Is Window Tinting Legal in California?
Window Tinting is legal with restrictions in California as of 2026. California allows window tinting with a minimum of 70% VLT on front side windows and 70% on rear side windows for non-multi-purpose vehicles. Windshield tinting is only allowed above the AS-1 line. These rules are codified in California Vehicle Code § 26708.
Window Tinting is LEGAL WITH RESTRICTIONS in California
Window Tinting is legal in California but with specific restrictions and regulations.
Window Tinting Laws in California: Quick Facts
- 1 Legal Status: Window Tinting is currently legal with restrictions in California.
- 2 Possession: Allowed if tint meets VLT requirements (70% or more on front and rear side windows).
- 3 Sale: Legal to sell tint films; installers must comply with state standards.
- 4 Age Restriction: None
- 5 Penalties: Fines up to $250 and possible vehicle inspection failure.
Detailed Legal Breakdown
| Possession | Allowed if tint meets VLT requirements (70% or more on front and rear side windows). |
| Sale | Legal to sell tint films; installers must comply with state standards. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Penalties | Fines up to $250 and possible vehicle inspection failure. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
How Does California Compare?
Across all 50 states, Window Tinting is fully legal in 0 states, legal with restrictions in 50 states, and illegal in 0 states. California is among the 50 states where it is legal with restrictions.
View the full 50-state map for Window Tinting →Top Window Tinting Products Available in California (Where Permitted)
Verified vendors that ship to California. Always confirm current laws before purchasing.
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This page was researched and written by the editorial team at IsThisLegalInMyState.com. All legal information is sourced directly from official state statutes, regulatory agency publications, and legislative databases. Our team reviews each page for accuracy and updates it when laws change.
Source
Citation: California Vehicle Code § 26708
https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=26708.&lawCode=VEH
Last verified: 2026-01-15
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