California Law Window Tint 2016: What You Need To Know
Window tinting has become a popular way to keep your car cool and protect your privacy while driving. However, it̢۪s important to know the laws and regulations surrounding window tinting in your state. In California, there have been recent changes to the law regarding window tinting. This article will cover everything you need to know about California law window tint 2016.
What is Window Tinting?
Window tinting is the process of adding a thin film to the windows of a car to reduce the amount of light that enters. This can help keep the car cool, protect the interior from fading, and provide privacy to the driver and passengers.
What are the California Laws Regarding Window Tinting?
California has specific laws regarding the darkness of window tinting. These laws apply to all cars, trucks, and SUVs that are driven on California roads. The laws are as follows:
Front Windshield
The front windshield is not allowed to have any tinting, except for a small strip at the top of the windshield. This strip must not extend lower than 4 inches from the top of the windshield, or lower than the AS-1 line (which is a marking on the windshield that indicates the maximum allowable tint).
Front Side Windows
The front side windows (driver and passenger windows) must allow at least 70% of outside light to enter the car. This means that the tint cannot be darker than 30%. However, if the driver has a medical condition that requires darker tinting, they can apply for an exemption from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Rear Side Windows
The rear side windows (behind the driver) can be tinted as dark as the owner wants, as long as the car has side mirrors that provide a view behind the car. However, the tint cannot be red, blue, or amber.
Rear Window
The rear window can also be tinted as dark as the owner wants, as long as the car has side mirrors that provide a view behind the car. However, the same rules about the tint color apply – it cannot be red, blue, or amber.
What are the Penalties for Breaking California Window Tint Laws?
If you are caught driving a car with illegal window tinting, you can be fined and forced to remove the tinting. The fines for illegal window tinting in California are as follows:
- $25 for the first offense
- $50 for the second offense
- $100 for the third offense
It’s important to remember that these fines are per window – so if you have illegal tinting on all four windows, you could potentially be fined $400 for a third offense.
How Do I Know if My Window Tinting is Legal?
The easiest way to know if your window tinting is legal is to have it installed by a professional who is familiar with California law. They will be able to ensure that your tinting meets the state’s requirements. You can also use a tint meter to measure the darkness of your tint – if it measures less than 70% on the front side windows, it’s illegal.
Conclusion
Window tinting can be a great way to protect your car and your privacy while driving. However, it̢۪s important to know the laws and regulations in your state to avoid fines and penalties. In California, the laws regarding window tinting are specific and must be followed to avoid fines. If you̢۪re unsure about the legality of your tinting, it̢۪s best to have it checked by a professional.