California Legal Limit Window Tint: What You Need To Know
Window tinting is a popular way to enhance the look of a vehicle and provide privacy, but it's important to know the legal limits in California. If you're caught with illegal window tint, you could face fines and even have to remove it. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about California's legal limit for window tint.
What is Window Tint?
Window tint is a film that is applied to the inside of a vehicle's windows. It can be a solid color or have a reflective finish. The film reduces the amount of light that enters the vehicle, which can help keep the interior cool and protect the upholstery from fading. Tinting can also provide privacy and reduce glare from the sun.
What is the Legal Limit for Window Tint in California?
In California, the legal limit for window tint depends on the type of vehicle. Cars, SUVs, and vans must have a minimum of 70% visible light transmission (VLT) on the front windshield and the front side windows. The back side windows and rear windshield can have any darkness of tint.
Trucks, including pickups, can have a darker tint on the front side windows and back side windows. The front side windows must have a minimum of 70% VLT, but the back side windows can have any darkness of tint. The rear windshield can also have any darkness of tint.
What Does VLT Mean?
Visible light transmission (VLT) refers to the amount of visible light that is allowed to pass through the window tint. The higher the percentage, the more light that is allowed to pass through. For example, a 70% VLT means that 70% of visible light is allowed through the window, while 30% is blocked.
How is Window Tint Measured?
Window tint is measured using a device called a photometer, which measures the amount of light that passes through the window. The device is placed on the inside of the window and measures the amount of light that comes through the tint.
Can I Get a Medical Exemption for Window Tint?
Yes, California allows for medical exemptions for window tint. If you have a medical condition that requires you to have a darker tint, you can apply for a medical exemption. The exemption must be approved by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and you must carry the exemption certificate in your vehicle at all times.
What are the Consequences of Having Illegal Window Tint?
If you're caught with illegal window tint in California, you could face fines and have to remove the tint. The amount of the fine depends on the county where you were ticketed. In some cases, you may also have to go to court and show proof that you have removed the tint.
What are the Benefits of Legal Window Tint?
Legal window tint has several benefits, including:
- Reduced heat and glare
- Protection from UV rays
- Increased privacy
- Reduced fading of upholstery
Can I Apply Window Tint Myself?
Yes, you can apply window tint yourself, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If the tint is not applied correctly, it can bubble or peel, which can affect your visibility while driving. It's also important to make sure that the tint you're using meets California's legal limit.
Where Can I Get Legal Window Tint?
You can get legal window tint installed at a licensed automotive tint shop. The shop will be able to ensure that the tint meets California's legal limit and is applied correctly. You can also ask the shop for a certificate of compliance, which shows that the tint meets California's requirements.
Conclusion
Window tint can add style and privacy to your vehicle, but it's important to make sure that it meets California's legal limit. Cars, SUVs, and vans must have a minimum of 70% visible light transmission on the front windshield and front side windows. Trucks can have a darker tint on the front side windows and back side windows. The legal limit for the back side windows and rear windshield is any darkness of tint. If you have a medical condition that requires a darker tint, you can apply for a medical exemption. Illegal window tint can result in fines and having to remove the tint. To ensure that your tint meets California's legal limit, get it installed at a licensed automotive tint shop.