California Car Window Tint Laws – 2025
California Window Tinting Regulations
Window tinting is a popular modification among California drivers, offering benefits like UV protection, reduced glare, and enhanced privacy. However, California has strict regulations on window tinting to ensure road safety and visibility. Below is the most up-to-date information on California’s window tint laws for 2025.
Visible Light Transmission (VLT) Requirements
- Windshield: Only non-reflective tint is allowed on the top 4 inches.
- Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 88% of light (or at least 70% if combined with factory tint).
- Rear Side Windows & Rear Window: Any darkness level is permitted.
Reflectivity Restrictions
- The tint on front and rear side windows must not be more than 20% reflective.
Medical Exemptions
- Drivers with medical conditions that require additional UV protection may apply for an exemption by submitting a physician’s certification.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- First offense: Fix-it ticket (requirement to remove illegal tint)
- Repeat offenses: Fines ranging from $25 to $250 depending on severity
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
For the front windshield, tint is restricted to the top four inches of the windshield. On the vehicle’s front side windows, tint must allow for 70% light transmission, so 30% tint is the maximum. For the vehicle’s side rear windows, any level of tint is allowed, and this applies to the rear windshield as well.
No. The law requires front side windows to have at least 88% VLT (or 70% if combined with factory tint).
Yes. There are no restrictions on the darkness of tint for rear side windows and the rear windshield.
Yes. If you have a medical condition that requires extra protection from UV rays or bright light, you can apply for an exemption with proper medical documentation.
You may receive a fix-it ticket for a first offense, requiring you to remove or replace the tint. Repeated violations may result in fines.
Yes. Stricter enforcement policies have been implemented, and medical exemption applications now require more detailed physician documentation.
The Importance of Choosing a Certified Window Tinting Company
When tinting your vehicle’s windows, it’s crucial to choose a certified and experienced company to ensure compliance with California laws. A poorly installed or illegal tint job can lead to costly fines and require removal, turning what seemed like a cheap option into an expensive mistake. Certified professionals use high-quality materials and ensure proper VLT levels to keep your vehicle within legal limits.
Professional Window Tinting Services in Simi Valley
At Jacy Detail Simi Valley, we specialize in professional window tinting services, ensuring compliance with California’s regulations while enhancing your vehicle’s aesthetics and comfort. We use KAVACA Window Film by Ceramic Pro, a premium American brand known for its high-performance ceramic tinting solutions.
If you’re considering tinting your car windows in California, make sure to follow these regulations to avoid fines and ensure safe driving conditions. Always check with local authorities or professional tinting services for compliance.