What's The Legal Tint In Colorado

So, you're thinking about tinting your windows in Colorado, huh? Or maybe you already have and want to make sure you're staying on the right side of the law. This isn't just about looks; it's about safety, visibility, and avoiding a ticket. This article breaks down the legal window tint regulations in Colorado, giving you the knowledge you need to make informed decisions. We'll dive into the specific percentages, what they mean, and some practical tips for compliance.

Purpose of Understanding Tint Laws

Why bother understanding these laws? Several reasons. First and foremost, it's about avoiding fines. Law enforcement in Colorado does enforce window tint laws. Beyond that, illegal tint can compromise your visibility, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions. This increases your risk of accidents. Finally, knowing the regulations allows you to make informed decisions when choosing a tint for your vehicle, balancing aesthetics with safety and legality. This guide isn't just for getting darker windows. It's for doing it responsibly.

Key Specs and Main Parts: Colorado's Tint Regulations

Colorado's window tint laws are relatively straightforward, focusing primarily on the Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage. VLT refers to the percentage of visible light that can pass through the tinted window. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the tint.

Specific VLT Percentages:

Windshield: Non-reflective tint is allowed along the top edge of the windshield above the manufacturer's AS-1 line. If there is no AS-1 line, the non-reflective tint is limited to the uppermost four inches. No reflective tint is allowed on the windshield.
Front Side Windows: Must allow more than 27% of light in.
Back Side Windows: Any darkness can be used.
Rear Window: Any darkness can be used if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides.

Other Important Considerations:

Reflectivity: Colorado law prohibits reflective window tint. This is defined as tint that is more reflective than a standard, untinted window.
Color: Red or amber tints are specifically prohibited.
Medical Exemptions: Medical exemptions may be granted for darker tint percentages. You'll need to apply for and receive this exemption from the Colorado Department of Revenue.
Certificate Requirements: Colorado law requires a sticker identifying the film manufacturer, the installer, and the percentage of light transmission for any vehicle using window tint. This sticker must be placed between the window film and the glass on each tinted window.

Symbols: Interpreting Specifications

While there aren't symbols in the traditional diagrammatic sense here, understanding the "symbols" used in tint specifications is crucial. The VLT percentage is usually expressed as a percentage (e.g., 27%). A lower percentage indicates a darker tint.

Example: A tint labeled "30% VLT" means that 30% of the visible light passes through the window. This is important because if your window already slightly tints the light, after applying the tint, you may go below 27% VLT.

Sometimes, you'll see abbreviations like "IRR" (Infrared Rejection) or "UVR" (Ultraviolet Rejection). These indicate the percentage of infrared or ultraviolet radiation blocked by the tint, respectively. While not directly related to legal compliance (which is governed by VLT), these specifications are important for understanding the heat-reducing and protective properties of the tint.

How It Works: The Physics of Window Tint

Window tint films work by absorbing or reflecting a portion of the incoming light. The film itself typically consists of a polyester base layer with various coatings. These coatings can include:

Dyes or Pigments: These absorb a portion of the light spectrum, reducing the amount of light that passes through.
Metallic Particles: (Like titanium nitride or aluminum) these reflect a portion of the incoming light and heat.
UV Inhibitors: These block harmful ultraviolet radiation.

The specific composition of the film determines its VLT, IRR, and UVR properties. Cheaper tints typically rely more heavily on dyes, which can fade over time. Higher-quality tints use a combination of dyes and metallic particles for better performance and longevity.

Real-World Use: Troubleshooting and Compliance

So, how do you apply this knowledge in the real world?

Before Tinting: Research different tint options and their VLT percentages. Consider the existing light transmission of your vehicle's windows. Remember, the 27% VLT is a net value, meaning it's the total light transmission *after* the tint is applied.
During Tinting: Ensure the installer uses a VLT meter to verify compliance after installation. This is the only way to guarantee you're within legal limits. Keep documentation provided by the installer.
After Tinting: Check the placement and legibility of the required certificate sticker.

Troubleshooting Tips:

Tint Fading: Over time, tint can fade, increasing its VLT. Periodically check your tint using a VLT meter (many shops will do this for free or a small fee) to ensure it's still compliant.
Bubbling or Peeling: This indicates a faulty installation or a low-quality tint film. Address this promptly, as it can affect visibility and may be a sign that the tint is no longer meeting its specifications.
Concern About Compliance: If you are uncertain about legality, take your car to an inspection or window tinting shop. They will have the correct tools to determine the VLT rating.

Safety: Potential Risks with Tinted Windows

While window tint can enhance privacy and comfort, it's crucial to be aware of the potential safety risks associated with excessively dark tint:

Reduced Visibility: The primary concern is reduced visibility, especially at night or in low-light conditions. This can make it difficult to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
Compromised Emergency Response: In the event of an accident, first responders may have difficulty seeing inside the vehicle, potentially delaying rescue efforts.
Increased Risk of Accidents: Studies have shown a correlation between excessively dark window tint and an increased risk of accidents.

Never compromise safety for aesthetics. Adhering to Colorado's window tint laws ensures that you maintain adequate visibility and minimize the risk of accidents.

In the event of an accident where windows are illegally tinted, insurance companies may use this as leverage to deny or limit claims. Always confirm the latest regulations with local law enforcement or a trusted source.

We have a detailed diagram outlining Colorado's window tint regulations, complete with visual aids and explanations. It's available for download to help you better understand and comply with the law.