California tint limits at a glance
| Front side windows | 70% combined (film itself 88% or lighter) |
|---|---|
| Back side windows | Any darkness |
| Rear window | Any darkness (mirrors on both sides) |
| Windshield | Clear top strip, bottom edge at least 29 inches above the driver's seat |
| Reflectivity | Check statute |
| SUVs, vans and trucks | Same as cars |
Percentages are the minimum visible light transmission with the film installed, including the factory glass. A lower number means darker tint.
Is 5%, 20%, 35% or 50% tint legal in California?
This table shows whether a film with each rating is legal on a sedan in California. Factory glass blocks some light, so a film reads darker once it's installed.
| Film rating | Front side windows | Back side windows | Rear window |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 15% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 20% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 35% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 50% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
| 70% | Not legal | Legal | Legal with mirrors on both sides |
'Likely too dark once installed' means the film rating meets the limit, but on typical factory glass the combined reading usually falls under it. Meter the window to be sure.
Choosing a film that stays legal
Assume factory side glass passes about 80% of light.
- Front side windows: Clear or near-clear film (88% or lighter)
- Back side windows: Any film
- Rear window: Any film
Factory privacy glass on many SUVs already reads well under 30%, so any film added over it will read darker still. Always meter after the install.
Fines and penalties
California's tint law doesn't set a specific fine. Amounts are set by the court where the ticket is issued.
Medical exemptions
A letter from a physician or optometrist allows removable sun screens on the front side windows during daylight. Clear UV film is allowed with a dermatologist's certificate.
For California tint shops
For front side film, the installer signs a certificate naming the installer and film manufacturer. The driver keeps it in the vehicle.
Law history
- : Clear film rules updated (SB 506).
The law
California's tint rules are set by Cal. Veh. Code § 26708. Read the source
This page is a reference for drivers and installers, not legal advice. Enforcement can vary by city and county.
Frequently asked questions
How dark can you legally tint your windows in California?
On a sedan, front side windows: 70% combined (film itself 88% or lighter). Back side windows: Any darkness. Rear window: Any darkness (mirrors on both sides).
Is 20% tint legal in California?
Front: Not legal. Back: Legal. Rear: Legal with mirrors on both sides. See the 20% film row.
Is 35% tint legal in California?
Front: Not legal. Back: Legal. Rear: Legal with mirrors on both sides. See the 35% film row.
Is tint allowed on the windshield in California?
Clear top strip, bottom edge at least 29 inches above the driver's seat
Are the rules different for SUVs and trucks in California?
Same as cars
Can I get a medical exemption for window tint in California?
A letter from a physician or optometrist allows removable sun screens on the front side windows during daylight. Clear UV film is allowed with a dermatologist's certificate.
Related
Back to the full chart: Window tint laws by state
Neighboring states:
Data set last updated: