2025 Guide to California’s Window Tint Rules

Window tint can make your car more comfortable, stylish, and private. But in California, getting it wrong can lead to tickets and legal trouble. Many drivers don’t even know their tint is illegal until they’re pulled over—and in 2025, enforcement is tougher than ever.

This guide covers everything you need to stay compliant. You’ll learn what’s legal for each window, which colors and reflective tints are banned, and how to qualify for a medical exemption. 

If you’ve already been ticketed or want to avoid one, this breakdown can help you save time, money, and stress.

What are California’s window tint laws in 2025?

California’s window tint laws remain some of the strictest in the country—and enforcement hasn’t let up in 2025. If you plan to tint your vehicle, or already have, knowing the rules can help you avoid costly violations.

At the core of these laws is something called Visible Light Transmission (VLT), which measures the percentage of light that passes through your window and tint combined. A higher VLT means more light gets through (lighter tint), while a lower VLT means darker tint.

Let’s break down what’s allowed, window by window:

• Windshield: Only the top 4 to 5 inches may be tinted, above the AS-1 line. This strip must be transparent, non-reflective, and free of red, amber, or blue hues.
• Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 70% of light in. Because most factory glass is slightly tinted already, aftermarket film must be 88% VLT or higher to comply.
• Back Side and Rear Windows: No VLT restrictions. You can go as dark as you like—but if the rear window is tinted, you must have dual side mirrors for safety.

California Vehicle Codes and traffic regulations—specifically Sections 26708 and 26708.5—govern how these rules are enforced statewide.

Additional Rules and Requirements

Even if your tint passes the VLT test, there are other legal boxes to check. California tint laws cover more than just darkness.

• Restricted Colors: Tints in red, amber, or blue are prohibited on any window. These colors can impair visibility or mimic emergency vehicles.
• Reflective Tints: Mirror-like or highly reflective films are banned. Your tint can’t shine more than the window glass itself.
• Side Mirrors: If your rear window is tinted, California law requires functional side mirrors on both sides to maintain rear visibility.
• Tint Certification: Tint films must be certified by the manufacturer for legal use in California. The shop installing it should provide documentation.
• Window tint certification sticker: A small sticker must be placed between the tint and the glass on each tinted window. It should include the manufacturer’s name and address and confirm the film complies with state regulations.

If your installer doesn’t mention these steps, that’s a red flag. Choosing someone who knows the law matters—we’ll cover that later.

Medical Exemptions: Who Qualifies & How to Apply

California allows certain drivers to install window tints darker than normally permitted—if they meet strict medical criteria. These exemptions are limited and require formal documentation.

Eligibility Requirements

You may qualify if you have a medical condition that makes exposure to UV or visible light dangerous. Common examples include:

• Lupus
• Skin cancer (e.g., melanoma)
• Albinism
• Photosensitivity disorders
• Psoriasis, rosacea, or other chronic dermatological conditions
• Severe burns or scarring

A licensed physician, dermatologist, optometrist, or surgeon must certify that window tint is medically necessary for your condition.

Application Process

To apply for a medical exemption in California:

1. Obtain a signed medical statement from a licensed professional detailing your diagnosis and need for UV protection.
2. Complete the [Medical Exemption Application Form REG 256A from the California DMV.
3. Attach a copy of your vehicle registration.
4. Submit the full application package to the DMV.
5. Once approved, keep the exemption letter or certificate in your vehicle to show law enforcement if needed.

Important Limitations & Legal Requirements

Even with a medical exemption, you can’t use just any tint you like. California’s regulations are designed to balance medical needs with public safety and law enforcement visibility.

• Windshield limitations still apply: Only clear, colorless, and transparent materials may be used on windshields, even with an exemption.
• No reflective or colored films: Red, amber, blue, mirrored, or high-glare tints remain illegal regardless of medical necessity.
• Removability required: Tints approved under an exemption must be easily removable if requested by authorities.
• Minimum light transmission standard: Exempted tints must still allow at least 35% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and must be in neutral tones like green, gray, or smoke.
• Nighttime restrictions: These tints may not be used after dark, even with approval, due to visibility concerns.

These limits ensure that medical exemptions do not compromise road safety or hinder law enforcement during traffic stops.

What are the penalties for illegal window tint in California?

California doesn’t take illegal window tint lightly in 2025. Officers may use tint meters to measure compliance during traffic stops, and enforcement is stricter than ever.

For a first offense, you’ll likely receive a “fix-it” ticket with a $25 fine and a deadline to remove or adjust the tint. Once corrected, you must show proof of compliance to avoid further issues.

If you ignore the ticket or get caught again, penalties increase:

• Fines can rise to as much as $500
• Continued violations may lead to a court-issued bench warrant
• In some cases, the DMV can suspend your vehicle registration or driving privileges

Repeated violations don’t just bring higher fines—they may also affect your driving record and insurance rates.

What should you do if you have received a ticket for an illegal window tint?

If you’ve been ticketed for illegal window tint in California, it’s important to act fast. The sooner you correct the issue, the easier it is to avoid extra fines or legal complications.

First, remove or adjust the tint to bring your vehicle into compliance. Then, have the correction signed off by an authorized law enforcement officer and submit proof to the court within the time frame listed on your citation.

But what if the ticket happened after an accident?

If the tint citation was issued in the context of a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, your situation may be more complex. In these cases, knowing what to do immediately after a car accident is critical. A tint violation doesn’t automatically disqualify you from seeking compensation for injuries, property damage, or lost wages.

At Prestige Law Firm, our experienced California car accident attorneys understand that real-world incidents don’t always fit neatly into legal checkboxes. Led by Paul Aghabala, we’ve represented countless Californians dealing with tint-related complications in personal injury claims.

If your tint ticket is part of a larger legal issue, don’t go it alone. We provide comprehensive personal injury legal support, and you can contact us directly for a free consultation. 

We work on a contingency basis—so you don’t pay unless we win your case. Call (818) 788-0808 or (661) 341-3939 to speak with a live agent available 24/7, or contact us online to get started.

Conclusion 

California’s window tint laws are strict for a reason: public safety and visibility. While tinting can enhance comfort and privacy, not following the legal rules can lead to real consequences—fines, court issues, or even problems after an accident.

If you’ve received a tint ticket or were involved in a crash where window tint is a factor, don’t try to sort it out alone. Read client experiences with our legal services to see how we’ve helped others in similar situations.

Contact Prestige Law Firm for a free consultation. With more than two decades of experience, we can help you understand your options and fight for the outcome you deserve.

FAQs

What is the legal tint limit for front side windows in California?

At least 70% of visible light must pass through the front side windows.

Are there any restrictions on tint colors in California?

Yes. Red, amber, and blue tints are strictly prohibited on all windows.

How can I apply for a medical exemption for window tint in California?

Submit Form REG 256A with a signed letter from a licensed medical professional.

Can I tint my windshield in California?

Only the top 4 inches may be tinted with clear, non-reflective film.