Window Tint Laws in Arizona: What's Legal in 2026
Arizona has some of the more permissive window tint laws in the country, but there are still limits, and getting pulled over for illegal tint is a hassle nobody wants. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s legal in 2026.
Arizona Window Tint Regulations
Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS 28-959.01) set the following rules for passenger vehicles:
Front Windshield
- Tint is allowed on the top 5 inches only (the “visor strip”)
- The tint strip must not extend below the AS-1 line
- No specific darkness limit for this strip, but it must allow sufficient visibility
Front Side Windows (Driver and Passenger)
- Must allow at least 33% of light to pass through (33% VLT)
- This means the film itself can be darker than 33%, because factory glass already blocks some light
- Your installer should measure the combined VLT (film + glass) to ensure compliance
Rear Side Windows
- Any darkness is allowed, including limo tint (5% VLT)
- No restrictions on how dark you go
Rear Window
- Any darkness is allowed
- If the rear window is tinted, the vehicle must have side mirrors on both sides (which virtually all modern vehicles do)
What This Means in Practice
Most of our customers choose this popular combination:
- Front sides: 35% film (achieves ~30-33% combined VLT with factory glass)
- Rear sides: 15-20% film for a darker look and better heat rejection
- Rear window: 15-20% to match the rear sides
- Windshield strip: Ceramic tint across the top 5 inches
This gives you a cohesive look, strong heat rejection, and full legal compliance.
Ceramic vs. Dyed vs. Metallic Tint
The type of film matters for both legality and performance:
Ceramic tint: Our recommendation and the only type we install. Blocks up to 60% of solar heat without any metallic particles. Won’t interfere with electronics or GPS. Best heat rejection for Arizona summers.
Dyed tint: The cheapest option. Provides privacy but limited heat rejection (20-30%). Tends to fade and turn purple over time. Not ideal for Arizona’s UV intensity.
Metallic tint: Good heat rejection but contains metal particles that can interfere with cell signals, GPS, Bluetooth, and radio reception. We don’t recommend it for modern vehicles with numerous electronic systems.
Medical Exemptions
Arizona allows a medical exemption for darker front window tint if you have a qualifying medical condition such as:
- Lupus
- Photosensitivity disorders
- Melanoma or skin cancer history
- Other conditions requiring UV protection
You’ll need a signed statement from a licensed physician specifying the medical necessity. The exemption certificate must be carried in the vehicle.
Penalties for Illegal Tint
If you’re pulled over with illegal front window tint in Arizona:
- First offense is a civil traffic violation (typically $100-$200 fine)
- You’ll be required to remove or replace the tint to comply
- Repeat offenses can result in higher fines
Vehicle inspections (if required for registration in some cases) will also check tint compliance.
Tips for Staying Legal
- Use a reputable installer. They should measure combined VLT after installation, not just go by the film percentage
- Ask for a tint certificate. This documents the film brand, type, and VLT percentages installed
- Keep documentation. If you have a medical exemption, keep it in your glove box
- Go ceramic. Even at legal VLT levels, ceramic tint provides dramatically better heat rejection than dyed alternatives
Why Professional Installation Matters
Cheap tint jobs are the most common reason for tint-related traffic stops. Bubbling, peeling, and purple discoloration make your tint look aftermarket and draw attention. Professionally installed ceramic tint looks factory-applied, performs better, and comes with a warranty.
At PPF Pros, every window tint installation includes:
- Measurement of combined VLT to ensure legal compliance
- Computer-cut patterns for your exact vehicle model
- Ceramic film exclusively for maximum performance
- Lifetime warranty against bubbling, peeling, and discoloration
Ready to get your windows tinted legally and professionally? View our window tint services or book a free consultation at our Gilbert, AZ shop.