Complete Guide to California Tint Laws

Know Your California Tinting Laws

The law regulating automobile window tint in California was established in 1999. However, the law has undergone several modifications but in the end drivers who want to use tints are required to use a specific shade of darkness, color, and positioning based on your type of windows and other factors as well. 

One of such laws is that you can only use a four-inch strip of tint such that about 70% of light can penetrate those strips. This is just one of the laws but there are many other things you need to know about the California Window Tint Law.

California Tint Law

The state of California has a specific requirement for visible light transmission but that depends on the window frame of your car. The California tint law states that you shouldn’t use more than a four-inch strip on your car window. However, that tint must be non-reflective due to a recent update of the law passed in 2022.

There may be stricter rules for front-side windows depending on the nature of the tint, but they must be at least 70% VLT rated. The rear windows are not subjected to the same laws as the front windows which means you can any shade of darkness for your rear windows. The most regulated part of your car windows are the front windows and the windshields and they have certain visible light transmission ratings. 

Window Tint Colors as Permitted By The California State Law

The visible light transmission ratings for rear side windows don’t matter so you’re free to use any level of tint. However, if you tint your rear windows, you will be required to install side mirror on your vehicle to comply with the California state law. 

For the windows in the front of your car, truck, or van, VLT is a major concern. Unfortunately, there can be a lot of subjective judgment when it comes to reflectivity. Your front windshield cannot be tinted in such a way that it produces more reflection, which is visible through an ordinary, untreated window.

A patrol police or highway officer might interpret this law how they deem fit so you can receive a ticket for such action or not. 

window tint

No Freedom of Color Choice

The state of California states that you cannot use any tint that changes the natural color of your windows. So no tint color altering the natural color of your window is allowed. 

Many car owners may not like this but it’s for their good as you’ll be able to see traffic warning indicators clearly without any excuse that may lead to traffic violations. You can get all the concrete information you need regarding tint laws when you visit Monumental workx.

Conclusion

If you don’t comply with California Tint Laws, you might end up getting stopped on your way. If you’re lucky, you might be let off with a warning but if you’re not, you will get a low-cost ticket. Contact Monumental Workx Today to schedule your window tinting! Call us at (858) 291-8200!

 

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