Alaska window tinting laws have been in place since 1994. In Alaska, tinted windows are highly regulated, and must allow much more light into the vehicle than in other states. To ensure that your window tints are compliant with the laws and regulations, check the permitted tint VLT and restrictions in our handy guide here!
Alaska State Automotive Window Tinting Rules
How dark can window tint be in Alaska?
Tint VLT: Windshield: A non reflective tint is permitted only on the top 5 inches of the windshield.
Tint VLT: Front Side Windows: These must allow 70% or more light inside the vehicle.
Tint VLT: Back Side Windows: These must allow 40% or more light inside the vehicle.
Tint VLT: Rear Window: This must allow 40% or more of light inside the vehicle.
There is however a 3% window tint variance allowed.
How reflective can window tint be in Alaska?
Tint Reflection: Front Side Windows: Tints cannot be metallic or mirrored in appearance.
Tint Reflection: Rear Side Windows: Tints cannot be metallic or mirrored in appearance.
Other Alaska automotive window tinting rules & regulations:
There are other restrictions when it comes to window tinting in the state of Alaska.
Restricted Colors: Permitted window tint colors are neutral smoke, green, gray and bronze.
Side Mirrors: There are no restrictions on the side mirrors in Alaska.
Certificate Requirements: Manufacturers of film are not required to certify the film they sell in the state of Alaska.
Sticker Requirements: There are no stickers required in Alaska to verify that the tint is legal.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Penalty of up to $300, but added charge of $10 if not altered or removed within a certain time frame.
Alaska Tint Law References
Alaska Statutes Title 1 Chapter 4 Sec. 223 – Tinted Vehicle Windows: http://www.akleg.gov/basis/aac.asp#13.04.223
Traffic, Vehicle Equipment FAQ- Tinted Windows at Municipality of Anchorage: https://www.muni.org/Departments/police1/pages/default.aspx
Exterior Window VLT Tint
How Much Does Car Window Tinting Cost In Alaska State?
Depending on where you choose to get your windows tinted, the costs may vary. However, for a four-door sedan-type vehicle, the average cost of window tinting in Alaska is around $290-$350. This factors in the cost of materials, and of the application to the windows.
Keep in mind that costs can increase depending on the vehicle, the type of film, the color or specific performance of the tint. The cost of tinting can be much more expensive if you have a luxury vehicle, or if you want metallic tints, ceramic films and high-quality window tints.
How Does Car Window Tinting Work?
Window tinting film uses a specific type of polyester-based film that allows only certain types of sun rays to come through into your vehicle. The film then reflects or absorbs the harmful rays so that they don’t penetrate the glass and cause harm to you, your family, or the interior of your car.
The amount of metal, dye, or ceramic within the film will determine how much light is blocked, which is why there are different levels of tint that you can purchase. The lower the VLT percentage, the less light is allowed into your vehicle.
What Is The Best DIY 50% Tinting Product?
50% window tints are among the most popular and therefore the market is full of high-quality options. However, we have found that the MKBROTHER 50% VLT Professional Window Tint is one of the best you can buy.
Why Is This The Best?
This tint from MKBROTHER is offered in seven different sizes, but they all have the same height of 24 inches. This makes it easier for you to cut out the shapes of your windows without wasting a lot of your film. We find this feature incredibly beneficial for beginners who have never added a window tint to their vehicles before.
The film is 1.5 millimeters thick, made of a premium quality film that is resistant to scratches, peeling, and bubbling. However, the thickness won’t compromise your window mechanisms, meaning that you can still use them effortlessly without damaging your window tint.
You’ll find that this tint blocks 50% of light and heat from getting into your car. However, up to 99% of UV rays are blocked, keeping you and your car safe from even the brightest of days.
How To Apply To Your Car
MKBROTHER offers both instructions on how to apply this film to your windows, as well as illustrations to make it an even simpler process.
Firstly, you’ll need to clean your window as well as you can with a high-quality glass cleaner. Cut the tint to the shape of your window with one inch of allowance all the way around its perimeter. You can also cut the shapes before you begin the application process if you’d prefer.
Apply the adhesive tape to each side of one corner of the tint and pull them apart. This will separate the clear liner backing from your film.
Spray the adhesive side with the spray solution as well as the inside of the window. Place the film onto the window and remove any bubbles with a flat tool, such as a squeegee. Now trim the edges of the film and you’re done with the first window!
- Pros & Cons Of DIY vs Professional Fitting
Pros of DIY fitting
- Ability to choose an option to fit your personal situation and budget
- You can purchase pre-cut kits which are easier for DIY installers to use
- Complete the job to your satisfaction
Cons of DIY fitting
- Quite difficult for beginners
- DIY car modifications are illegal in some states
Pros of professional fitting
- More experience from technicians
- Likely to offer warranties and guarantees
- It’s definitely legal and you won’t get into trouble
Cons of professional fitting
- Often comes at a higher cost
- Often is finished to a higher quality
Medical Exemption
In some states, there may be medical exemptions where you are required to carry proof of your medical condition, and allowance for darker windows. In Alaska, you can be medically exempt if you are the frequent driver or passenger of a vehicle. However, you must have proof from a licensed physician of your medical condition, and this must be renewed annually by a physician in order for you to be legally exempt.