Is 20% tint illegal in California?

On the front side windows, yes. California requires front side windows to allow more than 70% of light through. 20% VLT tint on front windows is not legal in California and will result in a fix-it ticket. On the rear windows, 20% is perfectly legal.

Can I get tinted windows on my Tesla in California?

Yes. California tint law applies equally to all vehicles including Teslas. Front side windows must be 70% VLT or more; rear windows and the rear windshield have no restriction.

What is a fix-it ticket for window tint?

A fix-it ticket (also called a correctable violation) requires you to correct the violation — in this case, remove or replace non-compliant tint — and have an officer sign off on the correction within a set period. Superior Window Tint's fix-it ticket protection covers this correction at no charge.

Does California allow medical exemptions for darker front window tint?

California does not offer a standard medical exemption for front side window tint below 70% VLT. Some conditions may qualify under specific DMV processes, but this is not a simple paperwork exemption. Consult a legal professional if you have a medical need.

California Law

California Window Tint Laws for Tracy Drivers

Feb 1, 2026 6 min read Superior Window Tint Experts

California Vehicle Code Section 26708 requires that front side windows allow more than 70% of visible light to pass through (70% VLT or higher). The windshield may only have tint applied above the AS-1 line or in a 4-inch strip at the top. Rear side windows and the rear windshield have no VLT restriction for non-commercial passenger vehicles. Violating these rules can result in a fix-it ticket — and that's exactly why Superior Window Tint offers fix-it ticket protection on every installation.

California Tint Law by Window Position

Front Side Windows: Must allow at least 70% of light to pass through. 70% VLT is nearly clear but still provides excellent heat rejection when using a ceramic film.
Rear Side Windows: Any darkness is permitted for passenger vehicles.
Rear Windshield: Any darkness is permitted.
Front Windshield: A tint strip is allowed on the top 4 inches or above the AS-1 line.

What VLT Means and How It's Measured

VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission. It's the percentage of visible light that passes through the window. A 5% VLT is very dark (limo tint), while a 70% VLT is nearly clear. Officers use a tint meter that slides over the glass to measure the exact percentage.

Why Fix-It Ticket Protection Matters on I-205 and I-5

Tracy drivers commute heavily on highways where CHP patrols are frequent. If you opt for a darker tint and receive a fix-it ticket, Superior Window Tint's guarantee means we will remove the tint and replace it at no charge. You won't pay twice.

Legal vs. Illegal Tint: What CHP Officers Look For

Officers typically look for heavily tinted front windows that obscure the driver's face. Sticking to legal limits ensures you won't be targeted while still enjoying the heat rejection benefits of ceramic window tint.

XPEL Films That Are Legal in California

We carry XPEL Prime XR and XR Plus in 70% VLT, which meets California's front window requirements while still blocking up to 98% of infrared heat. You don't need dark tint to stay cool.

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