What Kind of Tint is Legal in California?
California, known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches, also has some strict regulations when it comes to window tinting. If you're planning to get your car tinted, it's important to understand the legal limits to avoid getting into trouble with the law.
What are the legal limits for window tinting in California?
The California Vehicle Code allows a certain amount of light to pass through your car's windows. The specific limits depend on the type of window and where it's located on your car. Here's a breakdown of the legal limits:
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- Front windshield: Only a small strip at the top of the windshield can be tinted, typically up to 18 inches.
- Front side windows: The rearmost 20% of these windows can be tinted to any darkness.
- Back side windows and rear window: These windows can be tinted to any darkness.
What are the exceptions to the tinting laws?
There are a few exceptions to the tinting laws in California. For example, if your car is a limo or used for medical transportation, you may be able to get darker tinting. Additionally, if you have a medical condition that requires darker tinting, you can apply for a waiver from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
How to measure the darkness of your tint?
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The darkness of your tint is measured in visible light transmittance (VLT). This refers to the percentage of light that can pass through the tint. The legal limits for VLT in California are as follows:
- Front windshield: 70% or higher
- Front side windows: 70% or higher (up to 20% of the window)
- Back side windows and rear window: No minimum requirement
How to check if your tint is legal?
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If you're unsure whether your tint is legal, you can have it measured by a professional tinter. You can also check with your local DMV office.
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How to avoid getting a ticket for illegal tint?
The best way to avoid getting a ticket for illegal tint is to make sure your tint complies with California law. If you're unsure about the legal limits, it's best to err on the side of caution and get lighter tinting.
Related FAQs:
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- How to remove illegal tint? To remove illegal tint, you can take your car to a professional detailer. They can use special tools and chemicals to remove the tint without damaging your windows.
- How to get a tint waiver in California? If you have a medical condition that requires darker tinting, you can apply for a tint waiver from the DMV. You'll need to provide medical documentation to support your application.
- How to find a reputable tinter in California? When choosing a tinter, it's important to do your research and read reviews from other customers. You should also make sure that the tinter is licensed and insured.
- How much does it cost to get your car tinted in California? The cost of tinting your car will vary depending on the size of your car, the type of tint you choose, and the experience of the tinter. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a full tint job.
- How long does it take to get your car tinted in California? The time it takes to get your car tinted will also vary depending on the size of your car and the experience of the tinter. However, you can typically expect the job to take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.
I hope this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Remember, it's important to follow the tinting laws in California to avoid getting a ticket. If you're unsure about the legal limits, it's best to err on the side of caution and get lighter tinting.
Enjoy your new tint!
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