Is Window Tinting Legal in Colorado? (2026)
Yes — Window Tinting is legal in Colorado as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Window Tinting is legal in Colorado. Windshield tinting is only allowed on the top 6 inches. These rules are found in Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-237.
What the Law Says
Colorado law requires front side windows to have a Visible Light Transmission (VLT) of at least 27%. Rear side and back windows must also have a VLT of at least 27%.
— Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-237
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Tint Limits (VLT %) | Permitted if tint meets minimum VLT requirements (27% front side, 20% rear side and rear window). |
| Medical Exemptions | Legal to sell tint films; must comply with state standards. |
| Fix-It Ticket / Fine | Fines up to $100 and requirement to remove illegal tint. |
| Age Restriction | None |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
HB19-1067 updated the motor vehicle window tint law, setting the current VLT limits. No major changes have been reported since its passage.
Enforcement Reality
Enforcement can be strict, with police in cities like Boulder actively issuing citations. A violation is a misdemeanor traffic offense with potentially high fines, and is often used as probable cause for a traffic stop.
Common violations include tinting front side windows below the 27% VLT limit or using prohibited metallic or mirrored tint. Tinting the windshield below the top 4 inches is also a frequent mistake.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Colorado. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Real-World Scenarios: Window Tinting in Colorado
What Happens If You Get Pulled Over With Window Tinting in Colorado?
If you're within Colorado's legal limits, a traffic stop shouldn't escalate over window tinting. But "shouldn't" and "won't" are different things. Officers have discretion, and anything in plain view is fair game. Store it properly, know the exact legal limits, and keep proof of legal purchase if you can. Don't volunteer information you're not asked for.
Bottom Line
Window Tinting is legal in Colorado. You can tint your windows it without violating state law, though federal rules and local ordinances may still apply. Always verify current law before acting.
Colorado vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, tinting car windows is fully legal in 18 states, restricted in 32, and illegal in 0. Colorado falls in the LEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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