Alabama tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 32% |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | 32% |
| Rear window | 32% |
| Windshield | Top 6 inches only |
| Reflectivity | 20% max |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | SUVs and vans: windows behind the driver may be darker, with mirrors on both sides |
Percentages are the minimum visible light transmission with the film installed, including the factory glass. A lower number means darker tint.
Is 5%, 20%, 35% or 50% tint legal in Alabama?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in Alabama. Factory glass blocks some light, so a film reads darker once it's installed.
| Film rating | Front side windows | Back side windows | Rear window |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 15% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 20% | Not legal | Not legal | Not legal |
| 35% | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed | Likely too dark once installed |
| 50% | Legal | Legal | Legal |
| 70% | Legal | Legal | Legal |
'Likely too dark once installed' means the film rating meets the limit, but on typical factory glass the combined reading usually falls under it. Meter the window to be sure.
Choosing a film that stays legal
Assume factory side glass passes about 80% of light.
- Front side windows: 40% film or lighter
- Back side windows: 40% film or lighter
- Rear window: 40% film or lighter
Factory privacy glass on many SUVs already reads well under 30%, so any film added over it will read darker still. Always meter after the install.
Fines and penalties
Alabama's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.
Medical exemptions
Apply to the Alabama Department of Public Safety with a physician's certification. The department can attach conditions to the exemption.
Meter tolerance
Alabama allows a tolerance of 3% when officers meter a window. A tolerance covers meter error. It isn't extra room to go darker.
For Alabama tint shops
Every compliant install needs a visible compliance sticker, applied by the tint dealer.
The law
Alabama's tint rules are set by Ala. Code § 32-5C-2. Read the source
This page is a reference for drivers and installers, not legal advice. Enforcement can vary by city and county.
Frequently asked questions
How dark can you legally tint your windows in Alabama?
On a sedan, front side windows: 32%. Back side windows: 32%. Rear window: 32%.
Is 20% tint legal in Alabama?
Front: Not legal. Back: Not legal. Rear: Not legal. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in Alabama?
Front: Likely too dark once installed. Back: Likely too dark once installed. Rear: Likely too dark once installed. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in Alabama?
Top 6 inches only
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in Alabama?
SUVs and vans: windows behind the driver may be darker, with mirrors on both sides
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in Alabama?
Apply to the Alabama Department of Public Safety with a physician's certification. The department can attach conditions to the exemption.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: