Let’s be honest… window tint almost always makes a car look better. And that’s why tinted glass is such a popular upgrade for custom cars and restomods. Of course, window tint won’t just improve the look of your ride, it also protects the interior from the sun’s rays, and it helps keep the inside temperature comfortable.

But, unfortunately, window tint can also get you into trouble. Before having your windows tinted, be sure to check with your state’s DMV for laws about how dark your windows can be (often referred to as the “VLT” or Visible Light Transmission percentage), what color the tint can be, and which windows can legally be tinted.

In California, for example, the CHP states that your windshield and front diver’s side and passenger’s side windows cannot have any aftermarket tint applied. Additionally, if your rear window is tinted, you have to have outside rearview mirrors on both sides of the car. Other regulations in California ban the use of red, amber, or blue as a window tint color… and there are no medical exceptions so don’t think you can argue that you have sensitive skin if a cop pulls you over!

Of course, you’ll find plenty of businesses selling tint that exceeds state regulations. Don’t be fooled. Just because they’re selling it does not necessarily make it legal in your state. Many states, including California, do not require manufacturers to certify that the tint they’re selling is street legal. And there’s often no requirement that they list anything on the package telling you what is or isn’t legal in your state. Although any reputable tint shop will tell you what’s legal, it’s your responsibility to know the law… so be prepared to get a ticket (usually a “fix it” ticket) if you cross the line!