A clear, plain-English guide to California's 2026 window tint laws — VLT limits, windshield rules, medical exemption, and what happens if you get pulled over.
California window tint laws confuse a lot of drivers. Here's the straight answer for 2026.
Must allow at least **70% VLT** (visible light transmission). That means you can put a film on, but only a very light one — usually a clear ceramic film for heat rejection.
**Any darkness is allowed.** 5%, 20%, 35%, 50% — your call.
**Any darkness is allowed**, same as rear sides.
You can put a non-reflective sun strip across the **top 4 inches** of the windshield. Or a full clear ceramic film for heat rejection that doesn't reduce VLT.
No mirror or metallic finish that's more reflective than a standard window.
If you have a documented medical condition (lupus, severe photosensitivity, etc.) you can apply for a CA Highway Patrol exemption to legally tint your front side windows darker.
A "fix-it" ticket — usually $25–$197 plus the cost to remove the tint. Repeat offenses get more expensive.
We help every customer pick a legal combination — usually a clear ceramic film up front for heat rejection, plus your shade of choice in the rear. Book a free consultation and we'll walk you through it.
Coastal Tint is North County San Diego's mobile window tint specialist. We come to your driveway with premium film and a lifetime warranty.