California Window Tint Law, Simplified
What's legal on each window of a passenger car in California — in plain English. We walk every customer through this before we start.
Tint is allowed on the top 4 inches (sun strip). Clear UV and heat-rejecting film is a popular option for the rest.
Must let in at least 70% of light. Light ceramic film is the way to cut heat here.
Any darkness allowed.
Any darkness allowed, as long as the car has dual side mirrors.
What "70%" means
Tint is measured in VLT — visible light transmission. 70% VLT means 70% of light passes through. Remember that factory glass is not perfectly clear, so the film and the glass together are what count. That's why front-window film for California is very light.
Why people still tint the front windows
The front windows are right next to you, and on a sunny drive they let in a lot of heat on your arm and face. A light ceramic film can cut heat and UV there without a dark look. We'll explain your options and you decide what goes on your car.
Reflective film
California also limits how reflective window film can be. The carbon and ceramic films we use are non-reflective and have a clean, factory-like finish.
Important
This page is a general summary, not legal advice. Laws can change, and enforcement is up to law enforcement and the courts. If you have a medical condition that requires darker tint, ask your doctor about a California exemption.
Tint law questions
How dark can front windows be in California?
Front side windows must let in at least 70% of light. Light ceramic film is a common way to cut heat on front windows.
Can rear windows be 5% in California?
Rear side windows and the back window can be any darkness, as long as the vehicle has dual side mirrors for the back window.
Can I tint my windshield in California?
Tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield. Clear UV and heat-rejecting film is a popular choice for the rest.
Are there medical exemptions?
Yes. California allows certain exemptions with documentation from a physician for people with light-sensitive conditions.