California Window Tint Laws
2026 legal limits, VLT calculator, and AI tint preview
California VLT Limits (2026, Sedan)
Windshield
AS-1 line
Front Side
70%
VLT minimum
Back Side
Any
VLT minimum
Rear
Any
VLT minimum
Red, amber, blue tints prohibited. Side mirrors required if rear tinted. Medical exemption available.
Window Tint Checker
Check if your tint is legal & calculate combined VLT
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CaliforniaChoose your film darkness
Factory glass VLT (most cars 70–80%)
Complete both steps to see results
Now choose a film darkness above to see your results
Now you know the legal limits in California
See exactly how that tint looks on your actual car before installing
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Window tint in California
California has some of the toughest front side rules in the country at 70% VLT, which is nearly clear glass and allows almost no visible film. The upside is that rear and back side windows can go any darkness on all vehicle types, so the back of the car is completely open territory. For most people in this hot state, the strategy is to go as dark as possible on the rear glass and accept the clear fronts.
How California compares
| State | Front | Back | Rear |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 70% | Any | Any |
| Oregon | 35% | 35% | 35% |
| Nevada | 35% | Any | Any |
| Arizona | 33% | Any | Any |
| Washington | 24% | 24% | 24% |
| Washington D.C. | 70% | 50% | 50% |
Tint ticket costs in California
First Offense
$25 base fine + fees (~$197 total)
Repeat Offense
$197+ per offense
Medical exemptions in California
Medical exemptions permit front side windows down to 70% VLT with clear colorless film only. Requires physician letter specifying condition. Certificate valid for 3 years. No exemption below 70% on front sides.
This tool is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Tint laws change frequently. Always verify current regulations with a certified installer or your local DMV before making any decisions. Car Editor is not responsible for any fines, penalties, or legal issues resulting from the use of this information.
Nearby States
Driving across state lines? Check neighboring tint laws
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal window tint in California?
Front side windows need a minimum of 70% VLT. Back side windows require any darkness, and the rear window requires any darkness. Red, amber, blue tints prohibited. Side mirrors required if rear tinted. Medical exemption available.
How much is a tint ticket in California?
A first offense is typically $25 base fine + fees (~$197 total). Repeat offenses can cost $197+ per offense. Fix-it tickets are available, giving you time to remove or replace the film.
What is combined VLT and why does it matter?
Your car's factory glass already blocks some light (usually around 70-80% VLT). When you add tint film, the combined VLT is lower than the film alone. For example, 35% film on 75% factory glass gives you about 26% combined VLT. The calculator above does this math for you.
Can I preview tint on my car before installing?
Yes. Car Editor's AI tint simulator lets you upload a photo of your car and see any tint level applied to it in seconds. You can try different VLT percentages on your actual vehicle before committing.