In California, window tinting has become a trend in people. They love the trendy and modern looks of their cars. That’s why using tints and stickers has become very popular and common. However, the tint laws for vehicles in California are very stringent and are observed very strictly. Moreover, the state has legislated rules for vehicle tints; no one can violate them. This blog will provide details about the legal window tint percentage in California. Keep reading to learn about the tint laws, percentages, and medical exemptions for drivers and vehicles.
Window tint laws in California
Window tint rules were enacted in 1999 in California and will be revised in 2024. According to this law, the tint for the windscreen should only cover 4 inches from the top. Exceeding this limit can take you to the legal difficulties. Furthermore, the front-side window is allowed only 70% of VLT (visible light transmission). Dark tints for the front side window are not legal and can be fined. However, the backside windows and rear windshield have exemptions. You can use any level of darkness and colors for passenger seats.
What is the legal window tint percentage in California?
In California, the percentage for window tints differs for windscreen, front, back, and rear windshields. However, a tint installer can guide you properly regarding allowed and legal percentages. Moreover, if you are considering installing the window tints for your vehicle, read the lines below before installing it.
Windscreen:
The window tint laws allow only a four-inch tint or film for the front windscreen. From the top, you can cover only the described length of your screen.
Front-side window:
The driver’s side window can be covered with a tint of 88- 70% VLT. That means the sunlight must pass through the front window, and the darkness should be a maximum of 30% VLT.
Backside window:
You can get flexibility in the tints for the backside window. You can use any level of dark tint and color for the passenger seat windows.
Rear windshield:
A rear windshield is also allowed with any level of tint, darkness, and colors. You can use any color or darkness for the rear windshield.
Reflecting obstacles
According to California’s laws, you cannot use any reflecting objects or obstacles on your windscreen or front-side windows. Your glass reflection should be an average of the window. You can get an exemption letter if you are allergic or have a problem with direct sunlight and UV rays. Without this letter, you cannot drive on the road with any reflecting obstacles or dark tints.
Prohibited colors for tint in California
In California, window tint laws banned these specific colors for tinting. You cannot use
- Red
- Blue
- Ombre
- Dark shade of any other color.
These restrictions are for the windscreen and the front side window. However, the back side window and rear windshield have exemptions.
Is 35% tint legal in California?
Technically, 35% window tint is only permitted on a vehicle’s rear windows. The state regulation limits window tinting to no more than 30% for the vehicle’s front windows. The front windows must allow for 70% light transmission; otherwise, the car owner will face a fine and must pay to adjust the tint.
What is the ideal VLT for a car?
The ideal VLT for a car is 50% Tint. Windows that block half of the incoming light are good for preventing UV radiation. They protect car interiors and passengers’ skin from sun damage while reducing visibility from lights outside the vehicle. With 50% VLT, a too-dark lens will not affect your vision.
Factory-manufactured cars’ window tint percentage
When vehicles come with a factory tint, it usually ranges between 15% and 20%. The offered darkest tint is 5%, and these tinted car windows are completely opaque. In most states, 5% tinting is banned, including California. It is most typically seen on the back windows of private vehicles and limousines. Although a 20% tint is darker and gives your automobile a more fashionable style, when it comes to driver, passenger, and pedestrian safety, 35% is the best option. 35% film provides qualities that protect you and the interior of your vehicle from harmful UV radiation.
What does the VLT Percentage Mean?
The lower the VLT percentage, the less light passes through the lens. The higher the proportion, the more light passes through. If it’s a bright, sunny day, use VLT percentages of 08-18% (full sun) or 03-07% (severe sunlight).
The recommended VLT for all conditions is typically about thirty percent, as it provides adequate sun protection without being excessively dark on low-light days.
Medical exemptions for window tint
If any person/driver suffers from UV rays and skin problems, he can get an exemption for his vehicle. The medical exemption means using dark tint or more than 4 inches for the windscreen without paying a fine. However, to get this exemption, you must follow the pattern. California drivers can submit a signed paper or statement from a certified dermatologist, optometrist, physician, or surgeon showing that they require window tint to protect themselves from ultraviolet rays due to a significant medical condition.
Drivers typically submit the letter or document with their window tint exemption application to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. They are granted permission to apply window tint or another device to avoid the California state law on window tinting. According to California tint law changes for 2017, if you have a doctor’s note, you will be entitled to additional window tints for your vehicle. This still applies to laws passed in 2024.
Finishing lines
In conclusion, we got a satisfactory answer: What is California’s legal window tint percentage? Window tint laws, exemptions, and film colors are discussed here in detail. Automobile drivers can get an exemption only if they face any severe illness from the UV rays. However, private cars and limousines can have dark tints. Moreover, commercial and non-commercial vehicles can use dark tints only on the rear windshield and back windows to comfort passengers. Before installing the tints on your car, contact a certified installer, and don’t forget to get a certificate. He will give you a better idea of California’s exact legal percentage for window tints.