Window tint laws in Colorado (2026)
Per-window rules for Colorado, United States - cited to the primary legal sources and last verified 2026-07-15.
The rules, window by window
| Window | Rule |
|---|---|
| Front side windows | Minimum 27% VLT |
| Rear side windows | Minimum 27% VLT |
| Rear window | Minimum 27% VLT |
Windshield
The windshield must allow at least 70 percent light transmittance. Nontransparent material may be applied to the topmost portion of the windshield if its bottom edge extends no more than 4 inches measured down from the top of the windshield, is not red or amber, does not distort vision, and does not reflect sunlight or headlight glare excessively.
The standard in the law's own words
The windshield strip material must not distort vision or contain lettering that obstructs the driver's view.
Reflectivity
No material may be used on any window of the motor vehicle that presents a metallic or mirrored appearance (CRS 42-4-227).
Color restrictions
The windshield top strip material must not be red or amber in color.
Medical exemption
No medical exemption provision appears in CRS 42-4-227 as reviewed. Colorado is commonly described as having no tint medical exemption; a reviewer should confirm no exemption exists elsewhere in the statutes.
Enforcement
Standard violations are a class B traffic infraction. Installing window material that violates the transmittance requirements is a class A traffic infraction.
Notes
The general floor for side and rear windows is 27 percent light transmittance. Windows to the rear of the driver may have less than 27 percent transmittance only if both front side windows and the windshield meet a 70 percent light transmittance standard; in that configuration the rear side windows and rear window have no numeric floor. Colorado does not use a sedan versus MPV/SUV class distinction for tint limits. The statute text reviewed did not state a net-film versus combined-transmittance measurement method or a numeric enforcement tolerance. This summary is informational and is not legal advice.
This page is informational only and is not legal advice. Window tint laws change, enforcement practices vary, and the summaries here may not reflect the most recent amendments - always confirm the current rules with your local licensing authority or law enforcement before tinting a vehicle.
Last verified: 2026-07-15
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Frequently asked questions
What tint is legal on front side windows in Colorado?+
Colorado requires front side windows to let at least 27% of visible light through. Film rated darker than that is illegal on those windows, and roadside enforcement typically measures glass plus film together.
Can I have a tinted windshield strip in Colorado?+
Yes, within limits: The windshield must allow at least 70 percent light transmittance. Nontransparent material may be applied to the topmost portion of the windshield if its bottom edge extends no more than 4 inches measured down from the top of the windshield, is not red or amber, does not distort vision, and does not reflect sunlight or headlight glare excessively.
Is there a medical exemption for darker tint in Colorado?+
No medical exemption provision appears in CRS 42-4-227 as reviewed. Colorado is commonly described as having no tint medical exemption; a reviewer should confirm no exemption exists elsewhere in the statutes.
Where do these rules come from?+
Every rule on this page is cited to a primary legal source (statute or regulation text), listed under the disclaimer with links. Last verified 2026-07-15. Laws change - confirm with your local authorities before tinting.
Tint laws in nearby jurisdictions
Or browse every jurisdiction on the window tint laws hub.
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