Colorado Tint Laws
The Colorado tint laws detail specific automotive tint laws for various cars and SUVs. In 1995, Colorado introduced its car window tinting laws to govern the darkness and reflectivity of window tints. Understanding these regulations is vital to ensure you comply with the law. Let’s take an in-depth look at Colorado’s window tinting laws, covering tint darkness, reflectivity, and additional guidelines.
Disclaimer
Even though I aced Commercial Law at school and strive to provide accurate and informative content, it’s important to note that I am not a legal expert. The information presented in this blog is based on my interpretation of the subject matter, and laws can vary by location and change over time. It is strongly recommended that readers verify all sources of information and consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities before making any decisions related to tint laws.
Understanding the Terminology Regarding Tint Laws
The most important part of the legislation is understanding what VLT is and how law enforcement services check or test the percentage.
What is VLT
VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, is a measure of the amount of visible light that can pass through a window tint or film. It is commonly used to determine the darkness or opacity of window tints, and it’s an important factor in window tinting laws and regulations.
VLT is typically expressed as a percentage. For example, a window tint with a VLT of 20% allows only 20% of visible light to pass through, making it relatively dark and less transparent. Conversely, a window tint with a VLT of 70% allows 70% of visible light to pass through and is much lighter and more transparent.
How do Law Enforcement services test the VLT percentage?
Window tinting laws vary by jurisdiction, and they often specify the maximum allowable VLT for different types of windows on a vehicle, such as the front windshield, front side windows, rear side windows, and rear window. These laws are designed to ensure that drivers have adequate visibility and that law enforcement can see into vehicles for safety and identification purposes. The manner that they go about testing the VLT is by using a VLT gauge/meter.
Here is a YouTube Short from @TrafficServices and @TorontoPolice showcasing the device and how it works. Even though it is in Canada, it still is helpful to understand how the tint darkness is measured.
Window Tint Darkness in Colorado:
Colorado assesses the percentage of visible light allowed through car windows using VLT (Visible Light Transmission). The requirements vary for sedan cars and SUVs/vans.
Colorado Car Tint Laws For Sedans:
- Windshield: Non-reflective tint with 70% VLT is allowed on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: Sedans must allow more than 27% of light to pass through the front side windows.
- Back Side Windows: The back side windows should also permit more than 27% of light transmission.
- Rear Window: The rear window must allow more than 27% of light to pass through.
Tint Laws For SUVs and Vans In Colorado:
- Windshield: SUVs and vans follow the same rules as sedans, allowing non-reflective tint with 70% VLT on the top 4 inches of the windshield.
- Front Side Windows: SUVs and vans must also allow more than 27% of light to enter through their front side windows.
- Back Side Windows: SUVs and vans can employ tints of any darkness on the back side windows.
- Rear Window: Similarly, the rear window in SUVs and vans can also have tints of any darkness.
| Type of Window | Sedans | SUVs/Vans |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | Non-reflective tint with 70% VLT allowed on the top 4 inches | Non-reflective tint with 70% VLT allowed on the top 4 inches |
| Front Side Windows | Must allow more than 27% of light transmission | Must allow more than 27% of light transmission |
| Back Side Windows | Must allow more than 27% of light transmission | Any level of darkness allowed |
| Rear Window | Must allow more than 27% of light transmission | Any level of darkness allowed |
If the front side windows and the windshield have over 70% VLT, the windows to the back of the driver (rear window and back side windows) can have any level of tint darkness.
Window Tint Reflection in Colorado:
Window tints can reflect incoming light, which helps reduce glare and heat. Colorado’s tint law outlines specifications for window reflection when using tints.
Reflectivity Tint Laws For Both Sedans and SUVs/Vans:
- Front Side Windows: The front side windows should not exhibit any metallic or mirrored appearance.
- Back Side Windows: Similarly, the back side windows must not have any metallic or mirrored appearance.
Additional Colorado Window Tint Rules and Regulations:
Colorado’s window tinting laws encompass several other essential regulations:
Side Mirrors
If the back window is tinted, dual side mirrors are required.
Restricted Colors
The use of red and amber tint colors is not legal under state law.
Tint Variance
Colorado law permits a 3% light transmission tolerance.
Certificates
Film manufacturers are not obligated to certify the film they sell in Colorado.
Stickers
Although not mandatory, state law recommends using stickers to identify legal tinting.
Medical Exceptions
Colorado law does not allow medical exemptions for special tints.
Regulations for Out-of-State Drivers
The same regulations apply to out-of-state drivers as they do for drivers living in the State.
If you are from states such as New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arizona, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Utah, you are expected to abide by these laws and regulations.
Penalties
Violations of tinting regulations can result in a Class B traffic infraction or a misdemeanor with fines ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Please be aware that the interpretation of Colorado’s tinting laws and regulations might vary in different counties or places of residence. To ensure complete compliance, it is advisable to verify this information with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or law enforcement authorities.
Our records of Colorado’s window tint laws were most recently updated in 2023. We aim to provide accurate and current information. If you encounter any inaccuracies or outdated details, please feel free to contact us. Your trust in our resources is invaluable, and we are committed to offering the most reliable information available.