Short answer: California doesn’t allow dark tint on the front side windows: only clear film is allowed, and glass plus film must let in at least 70% of light. Rear side windows can be any darkness, and so can the rear window if the car has side mirrors on both sides. Windshield tint is limited to a clear strip at the top.
Last reviewed: November 13, 2026. Source: California Vehicle Code § 26708.
California window tint limits at a glance
| Window | California limit |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Transparent material on the topmost portion only, lower edge at least 29 inches above the driver’s seat; not red or amber; no more reflective than the glass |
| Front side windows | Clear, colorless film only (at least 88% VLT); glass plus film must stay at 70% VLT or more |
| Rear side windows | Any darkness |
| Rear window | Any darkness if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides |
| Paperwork | Driver must carry the installer’s or manufacturer’s certificate for front-window film |
| Penalty | Infraction, no DMV points; film usually must be removed |
Front side windows: the 70% rule
This is where most California tint tickets come from. Film on the driver and front passenger windows must be clear and colorless, with at least 88% light transmission, and the window with film applied must still meet the federal standard of at least 70% light transmission. Factory glass already blocks some light, so even a light “70%” film usually pushes the combined reading below 70%. In practice, any visible tint on the front side windows is illegal.
Windshield
Only the topmost part of the windshield may carry transparent material, with its lower edge at least 29 inches above the undepressed driver’s seat. It can’t be red or amber, can’t carry opaque lettering, and can’t reflect more light than the windshield itself.
Rear side windows and rear window
The side windows behind the driver are exempt, so any darkness is legal. The rear window is also exempt if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides that show at least 200 feet behind it.
Medical exemptions
California allows removable sun-screening devices on the front side windows if the driver or a front-seat passenger carries a letter from a licensed physician and surgeon or optometrist. These devices can’t be used in darkness. Clear protective film on side or rear windows can also be allowed with a dermatologist’s certificate.
Penalties
A tint violation is an infraction, not a misdemeanor, and adds no points to your DMV record. Courts typically order the film removed, and the total cost depends on the county and how the ticket is resolved (summary of VC 26708 penalties).
Frequently asked questions
Is 5%, 15% or 20% tint legal in California?
Yes on the rear side windows, and on the rear window if you have dual side mirrors. No on the front side windows or windshield.
Is 50% or 70% tint legal on front windows in California?
No. Only clear film is allowed, and the window must still let in at least 70% of light with the film applied. A 50% film fails, and a 70% film on factory glass usually does too.
Can I tint my windshield in California?
Only a transparent strip at the very top that meets the rules above.
Do the rules differ for SUVs and trucks?
No. The same limits apply; many SUVs simply come with darker factory glass behind the driver, which is legal.
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