Alabama Windshield Mounting Laws (2026 Guide)
Alabama regulates windshield-mounted devices through two statutes that create an important tension. The older equipment law (Ala. Code 32-5-215) broadly prohibits nontransparent material on the windshield that obstructs the driver's view. The newer hands-free law (Section 32-5A-350.1), enforced since June 14, 2024, explicitly allows devices mounted on the windshield for hands-free use.
Alabama Windshield Obstruction Law
Ala. Code 32-5-215 provides that no person shall drive any motor vehicle with "any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material" on the windshield, side windows, or rear windows that obstructs the driver's clear view of the highway.
The statute exempts manufactured tinting and certificates, decals, or other papers required by law to be displayed.
GPS and Phone Mounts
Alabama's hands-free law (32-5A-350.1) specifically allows devices "mounted to the vehicle, including the windshield, dashboard, or center console" for hands-free use, provided the mount "does not create an unsafe obstruction of the person's view of the road."
This creates a practical safe harbor for phone and GPS mounts on the windshield. The safest placement is the dashboard or a low-profile position that does not block forward visibility.
Dashcam Rules
Dashcams are legal in Alabama. The hands-free law explicitly exempts "continuous recording devices" including dashcams and backup cameras from its distracted driving provisions. Mount the dashcam behind the rearview mirror or on the dashboard for the most legally secure placement.
Windshield Tinting
Under Ala. Code 32-5C-2:
- Only the uppermost 6 inches of the windshield may have tinting (transparent material, not red or amber)
- Side and rear windows must allow at least 32% light transmission
- A 7-inch square in the lower corner of the front or rear windshield may contain signs, stickers, or other matter
- Medical exemptions are available through ALEA for qualifying conditions
Exemptions
| Exemption | Authority |
|---|---|
| Certificates, decals, papers required by law | 32-5-215(e) |
| Manufactured/factory tinting | 32-5-215(e) |
| Hands-free device mounts (windshield, dashboard, console) | 32-5A-350.1 |
| Continuous recording devices (dashcams) | 32-5A-350.1 |
| 7-inch square sticker area in lower windshield corner | 32-5C-3 |
| Transparent tint on uppermost 6 inches | 32-5C-3 |
| Law enforcement vehicles | 32-5C-3 |
| Medical exemption for tinting | 32-5C-4 |
Penalties
| Offense | Maximum Fine | Maximum Jail |
|---|---|---|
| 1st offense (within 1 year) | $100 | 10 days |
| 2nd offense (within 1 year) | $200 | 30 days |
| 3rd+ offense (within 1 year) | $500 | 3 months |
An additional $50 surcharge is assessed on all fines, with $25 going to the Traffic Safety Trust Fund.
Alabama Hands-Free Law (Enforced Since June 2024)
Alabama's hands-free law took full effect on June 14, 2024. Key points:
- Drivers cannot physically hold a phone while driving (primary enforcement)
- Hands-free calls via Bluetooth, speakerphone, or voice activation are permitted
- Devices must be mounted or used without physical holding
- Penalties: $50 (1st offense), $100 (2nd), $150 (3rd+ within 24 months)
More Alabama Laws
Sources and References
- Ala. Code 32-5-215 - Windshields Must Be Unobstructed(law.justia.com)
- Ala. Code 32-5A-350.1 - Hands-Free Law(law.justia.com)
- Alabama Tinting Regulations - ALEA(alea.gov).gov
- Drive Safe Alabama - Hands-Free Law(drivesafealabama.org)