Window tinting has benefits ranging from privacy to glare and general health and safety to reduced exposure to UV rays. However, the allowed levels of window tinting vary in every state, with California not being an exception. If you have already prepared yourself for the changing of your car’s windows to a 35% tint in California, you will therefore need to be clearly informed about the state laws and regulations so that you don’t end up paying some fine for non-compliance.
An Overview of Tint Laws in California
The state of California has a very specific set of rules for window darkening and reflectiveness. These rules are primarily based on safety and visibility for the driver and fellow law enforcers. Here is the key point in the issue:
- Windshield Tinting: A strip of non-reflective tint can be applied on the windshield top up to 4 inches. It is also known as an “eyebrow” or “sun strip” and helps reduce glare without affecting or distorting the driver’s line of sight.
- Front Side Windows: The level of light able to pass through the tint should be more than 70%. The light tint is allowed for front side windows so that there is minimal impairment of visibility.
- Rear Side Windows and Back Window: There are no restrictions placed on how dark the tint for the rear side windows and the back window can be tinted. A 35% tint and even darker can be installed on this window if it is your preference.
What is a 35% Tint
A 35% tint would involve letting 35% of visible light pass into the vehicle and blocking all the rest, which is a total of 65% of the window. As mentioned above, this level of tinting would provide for a moderately dark interior, lending to decent privacy and glare reduction without really coming across as very dark. However, applying a 35% tint to the front windows is unlawful according to California’s specification, under which at least 70% transmission is needed.
Potential Consequence
Driving with illegal window tint in California may result in:
- Fines and citations: If you’re stopped and proven to have illegal window tint, you might get a fix-it ticket that involves peeling off the tint and paying a fine. Such repeated offenses can result in much harsher penalties.
- Safety Concerns: Overly dark tints block your view in poor weather or during the night, making accidents much more likely.
- Unregistered Vehicles: Vehicles with illegal tint will not pass inspection or will not be qualified for registration.
Legal Alternatives
If you do prefer a darker model for your own privacy and/or preferred appearance factor, consider these legal alternatives:
- Rear Windows: You can apply a 35% tint or darker on the rear side windows and the back window, which is legal without any fears.
- Clear or Light Tint: You are looking to have a clear or light tint film with a 70% light transmission requirement, which still confers good UV protection and some reduction in glare.
- Medical Exemptions: California does allow for window tinting medical exemptions. If you have a medical condition whereby more protection from the sun is required, you can apply for an exemption with the necessary documentation from a licensed physician.
Conclusion
While a 35% tint does give security to the occupants—both to some extent and from glaring—this does not pass the California Governing Law for the front side windows, which require more than 70% of the light to pass. To avoid fines, be safe, and pass the inspection, there is a need to follow the legal requirements. It provides a legal and satisfactory solution for those who wish to look into darker shades of tint by focusing on the darker shades of tint allowed in rear windows or seeking medical exemptions. Always stay informed about local laws for your vehicle to be compliant and safe.
This post was written by a professional at M Tint. M Tint is your ultimate destination for professional auto window tinting Glendale CA. With over 20 years of unparalleled expertise in the industry, we have established ourselves as the go-to specialists for all your window tinting needs. At the heart of our company is Marcos, our esteemed owner, who has dedicated his career to mastering the art and science of window tinting. Under his leadership, M Tint has grown into a reputable and trusted name, synonymous with quality, precision, and customer satisfaction.
