In terms of car accessories, window tinting is something many California drivers like to have done. In addition to making your car look cool, it has many uses. For example, it protects the interior from sun damage and increase privacy.
But before you rush off to have your car windows covered in darkened glass, there are a few important laws and regulations that need to be spelled out. Window-tinting rules California sets its own. This article will examine California’s window tinting laws, especially concerning the allowable darkness for windows and other key aspects.
Window Tint Darkness in California
For car accessories, window tinting is popular among California’s residents. Besides giving your car a cool, sleek appearance, it affords you several advantages. It prevents the interior of your vehicle from being fried by sun damage; and offers greater privacy for while driving along dark stretches on lonely roads at night.
Tinted car windows But before you have your windows tinted, there are some important laws and regulations that should be noted. Window tinting is strictly regulated in each state, and California has its own regulations. In this exclusive article we will take a look at California’s window tint legal, highlighting things like the legal shade of non-reflective and reflective tint/film, as well as other very critical regulations. The primary concern for CA vehicle tinkters is how easily drivers can see out any windows. The state has established standards for the darkness of window tint to maintain road safety.
For sedan cars, the windshield must be 4 inches non-reflective tint along top. The front side windows let through at least 70 % of light, while the back side and rear windows can have any darkness they choose.
For SUVs and vans the guidelines are exactly the same except for those on front side windows. If they’ve already been factory-tinted, then at least 70 % of light can pass through; if not, larger than normal stickers indicating that it has turned golden yellow will be used instead.
Window car Tint Reflection in California
Window car tint can also make the window surface reflective, possibly making it difficult to view other drivers on the road. According to law in California, front and rear side windows must not be more reflective than a standard window. This is done to avoid accidents or drive safely. This also goes for sedans and SUVs/vans.
Window film Certificate
Besides the restrictions on darkness and reflection, California also requires manufacturers of window tint film to certify and label their products. Drivers must also carry the manufacturer’s or installing company’s certificate with them. The certificate must mention the manufacturer’s name and address.
Medical Exemptions
All windows of cars have medical exemptions under California law for lower tint, as well. Thus people with some medical conditions that require them to avoid being exposed to sunlight may apply for a special permit allowing darker and more reflective tint on their car windows.
Other Regulations
Aside from the above-mentioned laws, there are a few more regulations to keep in mind when tinting your car windows in California :
- The driver’s visibility thus requires dual side mirrors when the rear window is tinted.
- Some colors, such as amber, red and blue are forbidden.
- In certain counties in California, the tint laws may differ slightly. Check with your local DMV or law enforcement authorities to be sure you are compliant.
- The tint laws in California came into effect in 1999 and were last revised this year (2024).
- If any outdated or incorrect information is noticed in this article, please let us know so that we can make the corrections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a medical exception to have dark tint on my car windows?
Right. If you are medically unable to expose yourself much in the sunshine, then of course you can apply for a medical exemption and go with darker tint on your car windows.
In California, can I tint my car windows red, amber or blue?
No, in California these colors are not allowed by law on car windows to ensure safe and legal driving.
If I’m pulled over for illegal window tint, what then?
In California, you will need to remove the tint if stopped for having illegal window treatment. You’ll get a ticket and be expected to comply with state law.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that the window tint laws in California are designed to protect drivers and passengers ‘safety. It is necessary to obey these laws and regulations in order to avoid fines, as well as drive safely and legally. Always check with your local DMV or police department for details on tint laws in your county and place of residence. Tint law source you can trust We try our best to keep this page up-to-date.
Sources :
- California Vehicle Code, Division 12, Chapter 4 – Windshields and Mirrors, Section 26708
- Assembly Bill no. 1303 (September 2017) – medical exemptions amendment
- State of California Website – www.ca.gov
- Tinting-laws 2024 – tint laws reference guide