What’s The Darkest Legal Window Tint In Colorado?

Want to make sure you don't get a ticket for tint? Let's explore what is and isn't legal in Colorado for tint.

Jay Latona

10/21/20251 min read

Window tint is a popular automotive modification in Colorado, offering benefits like UV protection and enhanced privacy, but strict regulations govern permissible darkness levels. Colorado law prohibits any tint on windshields and front side windows, ensuring unobstructed visibility for drivers. For rear side windows and the rear windshield, drivers may apply tint of any darkness without legal restrictions. These rules apply uniformly to sedans, SUVs, and vans.

In this article, J9’s Luxury Auto Detailing will share the regulations surrounding window tint darkness in Colorado and discuss the state’s darkest window tint that is legally permissible. Understanding these regulations will help vehicle owners avoid potential fines or penalties.

What Are The Window Tint Percentages?

Window tint darkness is measured by the visible light transmission (VLT) percentage. It is the percentage of light that can pass through a car’s windows after tinting. A higher VLT means a lighter tint, letting in more light, while a lower VLT means a darker shade, allowing in less light.

Here are some standard tint percentages and their characteristics:

No Tint: No film on your vehicle means you’re using regular factory windows made of clear glass. While it provides complete visibility, it can create glares while driving and allow UV rays to damage the car’s interior.
50% Tint: A 50% tint blocks only half the light from reaching the inside of your vehicle. It’s excellent for hindering UV rays and heat while maintaining good visibility.
35% Tint: This tint crafts a darker appearance but lets you see through easily.
20% Tint: With 20% tint, you can see through the window up close from outside, but with some difficulty. This is our most popular and most rear windows come stock at 20% from factory.
5% Tint: Applying a 5% tint means you can’t see through. This window tint percentage is illegal for many vehicles, except for exceptions like limousines. This will obstruct night driving.

In Colorado, you can have your windshield tinted at 70%, your front side windows at 35% and the rear sides and back darker.