Window tinting laws in California have been in place since 1999. To ensure compliance with these regulations, it’s important to have all the information and documentation about your vehicle’s window tint, including the level of darkness and reflectiveness allowed in the state. However, it’s important to note that there are additional rules and regulations related to car window tinting in CA, which should be carefully reviewed to avoid any potential fines. To ensure a smooth ride, take the time to read up on these guidelines below.
If you’re planning to get your car windows tinted, understanding TWO CRITICAL concepts, Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR) is essential. In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in CA (VLT)
Window Tint Darkness or Visible light transmission (VLT) is a measure of the amount of light that passes through a film. It’s measured in percentages and can differ anything from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has set its own legal limitations. Therefore, the amount of light allowed to pass through tinted car windows in California may differ from other states and can vary depending on whether it’s a passenger vehicle or multi-purpose vehicle. That’s why it’s essential to thoroughly review California’s specific laws and regulations on car window tinting to avoid any potential legal issues. Don’t take any chances and make sure you understand the rules and restrictions before hitting the road.
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in California:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 88% tint darkness with aftermarket film & up to 70% tint darkness if combined with factory-tinted windows.
Back Side windows: You can use any darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in California:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 88% tint darkness with aftermarket film & up to 70% tint darkness if combined with factory-tinted windows.
Back Side windows: You can use any darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use any darkness for rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in CA (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. The percentage of visible light reflected (VLR) by a car’s window tint can range from 0% to 100%, with lower VLR percentages showing less visible light reflected into the vehicle and more sunlight being blocked. In California, specific regulations regarding VLR percentages are in place, making it crucial to pay close attention to this aspect when selecting and installing window tints. Be sure to keep these guidelines in mind to avoid any potential fines or legal issues related to car window tinting.
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in California:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a passenger vehicle must not produce more reflection than is produced by a standard window.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the back side windows of a passenger vehicle must not produce more reflection than is produced by a standard window.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in California:
Front Side windows: Window tint installed on the front side windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not produce more reflection than is produced by a standard window.
Back Side windows: Window tint installed on the backside windows of a multipurpose vehicle must not produce more reflection than is produced by a standard window.
Other CA Window Tinting Rules and Regulations:
For car window tinting, California has strict rules and regulations in place that must be followed to avoid legal issues. Besides adhering to specific percentages for darkness and glare on each window, there are other important guidelines to keep in mind. Here are a few additional regulations that you’ll need to follow:
Side Mirrors: You require a dual side mirror on your vehicle if your rear window is tinted.
Restricted Colors: In California, there are some legal limitations concerning the color of the tints as well. You cannot use blue, amber, or red as your window tint. Also, you must use a colorless side mirror.
Certificates: Manufacturers of the film must certify the film they sell in the California state. The address and the name must clearly be seen on that certificate. Drivers must be able to show the certificate when asked, so it is sensible to keep it with them at all times.
Stickers: California State law also requires tint film installation companies must also give the vehicle’s owner a sticker or certificate with their name and address.
Medical Exceptions: CA state law permits medical exemptions for lower tint on all windows for individuals with certain clinical necessities. As required by the medical exemption law in CA, the driver of a vehicle with darker tinted windows must not only have the document issued by the window tint installer but also a clinical note from the specialist doctor providing details of the special needs.
Penalties For Non-Compliance: You will get the first warning of ‘fix-it ticket’ if the coloring has been done wrong. The second time you will be fined up to $25. For the third time, if you are stopped for violating the car window tint law in California, they can charge you up to $197.
Conclusion
The 2023 California window tint law declares that the front windshield and front side windows must have a visible light transmission (VLT) of at least 70%. There are no restrictions on the darkness of the tint on the rear and back side windows. However, if the rear window of a vehicle is tinted, it must be equipped with dual side mirrors.
Disclaimer
The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice or as a substitute for the advice of an attorney. No user of this site, or any other person or entity that may have received this information, shall rely upon the information contained as creating an attorney-client relationship between such user and Car Glass Advisor. The rules and regulations pertaining to car window tint in California may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.
California Tint Law References:
California Tint Law Medical Exemption Info:
Assembly Bill no. 1303 (September 2017) – amended medical exemptions