Colorado Window Tint Laws In 2026: What's Actually Legal

Most people have no idea how strict Colorado’s tint laws really are. You might think a little extra darkness on your windows is fine. Turns out, the state has pretty specific rules about this stuff. Get it wrong, and you could face fines that’ll sting. Let’s break down exactly what you need to know about tinting your car windows in Colorado.

Colorado takes window tint seriously. The state has clear regulations about how dark your windows can be. These laws exist for safety reasons, especially so police officers can see inside your vehicle during traffic stops. Honestly, that makes sense when you think about it.

What Is Window Tint?

Window tint is a thin film applied to your car’s windows. It darkens the glass and reduces the amount of light coming through. People tint their windows for different reasons: privacy, sun protection, or just style.

Here’s the thing though. Colorado doesn’t care why you tint them. The state only cares how dark they get. The darkness level is measured using something called visible light transmittance, or VLT. This is basically the percentage of light allowed through. The higher the percentage, the lighter the tint.

Pretty straightforward, right?

Colorado’s Basic Tint Laws

Windshield Tint Rules

Your windshield has the strictest rules of all. In Colorado, you cannot tint your windshield at all. Well, technically you can tint the very top part, but only a strip. This strip can be no more than 4 inches from the top of the windshield.

Some states allow tinting the entire top strip. Colorado is more restrictive. You need to keep most of your windshield completely clear. This is because drivers need an unobstructed view of the road. A cop needs to see your face during a traffic stop.

Got it? The windshield stays mostly clear.

Front Side Windows

Your front side windows matter a lot to Colorado law. These are the windows next to the driver and front passenger. In Colorado, your front side windows must allow at least 70 percent of light to pass through. That’s actually pretty light. It means you can barely see a tint if you’re looking from outside.

Think of it like sunglasses that barely darken your vision. You’ll barely notice the tint is there. But it’s legal.

Back Side Windows and Rear Window

Now here’s where you get a little more freedom. Your back side windows and rear window can be darker. These windows must allow at least 20 percent of light through. That gives you way more privacy in the back.

Twenty percent is noticeably darker than the front. Most people actually notice this difference. But Colorado still considers it legal. You’re not going to have windows so dark that nobody can see inside.

Medical Exemptions: Special Circumstances

Wait, here’s something most people miss. Colorado actually allows darker tint if you have a medical reason. Some people have medical conditions that make bright sunlight painful or dangerous. If that’s you, you might qualify for a medical exemption.

To get a medical exemption, you need a letter from a licensed physician. The letter must explain your specific medical condition. You’ll need to get a medical exemption certificate from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Once you have it, you can display it on your vehicle.

With a medical exemption, you can tint your windows much darker than normal. You could theoretically tint your front windows to 35 percent VLT instead of 70 percent. That’s significantly darker.

Important thing here: keep that medical certificate in your vehicle. If a cop pulls you over, you need to show it. Without it, darker tint is illegal, period.

How to Get a Medical Exemption

Getting an exemption involves a few steps. First, you need to see your doctor and explain why you need the exemption. Your doctor has to write a detailed letter. This isn’t a quick process. It takes time.

Next, you’ll contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife. They review your doctor’s letter and make a decision. If approved, they’ll issue you a certificate. You put this certificate on your windshield where it’s visible. Now you can legally tint darker.

Does this seem like a hassle? Maybe. But if you genuinely have a medical need, it’s worth it. You get legal protection, and you get the darkness you need.

What You Absolutely Cannot Do

Okay, stay with me here. There are some tint rules that are non-negotiable in Colorado. Reflective tint is not allowed on any windows. This is the shiny, mirror-like tint that looks cool but bounces light back. Colorado bans it entirely.

Metallic tint is also illegal. This tint has metal particles in it that make it sparkle. Looks nice? Yes. Legal in Colorado? No way.

You also cannot use tint that changes color based on light conditions. Some fancy tints get darker or lighter depending on the sun. Colorado doesn’t allow this either.

One more thing: you cannot have red or amber tint on your windows. Only gray or clear tint is legal. Colorado is pretty specific about this.

These rules apply to all windows on your vehicle. No exceptions. Well, except for medical exemptions, but those still need to follow color rules.

Penalties and Fines

Here’s where it gets serious. Breaking Colorado’s tint laws comes with real consequences.

If you get pulled over with illegal tint, you’ll get a ticket. The fine can range from $65 to $130 for a first offense. That’s not pocket change. But wait, it gets worse.

If you get a second tint violation within five years, the fine jumps to $90 to $180. Multiple violations pile up. Keep doing it, and the penalties get steeper.

But here’s the thing that really matters. You have to fix your vehicle to clear the ticket. The officer will tell you to remove or correct the tint. You then have to show proof that you fixed it. This might mean getting the tint removed entirely, or getting it lightened to legal levels.

If you don’t fix it? You could get another ticket. The violations keep stacking up.

Think of it like a traffic ticket, but more frustrating because you have to actively fix the problem. You can’t just pay and move on.

Getting Out of a Ticket

Not sure what happens if you get caught? You have options. You can contest the ticket in traffic court. You’ll need to explain why you think the officer was wrong. This is tough because Colorado’s laws are pretty clear. Unless you have a medical exemption certificate, you’re probably not getting the ticket dismissed.

Your best bet is to remove or lighten the tint before the court date. You can show the judge that you fixed the violation. Many judges will reduce fines if you show good faith by fixing the problem.

Honestly, this is the part most people miss. Fix it fast. Show proof. Things go smoother.

