I don't know about AZ, but windshield tinting is usually illegal in TX, except (I believe) for certain newer methods of tinting that are designed to filter only IR frequencies. But I think those newer forms are also fairly rare. In any case, I definitely wouldn't assume the windshield was tinted.
Brief googling indicates that windshield tinting, beyond a small strip at the top, in both Arizona and Texas is illegal without medical exemption.
"Transparent material that is installed, affixed or applied to the topmost portion of the windshield if:
(a) The bottom edge of the material is at least twenty-nine inches above the undepressed driver's seat when measured from a point five inches in front of the bottom of the backrest with the driver's seat in its rearmost and lowermost position with the vehicle on a level surface.
(b) The material is not red or amber in color."[0]
and
"Windshields
Sunscreening devices must be applied above the AS-1 line. If there is no AS-1 line, sunscreening devices must end five inches below the top of the windshield.
Sunscreening devices may not be red, amber, or blue in color.
Sunscreening devices, when measured in combination with the original glass, must have a light transmittance value of 25% or more.
Sunscreening devices, when measured in combination with the original glass, must have a luminous reflectance value of 25% or less.
A clear (un-tinted) UV film is allowed anywhere on the front windshield without a medical exemption being required."[1]
You're not making the distinction between "window tinting" and "windSHIELD tinting".
Big difference. I'm not aware of anywhere that it's legal to tint your windshield below the top 4-5 inches. (Not saying it isn't but it certainly isn't in AZ or TX)
> I'm not aware of anywhere that it's legal to tint your windshield below the top 4-5 inches.
In my country, you can put a tinted film on the whole windshield, as long as it allows at least 75% of the light to pass (the side and rear windows can be much darker: the film must allow at least 28% of the light). They're a common sight.