California Tint Law

California Tint Law Enacted: 1993

We have made every effort to provide you with accurate and up to date information regarding California window tint law. Please refer to you local authority for current California window tint law enforcement policies, including rules and regulations, as the final authority on California window tint law in your area.

California Tint Law

The darkness of tint is measured by (VLT%) Visible Light Transmission percentage. In California window tint law, this percentage refers to percentage of visible light allowed to pass through the combination of film and the factory tint of the window. Here is what is allowed in California window tint law:

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Windshield Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
Front Side Windows Must allow more than a total of 70% light in. Transmission through glass.
Back Side Windows Any VLT can be applied legally on this window.
Rear Window Any VLT can be applied legally on this window.

HOW REFLECTIVE CAN THE TINT BE ON AUTO WINDOWS ACCORDING TO CALIFORNIA WINDOW TINT LAW?

Tinting film can contain metallic elements (silver mirror look) that help to reflect incoming light and reject the glare and heat generated by visible light.

Front Side Windows Must not increase reflectivity.
Back Side Windows Must not increase reflectivity.

OTHER CALIFORNIA WINDOW TINT LAW RULES AND REGULATIONS

Restricted Colors The tint colors of RED AMBER BLUE are not allowed by state law.
Side Mirrors Dual side mirrors are required if back window is tinted.
Certificate Requirements Manufacturers of film do NOT need to certify the film they sell in the state.
Sticker Requirements No sticker to identify legal tinting is required.
Medical Exemption California window tint law does NOT allow medical exemptions for special tint use.

These are the current California Window Tint Laws. Find Window Tint Laws for other states by clicking here.