Question: How Dark Can I Make My Window Tint In California?

California law regulates the level of tinting allowed on vehicle windows. Specifically, it mandates that the top 4 inches of the windshield must have no tinting. For the front side windows, a minimum of 70% of light must be able to pass through. However, there are no specific restrictions on the darkness of tint for the back side windows and rear window. These regulations regarding car window tinting were put into effect in the year 1999.

Is it permissible to have 35% window tinting on my vehicle in California? In California, if your vehicle does not come with factory-installed tinted windows, any aftermarket tint film applied to the front passenger windows must allow a minimum of 88% of light to pass through. It’s important to note that California law strictly prohibits window tint levels below 70% on any vehicle, so you cannot have tinting that falls below this threshold added to your car. This regulation is in place to ensure road safety and visibility for drivers and law enforcement.