California Windshield Tint Laws: What's Legal in 2026

California Front Windshield Tint Laws Explained

Let's clear up the confusion about California's windshield tinting rules once and for all.

The Basic Rule

California Vehicle Code Section 26708 governs windshield tinting. Here's the deal:

• Top 4 inches only: You can tint the top AS-1 line (approximately 4 inches) on your front windshield
• Back and side windows: Must allow 70%+ light transmission
• Rear window: Any darkness allowed if you have side mirrors

Why So Strict?

Safety. The front windshield is critical for:

1. Visibility - Seeing pedestrians, cyclists, obstacles
2. Officer safety - Law enforcement needs to see drivers
3. Accident prevention - Clear sightlines in all conditions

Medical Exemptions Available

California does allow darker tinting for medical reasons:

Qualifying conditions:

• Lupus
• Melanoma or skin cancer history
• Photosensitivity conditions
• Albinism
• Other documented UV sensitivity

Process:

1. Get written documentation from your physician
2. Keep the exemption certificate in your vehicle
3. Exemption allows up to 35% VLT on driver/passenger windows

Note: Medical exemptions do NOT allow full windshield tinting—only side windows.

Penalties for Violations

If you're caught with illegal windshield tint:

What You CAN Do Legally

Legal windshield options:

• Clear UV-rejection film (allows 70%+ VLT)
• Top 4-inch strip tint (any darkness)
• Ceramic heat-rejection film (maintains visibility)

Benefits of legal options:

• Block 99% UV rays without visibility reduction
• Reduce heat by up to 60%
• No legal issues

Our Recommendation

We install ceramic heat-rejection films on windshields that:

• Are 100% legal in California
• Block significant heat
• Maintain full visibility
• Pass any inspection

Don't risk tickets for illegal tint when legal solutions work just as well for heat and UV protection.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tint my entire windshield in California?

No. California law only permits tinting on the top 4-5 inches of your windshield (the AS-1 line area). The rest must remain clear or use film that allows 70%+ visible light transmission. Full windshield tint is illegal regardless of darkness.

Will I get pulled over for windshield tint?

For a legal top-strip tint, no. For illegal full-windshield tint, possibly. Law enforcement in California does actively enforce tint laws, especially during traffic stops for other reasons. Illegal windshield tint gives officers probable cause to stop you.

How do I get a medical exemption for window tint?

1. Get diagnosed with a qualifying condition (lupus, melanoma history, photosensitivity, etc.)
2. Obtain a signed statement from your licensed physician
3. Keep the certificate in your vehicle at all times
4. Note: This only covers SIDE windows up to 35% VLT—not the windshield

What's the darkest legal windshield tint in California?

For the top strip (4-5 inches), any darkness is legal. For the rest of the windshield, you must maintain 70%+ visible light transmission (VLT). This means only clear protective films or very light ceramic heat-rejection films are legal.

Will ceramic tint on my windshield block heat?

Yes! Modern ceramic films like 3M Crystalline can block up to 60% of solar heat while maintaining near-100% visibility. You get significant heat reduction without breaking any laws. This is what we recommend for California drivers.

What if I get a ticket for windshield tint?

First offense is typically a "fix-it ticket"—remove the illegal tint, get sign-off from law enforcement, and pay a ~$25 administrative fee. Failing to fix it or repeat offenses result in fines of $200+. We can help remove illegal tint if needed.

Can I tint the brow strip darker?

Yes. The top 4-5 inches (AS-1 line) can be tinted to any darkness. Many drivers choose 20-35% on the brow strip for sun protection and aesthetics. This is 100% legal in California.

---

📞 Questions? Contact us for California-legal windshield options.

---

Sources & Legal References

{/* VERIFIED: California Vehicle Code, January 2026 */}

California Legal Sources:

• California Vehicle Code Section 26708 — Official windshield tint regulations
• California DMV — Vehicle equipment requirements

Key Legal Requirements:

Penalty Information:

• First violation: Fix-it ticket, ~$25 correction fee
• Repeat violations: $197+ fine per California courts

Last Verified: January 16, 2026. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

---

Visit the Experts in Gilroy

Blackout Window Tinting is the Bay Area's premier choice for premium auto protection. Based in Gilroy at 610 Holloway Rd (behind Target), we've served the South County and Silicon Valley area for over 33 years. Whether you're coming from Morgan Hill, Hollister, or anywhere else in the Bay Area, we're your trusted local source for professional window tint, PPF, and ceramic coating.

📞 Questions? Call us at 408-848-8468 or get a free quote online.

Ready to upgrade your vehicle?

Experience the Blackout difference. Contact our expert team today for a custom consultation and white-glove service.

Get Your Free Quote