Legal Tint Percentages

Quick answer: In California, the legal tint percentage depends on the window. Front side windows: 70% VLT or lighter only. Back side windows and rear window: any percentage — 50%, 35%, 20%, even 5% limo. The windshield allows only a clear strip on top. VLT is measured as glass + film combined.

What does tint percentage (VLT) mean?

VLT (Visible Light Transmittance) is how much light passes through. Higher % = lighter (70% lets in lots of light); lower % = darker (5% is near-blackout limo). California's rules are written around this number.

Which tint percentages are legal in California?

Here's every common shade and where it's legal:

Source: California Vehicle Code §26708(d) and (b)(8) — see the full California window tint laws guide. Rear glass requires working side mirrors on both sides.

Why front-window film has to be so light

The 70% rule measures glass + film together. Your factory glass already blocks roughly 10–30% of light, so to keep the combined window above 70%, the aftermarket film itself must be about 88% VLT or lighter (CVC §26708(d)). That's why “35% on the front” isn't legal even though it sounds moderate.

The popular legal combo

• Front sides: 70% (ideally ceramic, for heat without darkness).
• Back sides + rear: 20% or 35% for a balanced look, or 5% for maximum privacy.

Want the darkest possible legal setup? See darkest legal tint in California. Going darker than 70% up front risks a tint ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tint percentages are legal in California?

On the front side windows, only 70% VLT or lighter is legal. On the back side windows and rear window, any percentage is legal — 50%, 35%, 20%, even 5%. The windshield allows only a clear top strip.

Is 70% tint legal in California?

Yes. 70% VLT is the legal minimum (and effectively the darkest legal film) for the front side windows. It's also legal anywhere else on the car.

Is 50% tint legal in California?

Not on the front side windows (below the 70% minimum). 50% is legal on the back side windows and rear window.

Is 35% tint legal in California?

Only in back. 35% is a popular, moderate shade for the back side windows and rear window, but it's illegal on the front sides.

Is 20% tint legal in California?

Only in back. 20% is illegal on the front side windows but legal on the rear glass with working side mirrors.

Is 5% (limo) tint legal in California?

Only in back. 5% limo tint is legal on the back side windows and rear window, never on the front sides or windshield.

Does the percentage include my factory glass?

Yes. California measures the combined VLT of the factory glass plus your film. Because factory glass already blocks some light, front-window film must be very light (about 88%+ on its own) to keep the combined reading above 70%.

Get California-legal tint in Sacramento

At BGI Tint, every install is built around California's rules so you stay ticket-free. We carry LLumar, STEK, Rayno, Feynlab, BLASK, and Carlas films — including ceramic options that hit the legal 70% VLT up front while maximizing heat and UV rejection. Lifetime tint warranty, same-day appointments, and free quotes across Sacramento, Placer, and El Dorado counties.

• Call: (916) 460-9257
• Book: automotive window tinting — window tint from $299

Written by BGI Tint • Reviewed by Vadym Bugai, owner & window tint installer.

Disclaimer — accurate as of 2026: Laws change; verify current requirements with the California DMV or CHP. General information, not legal advice.

Related guides

• California window tint laws — the full legal breakdown (the pillar)
• Darkest legal tint in California
• Ceramic tint vs regular tint — same shade, more heat rejection

Sources

• California Vehicle Code §26708 — leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
• FMVSS No. 205 (49 C.F.R. 571.205) — ecfr.gov
• California DMV — dmv.ca.gov