Colorado Window Tint Laws
Everything you need to know about legal window tint in Colorado under CRS 42-4-227. Whether you drive a Model 3, Model Y, or any Tesla, understanding these laws ensures your tint is legal, effective, and worry-free.
Colorado VLT Requirements by Window
| Window Position | Minimum VLT | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windshield | 70% (AS-1 line only) | Non-reflective tint allowed only above the manufacturer's AS-1 line (top 4–5 inches) |
| Front Side Windows | 27% VLT minimum | Must allow at least 27% of visible light through |
| Rear Side Windows | Any darkness | No restriction — can be as dark as 5% (limo tint) |
| Rear Window | Any darkness | No restriction — dual side mirrors required if tinted below 27% |
Reflectivity Rules
Colorado prohibits any tint that creates a metallic or mirrored appearance. This rules out traditional metallized films. The good news: modern ceramic window tint provides superior heat rejection (up to 98% infrared) without any metallic content, making it fully legal and the best choice for Tesla vehicles.
Penalties for Illegal Tint
- •First offense: Class B traffic infraction — typically a fix-it ticket requiring removal or replacement of non-compliant tint
- •Repeat violations: Fines may apply, and the vehicle may fail inspection
- •Measurement: Law enforcement uses calibrated tint meters to verify VLT during traffic stops
Medical Exemptions
Colorado allows darker tint for individuals with qualifying medical conditions such as lupus, severe photosensitivity, or melanoma. To qualify, you need a signed letter from a licensed physician specifying the condition and the recommended level of light reduction. Keep this documentation in your vehicle at all times. The exemption permits darker tint on front side windows beyond the standard 27% VLT minimum.
Tesla-Specific Tint Considerations
Tesla vehicles come from the factory with some level of tinting already applied to the glass, especially the rear windows and panoramic roof. When adding aftermarket tint to a Tesla, the combined VLT of the factory glass plus the aftermarket film determines legality.
| Tesla Model | Factory Front Side VLT | Recommended Aftermarket Film |
|---|---|---|
| Model 3 | ~74% VLT | 35% ceramic film → ~27% combined (legal limit) |
| Model Y | ~74% VLT | 35% ceramic film → ~27% combined (legal limit) |
| Model S | ~72% VLT | 35% ceramic film → ~26% combined (near legal limit) |
| Model X | ~70% VLT | 35–40% ceramic film → ~27% combined |
| Cybertruck | ~78% VLT | 35% ceramic film → ~28% combined (legal) |
Neighboring States Comparison
If you frequently drive to neighboring states, it's worth knowing their front side window tint limits. Colorado's 27% VLT is relatively permissive compared to some surrounding states.
| State | Front Side VLT | Rear Side VLT |
|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 27% | Any |
| Wyoming | 28% | 28% |
| Nebraska | 35% | 20% |
| Kansas | 35% | 35% |
| New Mexico | 20% | 20% |
| Utah | 43% | Any |
| Arizona | 33% | Any |
Colorado Tint Law FAQs
What is the darkest legal tint in Colorado?+
Colorado law (CRS 42-4-227) requires a minimum of 27% VLT (Visible Light Transmission) on front side windows. Rear side windows and the rear window can be any darkness, including 5% (limo tint). The windshield may only be tinted along the top with a non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line.
What are the penalties for illegal window tint in Colorado?+
Illegal window tint in Colorado is a Class B traffic infraction. First offenses typically result in a fix-it ticket requiring you to remove or replace the non-compliant tint. Repeat violations can result in fines. Law enforcement may use a tint meter to measure VLT during a traffic stop.
Can I get a medical exemption for darker window tint in Colorado?+
Yes. Colorado allows medical exemptions for individuals with conditions that require protection from sunlight, such as lupus, photosensitivity, or melanoma. You need a signed statement from a licensed physician specifying the medical necessity. Keep the documentation in your vehicle at all times.
Does Tesla factory glass already have tint?+
Yes. Tesla vehicles come with factory glass that typically has some level of UV and infrared filtering. For example, the Model 3 and Model Y rear glass is often around 20–25% VLT from the factory. Front side windows are usually around 70–78% VLT. When adding aftermarket tint, the combined VLT of the glass plus film must meet Colorado's 27% minimum on front side windows.
Is reflective or mirrored tint legal in Colorado?+
No. Colorado law prohibits metallic or mirrored-appearance window tint on any window. The tint must not be more reflective than a standard window. This also means heavily metallized films are not compliant. Ceramic and carbon films are legal and recommended because they provide excellent heat rejection without metallic reflectivity.
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