Back in 1995, Colorado lawmakers laid out the guidelines for car window tinting, and they’ve remained in place ever since. If you’re a car owner in the state, you’ll want to pay close attention to the rules around window tinting, including the level of darkness and reflectivity that’s permitted. But that’s not all—there are other important regulations to keep in mind, too. By taking the time to familiarize yourself with these guidelines, you can avoid getting hit with hefty fines down the road. I’ve gathered all the information you need to know about car window tinting in Colorado, so read on to stay in the know!
Auto window tinting requires you to consider two critical factors: Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Visible Light Reflection (VLR). In this discussion, I’ll explain both concepts, starting with VLT.
1. Window Tint Darkness in Colorado (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 diverge anywhere from 0% to 100%. The higher the percentage, the more visible light is transmitted through the film.
Every state has its own unique set of guidelines, and Colorado is no exception. In fact, the amount of light that’s allowed to pass through tinted glass in Colorado can differ not only from state to state, but also between different types of vehicles. It’s important to note that passenger vehicles and multi-purpose vehicles may have different tinting requirements. That’s why it’s crucial to thoroughly review the tinting laws in Colorado to ensure you’re in compliance. By doing so, you can avoid any potential legal issues down the line. So take the time to educate yourself on Colorado’s tinting laws—it’s well worth the effort!
Tint darkness laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Colorado:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective 70% tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 27% tint darkness.
Back Side windows: You can use up to 27% darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use up to 27% darkness for rear windows.
Tint darkness laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and vans) in Colorado:
Windshield: You can use a non-reflective 70% tint on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
Front Side windows: You can use up to 27% tint darkness.
Back Side windows: You can use up to 27% tint darkness for backside windows.
Rear Window: You can use up to 27% tint darkness for rear windows.
2. Window Tint Reflection in Colorado (VLR)
Window Tint Reflection or Visible light reflection (VLR) is the amount of light that a window film reflects. In Colorado, the amount of visible light reflection (VLR) that’s allowed on tinted car windows is measured in percentages, ranging from 0% to 100%. A lower VLR percentage shows that less visible light is being reflected into the car, which can cause more sunlight being blocked.
It’s important to note that Colorado’s window tinting laws not only regulate the level of darkness of the tint, but also the amount of window reflection that’s permitted. This means that you’ll need to pay close attention to both factors when selecting and installing tint on your vehicle’s windows.
By familiarizing yourself with the VLR regulations in Colorado, you can ensure that your window tinting complies with state law. So be sure to do your research before getting started on any tinting project!
Tint reflection laws for passenger vehicles (sedans) in Colorado:
Front Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the front side windows.
Back Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the back side windows as well.
Tint reflection laws for multi-purpose vehicles (SUVs and Vans) in Colorado:
Front Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the front side windows
Back Side windows: You can’t use any metallic or mirrored appearance on the back side windows as well.
Other Colorado Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
If you’re a car owner in Colorado looking to tint your windows, it’s important to know that the state has established several strict rules and regulations surrounding this process. While maintaining a specific percentage of darkness and glare on each window is certainly a key consideration, there are several other guidelines you’ll need to follow as well. These include:
Side Mirrors: You require a dual side mirror on your vehicle if your rear window is tinted.
Restricted Colors: In Colorado, there are some legal limitations concerning the color of the tints as well. You can’t use red and amber color. However, you can use green, gray, bronze, and neutral smoke.
Certificates: In Colorado, certification is not required for the film used to tint cars by manufacturers.
Stickers: As per the Colorado regulations, upon completing the window tinting process, you are not required to display any stickers to confirm compliance. However, they recommend it to identify tinting.
Medical Exceptions: In Colorado, there are no medical exemptions that would allow for the use of special tint on your car windows.
Penalties For Non-Compliance: If the car window tinting is not done correctly in Colorado, you may face a Class B traffic infraction or a fine of up to $500 to $5,000.
Conclusion
The 2023 Colorado window tint law declares that the tint on the windshield must be non-reflective with 70% VLT as long as it only covers the top 4 inches. The windows on the front side of the vehicle must allow at least 27% of light to pass through. Similarly, the back side windows and rear window must permit a minimum of 27% of light to enter.
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 Colorado may change at any time. Therefore, please contact a local lawyer licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.