Arizona’s tint law — ARS 28-959.01 — is actually one of the friendlier ones in the country, which makes sense for the state that needs tint most. Here’s the whole law, minus the legalese.
| Glass | Arizona rule |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line only |
| Front side windows | Must allow more than 33% of light through (33%+ VLT) |
| Back side windows | Any darkness |
| Rear window | Any darkness (dual side mirrors required if darkened) |
| Reflectivity | Max 35% reflective, front and back sides |
| Colors | Red and amber prohibited |
The number that matters: VLT measures light through the glass — factory glass already absorbs some, so film percentage and net VLT aren't the same thing. A pro meters the combined result; that's how you land legal instead of arguing at a traffic stop. Every installer in our network quotes to net-legal by default.
Choosing the film itself is the bigger decision — the ceramic vs. dyed guide runs the honest comparison. Then get a quote from a certified installer in your area — legal levels guaranteed in writing.
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Front side windows must let more than 33% of visible light through (33%+ VLT). Back side windows and the rear window can be as dark as you want — limo tint is legal behind the driver. The windshield can only be tinted above the manufacturer's AS-1 line.
Reflectivity is capped at 35% on front and back side windows — true mirror finishes are out. Red and amber tints are explicitly prohibited. Standard charcoal ceramic and dyed films are all comfortably within the rules.
Yes — Arizona allows a medical exemption for conditions requiring UV protection (documentation from a physician). It covers the person, not the car generally, and you carry the paperwork. Installers in our network handle exemption jobs routinely.
It's a civil traffic violation — typically a fix-it style ticket plus a fine that varies by court, and you'll be removing and redoing the fronts, which costs more than tinting them legally once. Out-of-state cars driven in AZ are generally held to their home-state rules.
Ceramic tint runs $350–$650 full-vehicle vs.
Read the guide →Residential window film runs $6–$14 per square foot installed in Arizona in 2026 — $800–$2,500 for most homes' sun-facing glass.
Read the guide →Commercial window film runs $5–$12 per square foot installed in 2026; fleet vehicle programs price per vehicle at volume rates.
Read the guide →