Is 35% Tint Legal in California? (2025 Update)

Thinking about applying 35% window tint to your car in California? You’re not alone. Many drivers love this tint level because it offers a sleek, balanced look—providing moderate privacy, heat control, and daytime glare reduction. But here's the critical question:

Is 35% tint legal in California in 2025?

The short answer: It depends on where you apply it.

Understanding California’s Tint Law by Window

In California, window tinting laws are based on Visible Light Transmission (VLT%)—how much visible light passes through your windows. The lower the number, the darker the tint. So, a 35% tint means 65% of visible light is blocked.

Here’s how 35% tint stands legally on different windows:

So, 35% tint is NOT legal on your front side windows, but perfectly legal on rear windows and rear windshield.

Why Is 35% Tint Illegal on Front Side Windows?

California prioritizes driver visibility and law enforcement safety. That’s why state law requires the driver and front passenger side windows to allow at least 70% of visible light to pass through.

Even though 35% tint looks "light" compared to limo tints, it still blocks 65% of incoming light, which could:

• Impair driver visibility in fog or night conditions

• Make it harder for police officers to see inside vehicles during traffic stops

Can I Still Use 35% Tint on Rear Windows?

Yes! The good news is that rear side windows and rear windshield have no tint darkness limits in California. That means:

• Sedans, SUVs, and trucks can use 35%, 20%, or even 5% tint on these windows

• You can achieve privacy and heat control without legal risk — as long as your mirrors are in good working order

Just ensure your rear window has dual side mirrors if heavily tinted or if rear visibility is limited.

Can Medical Exemptions Allow 35% Tint on Front Windows?

Yes — but you must apply for a medical exemption. If you have conditions like lupus, melanoma, or light-triggered migraines, California allows you to:

• Install darker front window tint (including 35% or darker)

• Avoid fines with proper documentation from a licensed physician

• Carry your exemption letter in your vehicle at all times

Even with an exemption, law enforcement can still question excessive reflectivity or visibility obstruction.

What Happens If You Apply 35% Tint on Front Windows Without an Exemption?

If caught with illegal 35% tint on your front windows:

• First offense: ~$25 fine + fix-it ticket

• Second offense: ~$200 fine + potential registration flag

• Repeated violations may be reported to the DMV

The most common situation is being pulled over during a routine traffic stop or checkpoint, and a tint meter test is used to measure your VLT.

Alternatives to 35% Tint for Front Windows in California

If you're determined to tint your front side windows legally, consider these options:

• 70% ceramic tint: Offers legal compliance, plus infrared heat and UV rejection

• UV-only clear films: Protects interior without reducing VLT

• Transition window films (photochromic): Adjust to sunlight but must meet 70% minimum when tested

These options may be slightly more expensive, but they keep your car legal and offer advanced protection.

Summary: Is 35% Tint Legal in California?

• ✅ Rear Windows: Yes, 35% tint is fully legal

• ✅ Rear Windshield: Yes, any level of darkness is allowed

• ❌ Front Side Windows: No, unless you have a medical exemption

• ✅ Windshield: Only the top 4 inches or above the AS-1 line

If you love the 35% look, keep it to the rear windows — and consider 70% ceramic film for the front if you want protection without risking fines.