker tint.
However:
- Written documentation from a licensed physician is required
- Exemption must be approved by the state
- You must carry proof in your vehicle.
How to Stay Legal (and Still Get Great Tint)
Here are the best practices for keeping your tint compliant in Arkansas:
- Choose
25% on the front windows
- Match the back windows to your style (any darkness allowed)
- Keep the windshield tint
above the AS-1 line
- Use
Ceramic film to stay cool without going darker than the law allows
If you're unsure, we can measure your current tint and recommend the perfect legal setup.
Want to Make Sure Your Tint Is Legal?
We help drivers all across Northwest Arkansas stay legal and protected.