Colorado Window Tint Laws: A Guide (2025)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- Colorado typically requires 70% VLT on the windshield and 27% elsewhere
- Reflective tint is not allowed
- Colorado doesn’t recognize medical exemptions to tint laws
Tinted windows can help reduce glare and may prevent shattered glass from injuring you in car accidents. However, most states limit the amount of window tint you can get — and it’s up to you to make sure your vehicle is compliant. Take a closer look at Colorado window tint laws.
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Legal Tint Darkness Levels by Vehicle Type
Tint levels are measured by visible light transmission (VLT), or the percentage of light that can pass through your car windows. The lower the VLT, the darker the tint. In Colorado, tint levels for sedans are the same as those for vans and SUVs:
- Windshield: 70% VLT or greater on top 4”
- Front Side Windows: 27% VLT or greater
- Back Side Windows: 27% VLT or greater
- Rear Window: 27% VLT or greater
If both the front windows and the windshield have more than 70% VLT, the rear side windows and rear window can have any level of tint.
Tint Reflection Limits in Colorado
Overly reflective tint can cause glare that may contribute to car and motorcycle accidents. Some states allow reflective or mirrored tint, but Colorado does not.
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Additional Window Tint Rules and Exceptions
Colorado window tint laws ban red and amber tints. If a vehicle has a tinted rear window, it must have both side mirrors.
Penalties for Illegal Window Tint
Penalties for illegal tint vary widely. An offense can either be a Class B traffic infraction or a misdemeanor. If convicted, you may owe a fine of $500-$5,000.
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Medical and Out-of-State Tint Exceptions
Colorado doesn’t recognize medical exemptions to tinting laws. Vehicles from other states traveling in Colorado must have windows with at least 20% VLT.
Tips for Choosing Legal Window Tint
To ensure your tint is legal, always work with a reputable installer. Consider using stickers to identify legal tint (state law recommends stickers, but it doesn’t require them).
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Understanding the Window Tinting Process
Tinting involves applying a thin film to your car’s windows. The installer will typically cut tint to fit your car, apply it with a solution of soapy water and then smooth out the film.
Got a Ticket for Window Tint?
If you’ve been ticketed for a violation of Colorado window tint laws, you may be able to fight it with the help of an experienced lawyer. Whether you need a Colorado car accident lawyer or a traffic lawyer, ConsumerShield can match you with an attorney in your area. Get started with a free case review today!
Free Personal Injury Case Review
Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.
Other colorado Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
-
A ticket for a window tint violation can sometimes increase your average car insurance cost per month. However, because it’s not a moving violation, it’s less likely to raise your rates than a speeding ticket or DUI.
-
Yes. Colorado’s window tint laws are relaxed, but some states are even more so. For instance, Montana requires 24% VLT on the front side windows and 14% on the rear side windows and rear window.
