What is Window Tinting?

• Window tinting is the process of applying a thin film to the windows of vehicles, homes, or any piece of glass to reduce the amount of visible light, UV rays, and heat that can pass through the glass. This film can be made from various materials, including polyester and can come in different shades and levels of reflectivity.
  
  

What ARE THE Window Tint Laws in Tuscaloosa, Alabama?

Alabama law specifies the following regulations regarding window tinting:

• All vehicles are required to have a tint that allows at least 32% of light to pass through on ALL windows. However, there are also a few important exceptions to understand.

The exact legal code is as follows:

Prohibitions: Section 32-5C-2 

(a) Except as provided in this chapter, a person shall not operate a motor vehicle registered in this state under either of the following conditions:

(1) With material or glazing applied or affixed to the front windshield which reduces light transmission through the front windshield.

(2) With material or glazing applied or affixed to the rear windshield or the side or door windows which reduce light transmission through the rear windshield or side windows to less than 32 percent or increase light reflectance to more than 20 percent, with a measurement tolerance of at least 3 percent. The light transmission shall be measured with a device or instrument capable of measuring light transmission before a person may be charged with a violation of this section, and the officer shall be equipped with such a meter before stopping the driver.

(b) This section does not apply to any personal use vehicles belonging to, and occupied by, any active or retired state, local, or federal law enforcement officer.

(c) All active or retired state, local, or federal law enforcement officers shall carry law enforcement identification while driving their personal use vehicles referenced in subsection (b).

(Acts 1996, No. 96-534, p. 746, §2; Act 2021-451, §1.)

Exceptions: Section 32-5C-3 

(The provisions of Section 32-5C-2 shall not apply to any of the following:

(1) Adjustable sun visors which are mounted forward of the side windows and are not attached to the glass.

(2) Signs, stickers, or other matter which is displayed in a seven-inch square in the lower corner of the front or rear windshield.

(3) Direction, destination, or termination signs upon a passenger common carrier motor vehicle if the signs do not interfere with the driver’s clear view of approaching traffic.

(4) Any transparent item which is not red or amber in color which is placed on the uppermost six inches of the windshield.

(5) Any federal, state, or local sticker or certificate which is required by law to be placed on any windshield or window.

(6) Any other vehicle, the windows or windshields of which have been tinted or darkened before factory delivery or permitted by federal law or regulation.

(7) Any motor vehicle not registered in this state.

(Acts 1996, No. 96-534, p. 746, §3.)

Alabama law (Section 32-5C-2) prohibits operating a motor vehicle registered in the state with tint on the front windshield that reduces light transmission, or with tint on the rear windshield or side windows that reduces light transmission below 32% or increases reflectance above 20%, with a 3% measurement tolerance. A citation requires that the officer use a light meter at the time of the stop. These restrictions do not apply to personal-use vehicles owned and occupied by active or retired law enforcement officers—state, local, or federal—provided they carry law enforcement ID while driving.

Section 32-5C-3 lists several exceptions, including: adjustable sun visors not attached to glass; stickers or signs within a 7-inch square in the lower corner of the front or rear windshield; signs on buses that don’t block the driver’s view; transparent, non-red/amber items on the upper six inches of the windshield; and legally required decals. 

Importantly, the law does not apply to any vehicle whose windows or windshield were tinted or darkened before factory delivery or as permitted by federal law or regulation AND/OR any vehicle not registered in Alabama.

What are the Benefits of Window Tinting in Tuscaloosa, Alabama?

• Heat Reduction: By blocking a significant portion of the sun's heat, window tinting helps keep interiors cooler, providing relief from the relentless Alabama heat. This can lead to enhanced comfort and can significantly reduce air conditioning costs during the scorching summer months.

• UV Protection: Window tinting can block up to 99% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, helping to protect occupants' skin and preventing fading of interior materials like upholstery and dashboards

• Privacy and Security: Tinted windows offer greater privacy by restricting visibility from the outside, which can be particularly beneficial for vehicles and buildings. Additionally, window film can make glass more shatter-resistant, providing extra security.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Many people in Alabama choose window tinting not just for its functional benefits but also to elevate the style of their vehicles or buildings, contributing to a sleek and modern appearance.

• Glare Reduction: The bright Alabama sun can create considerable glare, but window tinting helps mitigate this issue, improving visibility and driving comfort for those on the road.

Window tinting serves multiple essential purposes. It effectively reduces heat, keeping interiors cooler and lowering air conditioning costs in Tuscaloosa's sweltering summers. It also offers UV protection, blocking up to 99% of harmful rays, safeguarding occupants' skin and preventing interior fading. Additionally, tinted windows provide enhanced privacy and security by restricting outside visibility and reinforcing glass strength. Beyond its functional benefits, window tinting enhances the aesthetic appeal of vehicles and buildings, contributing to a stylish, modern look. Lastly, it reduces glare from the bright sun, improving visibility and driving comfort.

What types of Window Tint do you offer?

• Ceramic Tint: This type of film is made from advanced ceramic materials that provide superior heat rejection without affecting visibility. Ceramic tints are non-metallic, which prevents signal interference for devices like GPS and mobile phones. They also block UV rays effectively and are less likely to fade over time, making them a durable option for vehicles and buildings.

• Carbon Film: Carbon film contains carbon particles that effectively block infrared light, which helps in reducing heat inside the vehicle or building. This type of tint offers a matte finish that doesn’t fade, provides excellent UV protection, and reduces glare. Additionally, carbon film does not contain metallic components, making it ideal for users concerned about electronic signal interference.

Carbon and ceramic tints are the top choices for window films. Carbon films block infrared light, providing excellent heat reduction and UV protection while offering a stylish matte finish. Ceramic tints excel in heat rejection without compromising visibility and prevent signal interference.

At our establishment, we exclusively offer carbon and ceramic tint films, ensuring our customers receive high-quality products that enhance comfort and style while providing lasting protection against Tuscaloosa, Alabama's harsh sun.