California Window Tint Laws (2026 Guide)

CALIFORNIA WINDOW TINT LAW (VEHICLE CODE §26708)

Whether you’re considering investing in window tint to keep your car’s interior cooler this summer or simply because tinted windows look so sleek and stylish, you might assume the best course of action is dark tint all around. Not so fast — California has strict regulations about car window tinting to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

BRO SAN DIEGO CAR WINDOW LEGAL TINT SPECIALS

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Law enforcement officers even have specialized equipment to determine the precise amount of shading if they think your tint is too dark. Professional window tint installers are well aware of these regulations and should inform you of them at the time of installation.

WHAT IS LEGAL ON EACH WINDOW

• WINDSHIELD: Only a non-reflective strip along the top edge (not red or amber). The strip must end at least 29 inches above the driver’s seat, which in most cars means the top few inches. Clear, colorless UV film (88%+ VLT) on the rest of the windshield is allowed only with a certificate from a licensed dermatologist.
• FRONT SIDE WINDOWS: Only clear, colorless, UV-blocking film with at least 88% VLT; glass and film together must still pass at least 70% of light. Keep the installer’s compliance certificate in the car.
• REAR SIDE WINDOWS: Any darkness.
• REAR WINDOW: Any darkness, if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides.
• MEDICAL EXEMPTIONS: With a letter from a licensed physician and surgeon or optometrist, removable sun-screening devices (green, gray or smoke, at least 35% light transmittance) may be used on the front side windows during daylight. With a dermatologist’s certificate, clear UV film (88%+ VLT) may be applied to any window. Neither allows dark film on the front side windows.
• TICKETS: Usually a correctable “fix-it” ticket: remove the illegal film, show proof of correction, and pay a $25 court transaction fee. Officers may issue a regular citation instead.

This summary is for general information and is not legal advice. Check the current Vehicle Code before tinting.

It’s important to note that the window tint restrictions listed above apply to all vehicle types. Sedans, trucks, SUVs, vans, and even limousines are all required to follow California’s tint regulations.

READY TO ENJOY ALL THE BENEFITS OF CAR WINDOW TINT?

California’s restrictions on window tint might be strict, but you can enjoy all the health, comfort, and safety benefits of car window tinting by selecting a premium gloss film that blocks more heat, lasts longer and looks great without using prohibited metallic materials or dark shading. At BRO San Diego, our window tint experts can help you select the right tint for your needs and budget, and we’re so confident in our professional installation services that we offer a lifetime guarantee on labor.

CALL BRO SAN DIEGO WINDOWS TINTING

+1 858 733 7733