Colorado tint laws regulate the darkness of window tint and the reflectivity of tinted windows on vehicles. The purpose of these laws is to ensure the safety of drivers and law enforcement officers on the road. The laws are in place to prevent excessively dark window tint that can obstruct the driver’s view and hinder communication between law enforcement officers and drivers during traffic stops.
In Colorado, the laws regarding window tint are outlined in Colorado Revised Statutes Title 42, Article 4, Part 23. According to these laws, the darkness of window tint is measured by Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentage, which refers to the amount of light that can pass through the tint. The lower the VLT percentage, the darker the tint. It is important for vehicle owners to be aware of these laws to ensure that their window tint complies with the legal limits.
Key Takeaways
- Colorado tint laws regulate the darkness of window tint and the reflectivity of front and back side windows.
- Tint laws in Colorado are enforced by law enforcement officers during routine traffic stops and vehicle inspections.
- The legal limits for tint darkness in Colorado are 27% for front side windows and 27% for back side and rear windows.
- Exemptions to Colorado tint laws include medical exemptions and vehicles with manufacturer-installed tint.
- Consequences of violating Colorado tint laws can include fines and mandatory removal of illegal tint.
- When choosing tint for your vehicle in Colorado, make sure it complies with the legal limits for darkness and reflectivity.
- Stay informed about changes in Colorado tint laws by regularly checking the Colorado Department of Revenue website and consulting with tint professionals.
How are Tint Laws Enforced in Colorado?
Tint laws in Colorado are enforced by law enforcement officers during routine traffic stops and vehicle inspections. When a vehicle is pulled over for a traffic violation or during a safety inspection, officers may use a tint meter to measure the VLT percentage of the window tint. If the tint is found to be darker than the legal limit, the driver may be issued a citation and required to remove or replace the tint to comply with the law.
Law enforcement officers are trained to identify illegal window tint and are equipped with tools to accurately measure the VLT percentage. It is important for vehicle owners to understand that tint laws are actively enforced in Colorado, and non-compliance can result in fines and other consequences.
Understanding the Legal Limits of Tint Darkness in Colorado
In Colorado, the legal limits for window tint darkness vary depending on the type of window. For passenger vehicles, the front side windows must allow at least 27% of light to pass through, while the rear side windows and rear window must allow at least 27% of light to pass through. This means that the VLT percentage for these windows must be 27% or higher to comply with the law.
For multipurpose vehicles, such as SUVs and vans, the front side windows must allow at least 27% of light to pass through, while the rear side windows and rear window must allow at least 27% of light to pass through. However, multipurpose vehicles are allowed to have non-reflective tint on the top four inches of the front side windows.
It is important for vehicle owners to understand these legal limits and ensure that their window tint complies with the VLT percentage requirements for each type of window on their vehicle.
Exemptions to Colorado Tint Laws
| Vehicle Type | Front Side Windows | Back Side Windows | Rear Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Vehicles | Must allow more than 27% of light in | Any darkness allowed | Any darkness allowed |
| MPVs and Trucks | Must allow more than 27% of light in | Any darkness allowed | Any darkness allowed |
| Medical Exemptions | Medical waiver required | Medical waiver required | Medical waiver required |
There are certain exemptions to Colorado tint laws that allow for darker window tint under specific circumstances. Vehicles with medical exemptions may be allowed to have darker window tint if the owner has a medical condition that requires protection from sunlight. However, in order to qualify for a medical exemption, the vehicle owner must obtain a certificate from a licensed physician stating the medical necessity for darker window tint.
Additionally, law enforcement vehicles and limousines are also exempt from the VLT percentage requirements for window tint. These exemptions are important for vehicle owners to be aware of, as they may impact their ability to comply with tint laws in Colorado.
Consequences of Violating Colorado Tint Laws
Violating Colorado tint laws can result in fines and other consequences for vehicle owners. If a driver is found to have illegal window tint during a traffic stop or vehicle inspection, they may be issued a citation and required to remove or replace the tint to comply with the law. The fines for violating tint laws can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the law enforcement officer.
In addition to fines, violating tint laws can also result in points being added to a driver’s license, which can lead to increased insurance premiums and other penalties. It is important for vehicle owners to understand the potential consequences of violating tint laws in Colorado and take steps to ensure that their window tint complies with the legal limits.
Tips for Choosing Tint that Complies with Colorado Laws
When choosing window tint for a vehicle in Colorado, it is important for vehicle owners to select tint that complies with the legal limits for VLT percentage. This means choosing tint that allows at least 27% of light to pass through for all windows on passenger vehicles and multipurpose vehicles.
It is also important to consider the reflectivity of the tint, as Colorado tint laws prohibit excessively reflective window tint. Vehicle owners should ensure that their chosen tint does not exceed the legal limits for reflectivity in order to avoid potential fines and other consequences.
Before having window tint installed on a vehicle, it is recommended to consult with a professional tint installer who is familiar with Colorado tint laws. A reputable installer can provide guidance on selecting tint that complies with the legal limits and ensure that it is installed properly to avoid any issues with law enforcement.
How to Stay Informed about Changes in Colorado Tint Laws
To stay informed about changes in Colorado tint laws, vehicle owners can monitor updates from the Colorado Department of Revenue – Division of Motor Vehicles website or contact their local law enforcement agency for information about current tint regulations.
It is also important for vehicle owners to stay informed about any proposed legislation or changes to tint laws that may impact their vehicles. Following reputable news sources and staying engaged with local government officials can help vehicle owners stay informed about potential changes to tint laws in Colorado.
Additionally, vehicle owners can join online forums and communities dedicated to automotive regulations in Colorado to stay informed about any developments related to tint laws. By staying proactive and informed, vehicle owners can ensure that their window tint complies with current regulations and avoid potential consequences for non-compliance.
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FAQs
What are the tint laws in Colorado?
In Colorado, the tint laws for passenger vehicles require that the front side windows allow at least 27% of light to pass through, while there are no restrictions for the rear side windows and the rear window.
Are there any medical exemptions for tinted windows in Colorado?
Yes, Colorado allows for medical exemptions for individuals with a medical condition that requires them to be shielded from the sun. However, the individual must obtain a certificate from a licensed physician and submit it to the Department of Revenue.
Are there any restrictions on the tint colors allowed in Colorado?
Colorado law does not specifically restrict the colors of tint that can be used on vehicle windows. However, it is important to ensure that the tint does not obstruct the driver’s view or create a safety hazard.
What are the penalties for violating Colorado’s tint laws?
Violating Colorado’s tint laws can result in a fine. The amount of the fine may vary depending on the specific violation and the discretion of law enforcement. It is important to comply with the state’s tint laws to avoid penalties.
