Colorado State Minimum Window Tint: Everything You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered about the window tinting laws in Colorado? If you're looking to tint your car windows, it's important to understand the state's regulations to avoid getting pulled over and fined. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about Colorado's state minimum window tint, including the legal limits, the benefits of window tinting, and how to ensure you're complying with the law.

What is Window Tinting?

Window tinting is the process of adding a thin film to your car's windows to reduce the amount of sunlight and heat that enters the vehicle, as well as to add privacy. This film is made of a thin layer of polyester and is applied to the inside of the car's windows.

What are the Benefits of Window Tinting?

There are several benefits to adding window tinting to your car:

• Reduce heat: Window tinting can block up to 65% of the sun's heat, which can help keep your car cooler during hot summer months.
• Protect from UV rays: Tinting can also block up to 99% of harmful UV rays, which can help protect your skin and eyes from damage.
• Add privacy: Tinted windows can make it harder for others to see into your car, which can add a layer of privacy and security.
• Reduce glare: Tinting can also reduce the amount of glare that enters your car, making it easier to see while driving.

What are the Legal Limits for Window Tinting in Colorado?

In Colorado, there are specific laws regarding the amount of tint that can be added to a car's windows. These laws are in place to ensure that drivers have a clear view of the road and to prevent accidents.

For passenger cars, the front windshield must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through. The front side windows must allow at least 27% of outside light to pass through, while the back side windows and rear windshield can be tinted to any darkness level.

For SUVs, vans, and trucks, the front windshield must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through. The front side windows must allow at least 27% of outside light to pass through, while the back side windows can be tinted to any darkness level. The rear windshield must allow at least 27% of outside light to pass through if the vehicle was manufactured after January 1, 1997.

How to Ensure You're Complying with the Law

If you're considering adding window tinting to your car, it's important to ensure that you're complying with Colorado's laws. To do so, you'll need to have your car's windows tested with a photometer to determine the amount of light that's passing through the tint. This test can be performed by a professional window tinting company or by law enforcement.

If your windows are found to be too dark, you'll be required to remove the tint and replace it with a film that meets the legal requirements.

The Risks of Non-Compliance

If you're caught with illegal window tinting, you could face a fine of up to $500. In addition, you'll be required to remove the tint and have your car's windows retested to ensure that they're compliant with the law.

It's important to note that law enforcement officers are increasingly using photometers to test car windows during traffic stops. This means that even if you've been driving your car with illegal tinting for years without getting caught, you could be pulled over at any time and fined.

Choosing the Right Window Tinting Company

If you're considering adding window tinting to your car, it's important to choose a reputable window tinting company that understands Colorado's laws and regulations. Look for a company that has experience working with a variety of vehicles and that can provide you with documentation of their compliance with state laws.

It's also important to choose a company that uses high-quality materials and provides a warranty on their work. This can help ensure that your window tinting will last for years to come.

Conclusion

Window tinting can provide a number of benefits, including reducing heat, protecting from UV rays, adding privacy, and reducing glare. However, it's important to ensure that you're complying with Colorado's state minimum window tint laws to avoid fines and legal issues. By choosing a reputable window tinting company and having your car's windows tested, you can enjoy the benefits of window tinting while staying on the right side of the law.

FAQs

1. What is the legal limit for window tinting in Colorado?

   For passenger cars, the front windshield must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through. The front side windows must allow at least 27% of outside light to pass through, while the back side windows and rear windshield can be tinted to any darkness level. For SUVs, vans, and trucks, the front windshield must allow at least 70% of outside light to pass through. The front side windows must allow at least 27% of outside light to pass through, while the back side windows can be tinted to any darkness level. The rear windshield must allow at least 27% of outside light to pass through if the vehicle was manufactured after January 1, 1997.

2. What are the benefits of window tinting?

   Window tinting can reduce heat, protect from UV rays, add privacy, and reduce glare.

3. What happens if my car's tint is too dark?

   If your car's tint is too dark, you'll be required to remove the tint and replace it with a film that meets the legal requirements. You could also face a fine of up to $500.

4. How can I ensure that I'm complying with Colorado's window tinting laws?

   You can ensure that you're complying with Colorado's window tinting laws by having your car's windows tested with a photometer. This test can be performed by a professional window tinting company or by law enforcement.

5. What should I look for in a window tinting company?

   You should look for a window tinting company that has experience working with a variety of vehicles, that understands Colorado's laws and regulations, and that uses high-quality materials. It's also important to choose a company that provides a warranty on their work.