Tint Laws in California: Everything You Need to Know
Discover the legal window tint in California
Although window tinting is a popular modification for vehicles, it’s important to understand the tint laws in your state to avoid any legal issues.
In California, there are specific regulations regarding window tinting that all vehicle owners must adhere to. For the front windshield, you can only tint the top four inches. The front side windows must have a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) of at least 70%, and the rear side windows and rear window can be any darkness.
Let’s take a closer look at the tint laws in California and answer some frequently asked questions.
What Does VLT Mean According to California State Law?
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, refers to the amount of light that is allowed to pass through the window tint film. In California, the law requires that the front side windows allow more light to pass through compared to the rear side windows and the rear window. The VLT percentage determines the darkness of the tint, with a lower percentage indicating a darker tint.
So, What is The Legal Tint in California
In California, window tint regulations are enforced by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and other law enforcement agencies. The state has specific guidelines on the permissible levels of window tint darkness and reflectivity for various types of vehicles.
To ensure compliance with the law, it’s crucial for vehicle owners to be aware of these regulations. Let’s delve into the specific tint regulations for different types of vehicles in California.
Tint Laws for Passenger Car and Station Wagons in California
For passenger cars and station wagons, the front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through. This means that the tint applied to these windows cannot be darker than 70% VLT.
In California, the tint laws for passenger cars and station wagons are as follows:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top four inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Tinting is allowed, but it must allow at least 70% of light to pass through. In other words, only a maximum of 30% tint darkness is permitted.
- Back Side Windows: Tinting is allowed, and there are no restrictions on the darkness of the tint.
- Rear Window: Tinting is allowed, and there are no restrictions on the darkness of the tint.
Tint Laws for Multi-Purpose Passenger and Recreational Vehicles in California
Multi-purpose passenger vehicles and recreational vehicles have slightly different tint laws compared to passenger cars. The front side windows of these vehicles must also allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
The window tint laws for multi-purpose passenger (MPV) and recreational vehicles (RV) in California are as follows:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer’s AS-1 line or the top 4 inches, whichever is higher. Tinting the entire windshield is not permitted.
- Front Side Windows: Window tinting on the front side windows is allowed only if the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage is 32% or higher, meaning the tint cannot be darker than 32%.
- Rear Side Windows: Tinting is allowed on the rear side windows, and the VLT percentage must be 32% or higher, ensuring the tint is not excessively dark.
- Rear Window: You can tint the rear window as long as the VLT percentage is 32% or higher, ensuring sufficient visibility from the rear of the vehicle.
Window Tint Reflection in California - CA Window Tint Law 2023
In California, additional window tint regulations include guidelines on window tint reflection. Properly applying window tint is crucial to avoid any legal issues. Here are the tint reflection rules for both sedans and SUVs/Vans in California as of 2023.
Tint Reflection for Sedans
- Front-side windows: You are not allowed to use more than 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows of sedans.
Backside windows: Similar to the front-side windows, you must not exceed 35% reflective tint on the back-side windows of sedans.
Tint Reflection for SUV and Vans
- Front-side windows: For SUVs and Vans in California, the law also restricts the use of more than 35% reflective tint on the front-side windows.
Backside windows: Similarly, you are not permitted to use more than 35% reflective tint on the backside windows of SUVs and Vans.
What Are the Window Tint Reflection Laws in California?
In addition to VLT regulations, California also has laws regarding window tint reflection. The window tint reflection laws in California state that the tint on your vehicle’s windows must not be more reflective than a standard window. Meaning, the tint cannot reflect more than 35% of the light that hits it.
The law applies to all types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and RVs. It also applies to the front windshield, side windows, and rear windows.
However, there are a few exceptions to the window tint reflection law. For example, you are allowed to have a darker tint on your rear window if you have dual side mirrors. You are also allowed to have a darker tint on your front windshield if it is only tinted in the top 4 inches.
Other Window Tint Laws and Regulations of California You Need to Know
Apart from VLT and reflection laws, there are a few other regulations regarding window tinting in California. In California, additional window tint regulations include:
- Side Mirrors: If the rear window is tinted, dual side mirrors are required on both sides of the vehicle.
- Stickers: While California doesn’t have specific sticker regulations for tinted windows, avoid placing stickers that obstruct the driver’s view, particularly on the front windshield or front side windows.
- Restricted Colors: There are no color restrictions for window tint in California, giving you the freedom to choose any color you prefer.
- Certificates: California does not require certificates for vehicle window tint compliance.
- Penalties: Window tint violation penalties in California include a fix-it ticket requiring tint removal or modification. The first and second offenses result in a $25 fine, and subsequent offenses lead to a $197 fine. No points are added to the driving record for tint violations.
Medical Exemption: California allows medical exemptions for window tint rules. To qualify, consult a physician for a diagnosis and recommendation. Submit a Medical Exemption Certificate (MEC) to the DMV for approval. If granted, you’ll receive a sticker indicating the exemption.
Tint Laws in California- FAQ’s
Is 5% tint legal in California?
No, a 5% tint is not legal in California. The front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
Is 20% tint legal in California?
No, 20% tint is not legal in California for the front side windows. The tint must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
Is 35% tint legal in California?
Yes, 35% tint is legal in California for the rear side windows and the rear window. However, the front side windows must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
Is 50% tint legal in California?
Yes, 50% tint is legal in California for the rear side windows and the rear window. The front side windows must still allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
Is 75% tint legal in California?
Yes, 75% tint is legal in California for the rear side windows and the rear window. The front side windows must still allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
What is the legal window tint in California?
The legal window tint in California is any darkness for the rear side windows and the rear window, as long as the front side windows allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
What is the darkest legal tint in California?
The darkest legal tint in California is any darkness for the rear side windows and the rear window, as long as the front side windows allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
How much is a tint ticket in California?
The fines for a tint ticket in California can range from $25 to $197, depending on the violation.
Most Important Information about Car Window Tinting
Final Words
Understanding the tint laws in California is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary penalties. It’s always recommended to consult the specific regulations and seek professional advice before applying window tint to your vehicle.
Remember, adhering to these laws not only ensures your safety but also helps maintain the overall safety of the roads for everyone.