California window tint laws
In California, front side windows must allow at least 70% VLT. Back side and rear windows may be any darkness. Non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield. Medical exemptions are available through CHP.
Tint darkness limits in California
In California, the amount of light that must pass through your windows is set by statute. Darker film has a lower VLT percentage. The rules below apply to aftermarket window film; factory tint on back windows is usually permitted regardless of percentage.
Sedan — VLT limits
SUV / van / truck — VLT limits
Reflectivity — sedan
Reflectivity — SUV / van
Windshield, mirrors, colors & certification
Windshield
Non-reflective tint is permitted on the top 4 inches of the windshield. The rest of the windshield must remain clear of tint.
California does not reference an AS-1 line; the statute specifies the top 4 inches.
Side mirrors
Dual outside mirrors are required when rear-window visibility is obstructed by tint.
Restricted colors
- Red, amber, and blue-colored tint are prohibited as they can resemble emergency or signal lighting.
Compliance sticker
A label showing compliance with ASTM requirements and identifying the film manufacturer must be visible between the film and glass on each tinted window.
Film certification
Aftermarket film must be certified by the manufacturer for use in California.
Penalties & enforcement
Illegal window tint in California is typically a fix-it ticket that can be dismissed after removal of the non-compliant film and proof of correction.
Darker tint with a medical exemption in California
California allows drivers with a qualifying medical condition to install darker tint on windows normally required to transmit 70% of light, provided they carry a signed physician’s certificate.
Who typically qualifies: Drivers with a physician-certified condition requiring protection from light, such as photosensitivity, lupus, or certain autoimmune disorders.
Renewal / expiration: California does not issue a formal permit; instead, drivers carry a letter signed by a licensed dermatologist or physician. The letter should be kept in the vehicle and reissued if the condition or provider changes.
What you need to apply
- Signed letter from a licensed physician or surgeon stating the medical necessity.
- Letter must be carried in the vehicle whenever it is operated.
- Tint still cannot block vision or be applied to the windshield below 4 inches.
Common mistakes drivers make in California
- Installing aftermarket film on front side windows darker than 70% VLT without a medical exemption.
- Tinting below the top 4 inches of the windshield.
- Using red, amber, or blue film on any window.
- Forgetting to keep the physician’s letter in the vehicle when relying on a medical exemption.
California tint law FAQ
Is 70% tint legal on the front side windows in California?
Yes. California requires that front side windows allow at least 70% of light through, so 70% VLT film on clear glass is the most common compliant aftermarket choice.
Can I add limo tint to my rear windows in California?
Yes. Back side windows and the rear window have no VLT restriction in California, so darker film, including limo tint, is allowed.
Do I need a permit for medical tint in California?
California does not issue a DMV permit. Instead, drivers carry a signed letter from a physician or surgeon stating the medical necessity for darker tint.
Is reflective tint allowed in California?
Mirrored or strongly reflective film is not allowed on side or rear windows. Film must not appear mirror-like.
Official references
Sources below are the primary official documents we consulted for this page. If you notice an outdated link or discrepancy, please report it to our editors.
Editor’s notes
California’s tint rules are among the strictest for front side windows, reflecting public-safety priorities and the state’s large population of older vehicles without factory tint.
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