What Tint Is Legal In Colorado

So, you're thinking about tinting your car windows in Colorado? Good choice! It can make your ride look sleek, reduce heat inside, and provide some extra privacy. But before you go slapping on any old film, it's crucial to understand the legal limits. Colorado has specific laws about window tint, and ignoring them can land you with a ticket and a mandatory removal. This article is your guide to navigating those laws, so you can tint your windows legally and without hassle.

Purpose of Understanding Colorado Tint Laws

Why bother digging into the details of tint regulations? Well, several reasons:

Avoid Fines: The most obvious reason is to avoid getting pulled over and fined. Colorado law enforcement takes tint violations seriously.
Pass Inspection: If your tint is too dark, you'll fail your vehicle inspection, preventing you from registering or renewing your registration.
Safety: Excessively dark tint can impair your vision, especially at night, creating a safety hazard for you and other drivers. It also hinders law enforcement’s ability to see inside the vehicle during traffic stops.
Resale Value: Illegal tint can negatively affect the resale value of your car. Potential buyers may be wary of purchasing a vehicle that doesn't comply with the law.

Key Specs and Main Parts of Colorado Tint Law

Colorado Revised Statute 42-4-204 governs window tinting. Here's the breakdown of the key specifications:

Visible Light Transmittance (VLT)

VLT is the most important term to understand. It refers to the percentage of visible light that passes through the window film and the glass. The higher the VLT percentage, the more light gets through, and the lighter the tint. The lower the VLT, the less light gets through, and the darker the tint. Colorado law specifies minimum VLT percentages for different windows:

Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed only on the top four (4) inches of the windshield. This section cannot reduce incoming light to less than 70%.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Rear Side Windows and Rear Window: There is no restriction on how dark these windows can be. You can go as dark as you want on these.

Reflectivity

Colorado law also regulates window reflectivity. Tint cannot be excessively reflective, although specific reflectance percentages aren't explicitly defined in the statute. The general rule is to avoid tints that create a mirror-like appearance.

Medical Exemptions

Colorado does offer medical exemptions for darker tint. To obtain an exemption, you'll need to provide a signed statement from a licensed physician stating that darker tint is medically necessary. This statement should outline the specific medical condition and why darker tint is required.

Color of Tint

The law does not allow for red, amber, or blue colored tint.

Understanding the Terminology

Let's define some of the key terms related to window tint and the law:

VLT (Visible Light Transmittance): As mentioned earlier, this is the percentage of visible light that passes through the tinted window.
Reflectance: The amount of light reflected by the window film. High reflectance can create a mirror-like effect.
AS-1 Line: The line located on most windshields, usually about 4-6 inches from the top. The non-reflective tint is only allowed to the area above the AS-1 line.
Tint Meter: A device used by law enforcement to measure the VLT of a window.

How Tint Works

Window tint works by applying a thin film to the interior surface of the glass. This film contains dyes or metallic particles that block or absorb light. The type of material used in the film affects its performance in terms of heat rejection, UV protection, and visible light transmittance.

Different types of tint films are available, each with its own properties:

Dyed Film: The most basic and affordable type. It primarily provides a darker appearance but offers limited heat rejection.
Metallic Film: Contains metallic particles that reflect heat. Offers better heat rejection than dyed film but can interfere with electronic devices like cell phones and GPS.
Carbon Film: Uses carbon particles to absorb heat. Provides good heat rejection without interfering with electronics.
Ceramic Film: The most advanced and expensive type. Uses ceramic particles to block heat, UV rays, and glare. Offers excellent performance and doesn't interfere with electronics.

Real-World Use: Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some common problems you might encounter when tinting your windows and some troubleshooting tips:

Bubbles or Peeling: This can be caused by improper installation, using low-quality film, or exposing the tint to extreme temperatures. Ensure the glass is clean and free of debris before applying the tint. Use a high-quality film and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Hazy Appearance: This can be caused by using old or damaged film. Always use fresh film and store it properly.
Interference with Electronics: Metallic tint can sometimes interfere with cell phone signals, GPS, and radio reception. If you experience this problem, consider using carbon or ceramic film.
Failed Inspection: If your tint fails inspection, you'll need to remove the non-compliant film and replace it with film that meets the legal requirements. Always check the VLT of your tint before installing it to ensure it complies with Colorado law.

Measuring VLT: Before installing any tint, especially on front side windows, it's worthwhile to invest in a VLT meter or borrow one from a friend or local auto parts store. Accurately measure the VLT of your chosen film *before* installation. Also, be aware that factory glass often has a slight tint. What reads as "clear" glass actually absorbs a small percentage of light. This means if your factory glass already blocks 5% of light, you need to account for that when choosing your tint film to remain legal. Film rated at 30% may actually read lower when applied to your window.

Safety Considerations

While window tinting can enhance your vehicle's appearance and comfort, it's important to be aware of the potential safety risks:

Reduced Visibility: Excessively dark tint can significantly reduce your visibility, especially at night or in low-light conditions. This can increase your risk of accidents.
Law Enforcement Concerns: Dark tint can make it difficult for law enforcement officers to see inside your vehicle during traffic stops. This can create a safety risk for both the officer and the occupants of the vehicle.

Always prioritize safety over aesthetics. Choose a tint that provides the benefits you're looking for without compromising your ability to see clearly.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Window tint laws are subject to change. Always verify the most current regulations with the Colorado Department of Revenue or a qualified legal professional.

We have a detailed diagram of Colorado's window tint laws, including specific VLT percentages and reflectivity requirements. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to tint their car windows legally. Download the diagram here.