Recent Changes and Updates

Colorado hasn’t made major changes to tint laws recently, but here’s what you should know. The medical exemption process has stayed pretty consistent. There haven’t been major changes to the percentage requirements either.

However, enforcement varies by county and city. Some areas are stricter about tint violations than others. Denver, for example, tends to enforce tint laws more frequently. Smaller towns might be more lenient.

This doesn’t mean the laws are different. It means you’re more likely to get pulled over in some areas. If you live in or travel through Denver regularly, you especially need to follow the rules.

Also, keep an eye on future legislation. Colorado legislators talk about window tint laws pretty regularly. While nothing huge has changed recently, it’s always smart to stay informed.

How to Stay Legal in Colorado

Here’s what you actually need to do. If you’re thinking about tinting your windows, get it done the right way.

First, find a reputable tint shop. Tell them you want legal Colorado tint. A good shop will know the rules inside and out. They won’t tint your windows illegally. They want to keep their business license.

Second, ask them to use 70 percent VLT for front windows and 20 percent VLT for back windows. These percentages keep you safe from tickets. They’re the legal limits.

Third, use only gray or clear tint. Don’t even ask about colors. Don’t try to get something slightly darker. Just stick to the legal stuff.

Fourth, get everything in writing. Ask for a receipt that states what tint percentage was applied. If you get pulled over, this receipt proves you tried to follow the law.

Fifth, if you have a medical condition, get that exemption certificate before you tint. Having it in your vehicle protects you completely.

Is this a pain? Maybe a little. But it takes the guesswork out of it. You know you’re legal. You know you’re protected.

If You Already Have Illegal Tint

Not sure if your current tint is legal? You might be worried right now. Here’s what to do.

Stop by a tint shop and ask them to check your tint percentage. Most shops have tools that measure VLT. They can tell you exactly how dark your tint is. Many will do this for free.

If your tint is illegal, you have a choice. You can have it removed entirely or lightened. Lightening is usually cheaper than full removal. A quality tint shop can apply new legal tint over the old stuff, or remove it completely.

Honestly, it’s better to fix this before a cop stops you. One ticket and you’re forcing yourself to fix it anyway. You might as well do it proactively.

Special Situations in Colorado

Driving Through Other States

Think you can tint your car dark in Colorado and drive to another state? Good news and bad news. You can drive through other states with legal Colorado tint. Your tint is legal where you live.

Bad news: some states have different rules. If you move or relocate, you might need to adjust your tint to match that state’s laws. It’s not automatic.

The safest approach? Keep your tint compliant with Colorado law. Then you’re covered everywhere in the region.

Tinted Windshield Replacement

What if your windshield gets damaged and needs replacing? The new windshield will be clear. That’s standard. You cannot get a factory-tinted windshield installed. If you want that 4-inch strip of tint at the top, you have to apply aftermarket tint yourself.

Make sure that aftermarket tint stays within the 4-inch limit. Measure it carefully.

Law Enforcement Vehicles

Police cars, fire trucks, and certain government vehicles have different rules. These vehicles can have darker tint because they’re exempt. Don’t get jealous. You’re not allowed to do what they do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tint my windshield in Colorado? You can tint only the top 4 inches of your windshield. The rest must stay clear. This is to ensure you can see the road and officers can see you during traffic stops.

What is the darkest legal tint for front windows in Colorado? Front windows must allow at least 70 percent of light through. That’s pretty light, barely noticeable darkness. It’s meant to keep your visibility high while driving.

What is the darkest legal tint for back windows in Colorado? Back windows can be darker, with a minimum of 20 percent light transmittance. This gives you privacy in the back seat while still allowing some visibility.

Do I need a medical exemption for darker tint? You only need a medical exemption if you want tint darker than the legal limits. If you have a medical condition requiring darker tint, a doctor’s letter and certificate from Parks and Wildlife let you exceed normal limits.

What happens if I get caught with illegal tint? You’ll receive a ticket with fines between $65 and $130 for a first offense. You’ll be ordered to remove or correct the tint. Getting another violation within five years increases fines to $90 to $180.

Is red or amber tint legal in Colorado? No, only gray or clear tint is legal. Red, amber, or any other colors violate Colorado law.

Can I remove a tint ticket if I fix my windows? You can request a fine reduction if you fix the violation before your court date. Many judges are lenient if you show good faith. You cannot get a ticket completely dismissed just for fixing it, but reducing the fine is possible.

How do I measure if my tint is legal? A professional tint shop can measure your tint using a light meter. They can tell you the exact VLT percentage. Most will do this for free or a small charge.

Does Colorado recognize medical exemptions from other states? No. You need a Colorado medical exemption certificate. A certificate from another state won’t work. You have to go through Colorado’s process.

Can I tint my vehicle in another state and then drive it into Colorado? Technically yes, but if your tint is darker than Colorado’s legal limits, you can get a ticket in Colorado. You’re expected to follow Colorado’s laws while driving in Colorado, regardless of where you got the tint.

Final Thoughts

Now you know the real deal with Colorado window tint. The laws are pretty clear. Seventy percent for front windows. Twenty percent for back windows. Four inches on the windshield. Gray or clear only.

Don’t get cute trying to sneak darker tint. Cops know the rules. They enforce them regularly. A ticket costs money and forces you to fix it anyway. Just do it right the first time.

If you have a legitimate medical need for darker tint, get the exemption. It’s worth the paperwork. You get legal protection and the darkness you actually need.

Stay informed, follow the rules, and you’ll never have to worry about a tint ticket. Questions? Check with your local tint shop or contact Colorado Parks and Wildlife. When in doubt, ask a professional.

Colorado Window Tint Laws in 2026: What’s Actually Legal