Front Side Windows
Front side windows must allow at least 70% of visible light through (70% VLT or lighter).
California Window Tint Laws Explained. California Tint Laws.
What is legal, which shades to pick, and how to stay cool without breaking the rules.
70% VLTFront side windows
Any shadeRear & back glass
Top stripWindshield only
What California Allows.
What is legal, which shades to pick, and how to stay cool without breaking the rules.
Windshield
The windshield may only carry a non-reflective strip along the top. Optically clear film can be used for heat and UV.
Rear Side Windows and Back Glass
These can be any darkness as long as the car has side mirrors.
The details
Legal Does Not Mean Hot.
Straight answers from an XPEL Authorized Dealer in North Hollywood.
Heat Is Infrared
Most of the heat you feel is infrared light. Nano-ceramic film rejects infrared at any shade, so a light legal film can block more heat than a dark budget film.
Same Protection at Every Shade
XPEL films block up to 99% of UV and reject the same infrared heat in every shade, even the clearest legal one.
We Confirm the Rules
Laws change, so we confirm the current limits for your vehicle when you book and recommend legal shades.
Which Film for the Front?
Clear XR Plus keeps the front windows legal while rejecting a large share of heat. See XR Plus.
Choose a Rear Shade
Rear glass can go darker for privacy. Find your shade in our Tint Percentage Guide.
Tesla Owners
Same rules apply. See Tesla Window Tint.
What VLT is legal in California?
Front side windows must allow at least 70% visible light through. Rear side windows and the back glass can be any darkness if the car has side mirrors.
Can I tint my windshield in California?
Only a non-reflective strip along the top of the windshield is allowed. Optically clear heat and UV film is available for the windshield.
What is the best legal tint for heat?
A clear or light nano-ceramic film such as XPEL XR Plus on the front windows, with a darker shade on the rear if you want more privacy.
Will Autograff recommend legal shades?
Yes. We confirm the current limits for your vehicle when you book and show you the options on your own car.
The studio
Visit us, or just call ahead.
Every install happens in our North Hollywood studio. Wait in the lounge during a tint, or drop the car off and we’ll call you when it’s ready.
- Studio7067 Vineland Ave, North Hollywood, CA 91605
- Phone(747) 777-1000
- HoursMon – Sat · 9 AM – 5 PM
No mobile installs — all work is done in-shop for a clean, dust-free finish.
Free Quote
What are we protecting?
Tell us the car and the service. We’ll reply with an honest quote.