California State Window Tint Law: What You Need To Know
Window tinting is a popular modification that many vehicle owners choose to do. However, it's important to be aware of the laws that regulate window tinting in California. Failure to comply with these laws can result in hefty fines and even having to remove the tint from your windows altogether.
What is Window Tinting?
Window tinting is a process that involves adding a thin film to the inside of a vehicle's windows to reduce the amount of light that passes through them. This film can be made from a variety of materials, such as polyester, metal, or ceramic. Window tinting is typically done for privacy, style, or to reduce the amount of heat that enters the vehicle.
What are California's Window Tinting Laws?
Front Windshield
California law prohibits the use of any tint on the front windshield, except for medical exemptions. If you have a medical exemption, you must have a letter from your doctor in the vehicle at all times. The tint on the front windshield must also be transparent and allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
Front Side Windows
The law allows for a tint on the front side windows as long as it allows at least 70% of light to pass through. However, if the vehicle's back side windows and rear window already have a tint, the front side windows must match the darkness of the back side windows and rear window.
Back Side Windows and Rear Window
The back side windows and rear window can be tinted as dark as you'd like, as long as the vehicle has side mirrors that give you a view behind the vehicle. If the vehicle does not have side mirrors or the side mirrors do not give you a clear view behind the vehicle, the back side windows and rear window must allow at least 70% of light to pass through.
What are the Penalties for Breaking California's Window Tinting Laws?
If you're caught with illegal window tint, you can be fined up to $250. The fine can be increased for repeat offenders. In addition to the fine, you may be required to remove the tint from your windows or even have your vehicle impounded until the tint is removed.
How Can You Check if Your Tint is Legal?
The only way to know for sure if your tint is legal is to have it measured with a photometer. This is a device that measures the amount of light that passes through the window. You can purchase a photometer or have one used by a professional tint installer or law enforcement officer.
Conclusion
Window tinting can be a great way to add privacy, style, and comfort to your vehicle. However, it's important to follow California's window tinting laws to avoid fines and legal consequences. Make sure to have your tint measured with a photometer to ensure that it complies with the law.