Legal Tint Limit In Colorado: What You Need To Know

Window tinting is a popular modification for cars in Colorado. Not only does it give a sleek and modern look to your car, but it also provides several practical benefits, such as reducing heat, glare, and UV radiation. However, before you get your car windows tinted, it's important to know the legal tint limit in Colorado to avoid getting a ticket or failing an inspection. In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about the legal tint limit in Colorado, including the laws, regulations, and exemptions.

What Is Window Tinting?

Window tinting is the process of applying a thin film or coating on the inside of your car windows. The film is made of a special material that blocks or absorbs certain wavelengths of light, such as infrared and ultraviolet radiation, while allowing visible light to pass through. This results in a darker and more private appearance of the windows, as well as a reduction in heat and glare. There are different types and grades of window tinting, ranging from light to dark, and from reflective to non-reflective.

What Are the Laws and Regulations for Window Tinting in Colorado?

The Legal Tint Limit

In Colorado, the legal tint limit for the front windshield is 70%, meaning that at least 70% of visible light must pass through the windshield. This applies to all vehicles, including cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. The reason for this limit is to ensure that the driver has a clear and unobstructed view of the road, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Any tinting on the front windshield below 70% is illegal and can result in a fine of up to $100.

The legal tint limit for the side and rear windows varies depending on the type of vehicle:

• For passenger cars, the legal tint limit for the front side windows is 27%, and for the rear side windows and the rear windshield, it's 27% or any level of darkness.
• For SUVs, vans, and trucks, the legal tint limit for the front side windows is also 27%, but for the rear side windows and the rear windshield, it's 27% or any level of darkness.

The reason for the difference in the legal tint limit between passenger cars and SUVs, vans, and trucks is that the latter have a higher profile and a larger cabin area, which makes them more prone to heat and glare. However, the legal tint limit for the front windshield remains the same for all types of vehicles.

The Medical Exemption

There is a medical exemption for window tinting in Colorado, which allows individuals with certain medical conditions to have darker tinting on their windows. To qualify for the exemption, you need to obtain a medical waiver from a licensed physician or optometrist, which specifies the type and grade of tinting that is necessary for your condition. The waiver must be carried in the vehicle at all times, and presented to law enforcement upon request. The medical exemption applies to both the front and rear windows, and overrides the legal tint limit.

The Inspection Requirement

Before you get your car windows tinted in Colorado, you need to be aware of the inspection requirement. According to the Colorado Department of Revenue, all vehicles with aftermarket window tinting must undergo a special inspection to ensure compliance with the legal tint limit. The inspection can be performed by any licensed window tinting business, and consists of a visual and a light transmittance test. The visual test checks for any bubbles, scratches, or other defects in the tinting film, while the light transmittance test measures the amount of visible light that passes through the windows. If your windows pass the inspection, you'll receive a certificate of compliance, which you need to keep in the vehicle at all times. If your windows fail the inspection, you'll need to remove the tinting film and have the windows retested.

What Are the Benefits of Window Tinting?

Now that you know the legal tint limit in Colorado, you may wonder why people choose to tint their car windows in the first place. Here are some of the benefits of window tinting:

• Reduced heat: Window tinting can reduce the amount of heat that enters your car, especially during hot and sunny days. This can make your car more comfortable to drive, as well as protect your skin and eyes from heat exhaustion and sunburn.
• Reduced glare: Window tinting can reduce the amount of glare that reflects off your car windows, especially during dawn, dusk, or rainy days. This can make your driving safer and more comfortable, as well as protect your eyes from eyestrain and fatigue.
• Reduced UV radiation: Window tinting can reduce the amount of UV radiation that enters your car, which can cause skin cancer, premature aging, and other health problems. This can make your driving safer and healthier, as well as protect your car upholstery from fading and cracking.
• Increased privacy: Window tinting can increase the level of privacy inside your car, as it makes it harder for outsiders to see inside. This can make your driving more secure, as well as protect your valuables from theft and vandalism.
• Enhanced appearance: Window tinting can enhance the appearance of your car, as it gives it a sleek and modern look. This can make your car more attractive and valuable, as well as reflect your personal style and taste.

What Are the Risks of Window Tinting?

While window tinting has many benefits, it also has some risks that you need to be aware of:

• Reduced visibility: Window tinting can reduce the visibility of your car windows, especially at night or in low-light conditions. This can make your driving more dangerous, as it can hinder your ability to see and react to other drivers, pedestrians, or obstacles on the road. Therefore, it's important to choose the right level of tinting that balances privacy and safety.
• Legal penalties: Window tinting that exceeds the legal tint limit in Colorado can result in a fine of up to $100, as well as a court order to remove the tinting film. This can be costly and time-consuming, as well as affect your driving record and insurance rates. Therefore, it's important to comply with the legal tint limit and obtain the necessary medical waiver if applicable.
• Quality issues: Window tinting that is not installed properly or is of low quality can result in bubbles, scratches, or other defects that can affect its performance and appearance. This can be frustrating and disappointing, as well as costly to fix or replace. Therefore, it's important to choose a reputable and experienced window tinting business that uses high-quality materials and offers a warranty.

How Do I Choose the Right Window Tinting?

Choosing the right window tinting for your car can be a daunting task, as there are many options and factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

• Know the legal tint limit in Colorado and make sure you comply with it. You can consult the Colorado Department of Revenue or a licensed window tinting business for more information.
• Know your personal needs and preferences, such as the level of privacy, heat reduction, glare reduction, and UV protection that you want. You can consult a reputable and experienced window tinting business for advice and recommendations.
• Choose a high-quality and durable tinting film that is made of a reputable brand and has a warranty. You can compare the features and prices of different brands and grades to find the best fit for your budget and expectations.
• Choose a professional and experienced window tinting business that has a good reputation and offers a warranty. You can read reviews, ask for referrals, and check their licenses and certifications to ensure their quality and reliability.

Conclusion

Window tinting can be a great modification for your car, as long as you know the legal tint limit in Colorado and choose the right type and grade of tinting for your needs and preferences. By following the laws, regulations, and exemptions, you can avoid legal penalties and enjoy the benefits of window tinting, such as reduced heat, glare, and UV radiation. If you have any questions or concerns about window tinting, you can consult the Colorado Department of Revenue or a licensed window tinting business for guidance and assistance.