The state of Arkansas’ window tint laws came into effect in 1993 but apply only to after-market installation of window tint film.
Factory-tinted auto glass is not subject to these laws.
Tinted vehicle windows serve valuable purposes such as reducing glare, screening out UV rays, and keeping vehicle interiors cool.
While there are many good reasons to have tinted vehicle windows, Arkansas state police say that very dark windows can hinder drivers’ ability to see pedestrians, road signs, and other vehicles, particularly at night.
Tinted windows can become a traffic safety concern as a result.
Wherever you drive in the state, the question of “can you get pulled over for tint in Arkansas?” is a valid one.
The answer, in most cases, is yes. More information is provided below.
Parameters of Window Tint Laws
The allowable darkness of window tint for vehicles in Arkansas is specific to the state, and enforcement can vary across cities or counties.
Be aware that tint laws in Arkansas are also subject to change at any given time, so it’s a good idea to check with local DMVs or law enforcement for current rules and regulations in your area.
The level of allowable window tint in Arkansas is different for passenger vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles.
It is measured by the percentage of Visible Light Transmission (VLT).
Tinting Regulations for Passenger Vehicles in Arkansas
VLT is determined by the percent of visible light that passes through the glass and tint film.
The higher the VLT, the more light passes through.
Therefore, 100% VLT equals transparent, 0% VLT equals opaque.
A window tint VLT that equals 75% means that 75% of light will pass through the film and glass.
A window tint VLT that equals 25% means only 25% of light will pass through, and visually is a far darker tint than a 75% VLT.
In Arkansas, the legal limit for passenger vehicles, including SUV crossovers, but excluding trucks, SUVs, or vans, is as follows:
- Front Windshields: only the first five inches may have a non-reflective tint applied
- Front passenger side windows: no more than 25% tint may be applied (VLT ≥ 75%)
- Rear passenger side windows: no more than 25% tint may be applied (VLT ≥ 75%)
- Rear windshields: up to 10% tint may be applied (VLT ≥ 90%)
Tinting Regulations for Multi-Purpose Vehicles in Arkansas
In Arkansas, the legal limit for multi-purpose vehicles, which includes trucks, SUVs, and vans, is as follows:
- Front Windshields: only the top 5 inches may have a non-reflective tint applied
- Front passenger side windows: no more than 25% tint may be applied (VLT ≥ 75%)
- Rear passenger side windows: no more than 10% tint may be applied (VLT ≥ 90%)
- Rear windshields: up to 10% tint may be applied (VLT ≥ 90%)
Other Arkansas Window Tint Rules and Regulations
Beyond the VLT rules, the state of Arkansas has additional restrictions regarding what is required, allowed, or not allowed for window tints.
We recommend you read the following statements carefully before you decide to apply window tints to your vehicle.
- If your rear window is tinted, you are required to have dual side mirrors on your car.
- There is no regulation in Arkansas regarding allowable tint color. All colors of window tint are acceptable.
- Window tint film sold in Arkansas is not required to be certified by the manufacturer.
- As of August 13, 2013, any company installing after-market window tinting in a vehicle must place an identifying sticker on the front windshield to the driver’s left, between the glass and tint film. The sticker must bear the installer’s name and phone number and affirm that all vehicle tinting meets Arkansas state law requirements.
- There are medical exemptions for specialized window tints allowed in Arkansas, as identified below.
Medical Exemptions to Window Tint Laws in Arkansas
There is a provision for Arkansas vehicle owners to be exempt from window tint state laws for medical reasons.
You must file for an exemption by completing a waiver request form.
To be exempt, you must provide a letter signed by a licensed physician stating it is medically necessary for you to have non-standard window tinting.
When granted, the exemption is valid for three years from the date of issue, and you must carry the certificate with you at all times while in your vehicle.
With a medical exemption in Arkansas, you can tint your vehicle windows to the following limits:
- Front windshields: up to 50% tint (VLT ≥ 50%)
- Front and rear passenger side windows: up to 20% tint (VLT ≥ 80%)
- Rear windshields: up to 10% tint (VLT ≥ 90%)
Can You Get Pulled Over for Tint in Arkansas?
As per Arkansas Code Title 27. Transportation § 27-37-306, Police can pull over a vehicle that appears to, or is suspected of, having illegal window tinting.
Police vehicles are equipped with devices to test window tint levels.
Driving with or installing illegally tinted windows is a Class B misdemeanor in the state of Arkansas and carries a penalty of up to $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail.
Is it Legal to Tint Your Own Windows in Arkansas?
It is allowable to apply your own window tint film in the state of Arkansas.
You must ensure that purchased window film meets the state law requirements for allowable VLT and includes a manufacturer’s affirmation as to its darkness and/or reflective value.