Tinting your car’s windows involves putting a thin film to them in order to lessen the amount of sunlight and heat that enter the inside.
Depending on your tastes and demands, this film can be created from different materials and come in different colors and hues.
Tinted windows provide a number of advantages, including less glare, security, and protection from UV rays. Colorado has passed legislation regulating the application of window tint.
These regulations specify the maximum allowable tint darkness, the maximum allowable reflectivity, and the maximum allowable color range. It can be very expensive to deal with the consequences of breaking these rules.
If you live in Colorado and want to tint the windows of your automobile, you must first familiarize yourself with the state’s window tinting rules.
In addition to ensuring your legal compliance, this will provide you with further information to consider when selecting a tint shade.
Window Tint Darkness in Colorado
In Colorado, the percentage of light allowed through your car’s window tint is very specific and varies depending on the type of vehicle.
This percentage is measured by visible light transmission (VLT), which is the amount of visible light that can pass through the window.
For sedans, the rules for window tint darkness are as follows:
- Windshield: Non-reflective 70% VLT tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side windows: Must allow 27% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
For SUVs and vans, the rules are slightly different:
- Windshield: Non-reflective 70% VLT tint is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side windows: Must allow 27% of light in.
- Back Side windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
- Rear Window: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Keep in mind that there is a separate set of rules for buses and limos than there are for regular cars and trucks.
According to Colorado statute, you must also have a certificate of conformity from the window tint installer in your car at all times. You may rest assured that your window tint meets Colorado state law thanks to this certification.
Window Tint Reflection in Colorado
Tinted windows not only cut down on the heat and brightness inside your vehicle, but they can also reflect some of that light back out, making it easier to see the road.
However, Colorado has stringent restrictions in place governing the reflective properties of window tint.
The principles of window tint reflection are the same for both passenger cars and SUVs:
- There should be no shiny or mirrored effect on the front side windows.
- There should be no shiny or reflective look to the rear side windows.
It’s possible that your tint could be illegal even if it falls within the VLT criteria because of the metallic or reflected effect it produces. This is because other drivers are put in danger by highly reflective tints.
Additionally, Colorado law mandates two side mirrors if your vehicle’s back window is tinted. This is done so that when reversing or changing lanes, the driver has a clear view of what’s behind them and to the sides.
Other Colorado Window Tint Rules and Regulations
Colorado has strict restrictions and regulations regarding window tinting, especially those that limit the amount of darkness and reflectivity it allows. These rules are meant to prevent injury to drivers and prevent people from exploiting window tints.
Here are the specific rules for other Colorado window tint laws and regulations:
- Side Mirrors: Dual side mirrors are required if the rear window is tinted.
- Restricted Colors: Red and amber tint colors are prohibited.
- Certificates: Film manufacturers are not required to certify the film they sell in this state.
- Stickers: The sticker/label of compliance is recommended but not required to identify legal tinting required between the film & glass on each tinted window.
- Medical Exceptions: Colorado law does not allow for medical exemptions that would allow the use of low tints.
- Penalties: Class B traffic infraction, or misdemeanor with a $500-$5000 fine.
Always check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles or law enforcement to make sure that window tinting is legal in your area before having it done.
These laws are applicable in all counties of Colorado including El Paso, Denver, Arapahoe, Jefferson, Adams, Larimer, Boulder, Douglas, Weld, Pueblo, Mesa, Broomfield, Garfield, La Plata, Eagle, Fremont, Montrose, Delta, Morgan, Summit, Montezuma, Routt, Teller, Elbert, Logan, Otero, Chaffee and Pitkin, Park
Conclusion
Tints are strictly restricted by Colorado law, both in terms of darkness and reflectivity. Knowing and adhering to these rules will help you avoid trouble with the law and any financial penalties.
Window tint darkness is measured in terms of visible light transmission (VLT), which varies among car makes and models.
Even if it is below the VLT limitations, a metallic or mirrored tint may be illegal for sedans and SUVs respectively.
Additional rules include the need for two side mirrors if the back window is tinted, as well as limitations on tint variance, certification, stickers, and penalties.
Make sure your window tinting is in compliance with Colorado law by checking with the DMV or the local authorities.
Learn about and abide by these rules to enjoy the benefits of window tinting without risking legal trouble. Get a certificate of compliance if one is required for the installation, and keep it in your vehicle at all times.
Click on the states below to see the applicable tinting laws.
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