Don’t underestimate the significance of car window tinting, especially if you’re not familiar with California’s tinting laws. Ignorance could lead not only to tickets but also to potential misdemeanor charges. According to Brian Pennings, a spokesperson for the California Highway Patrol, the law mandates that the front windows next to the driver must maintain a transparency of at least 70%. This means there’s a permissible 30% shade for tinting. In certain situations, drivers may tint their windshields, but only a strip at the top not exceeding 4 inches in width, and it must be non-reflective.
The regulations primarily focus on the brightness of the windshield and driver’s seat windows. In contrast, there are no limits on the tint darkness for rear and back-side windows. Given California’s intense UV rays and blinding sunlight, tinting businesses are thriving, often charging hundreds of dollars. However, many newer vehicles come equipped with nearly 30% tint straight from the manufacturer; adding additional film may exceed the legal limits, potentially resulting in fines. As reported by KTLA, Pennings cautions that those who violate the state’s window tinting laws may receive correction tickets, but recurring offenders may be viewed as non-compliant with the law, potentially leading to misdemeanor charges.
While rear windows can be tinted, mirrors cannot, and California law prohibits red, blue, or amber tints. Certain allowances are made for medical reasons; for instance, individuals with a doctor’s note may use temporary sunshields, which must be easily removable at night. For example, patients with skin cancer can apply a legal UV-blocking film on their windshields, but it must maintain 88% transparency. Furthermore, any tinting must be installed by certified dealers, and drivers must retain proof of authenticity.
For vehicles registered out-of-state, if they are compliant with the laws of that state, they can operate in California under those regulations.
In addition to colored tints, the market offers many transparent films that block UV rays and infrared heat. Products like LLumar AIR can block 99% of UV rays while reducing solar heat, and the 80% VLT Nano Ceramic Window Tint boasts high visibility while effectively blocking 99% of UV and infrared rays, leading to cooler interior temperatures.
