Tint law
California Window Tint Law
What each window can take, in plain words, from California Vehicle Code §26708.
Window by window
How dark can you tint in California?
California is one of the strictest states for the front windows and one of the most open for the back.
- WindshieldA tinted strip across the top only, kept above a line 29 inches over the driver’s seat
- Front side windowsNo tint — clear UV film only
- Rear side windowsAny shade
- Back windowAny shade, with outside mirrors on both sides
Checked against California Vehicle Code §26708. Laws change — ask us if you are unsure.
Good to know
What else the law says
Clear film on the front windows
The front side windows can take clear, colorless film that lets at least 88% of light through — 70% with the glass. It blocks UV without darkening them.
Mirrors for dark back glass
Any shade on the back window is allowed when the car has outside mirrors on both sides.
Lights
Headlights must keep their color and brightness, so only clear film goes on them.
Questions
California tint law questions
Only with clear, colorless UV film that lets at least 88% of light through — 70% with the glass. A tint shade on the front side windows is not legal.
Any shade, as long as your car has outside mirrors on both sides.
Only a strip across the top, kept above a line 29 inches over the driver’s seat.
We fit film that is legal on California roads, and we tell you exactly what each window can take before we start.
Headlights must keep their color and brightness, so only clear film goes on them. Taillight film is a question to ask us about for your car.
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