Illegal Window Tint
A CVC 26708 citation means one or more of your vehicle windows had tint that did not meet California standards. California law restricts how dark window tint can be depending on which window it is applied to. Removing or replacing non-compliant tint and getting certified resolves this violation.
Correction Window
The deadline is printed on your citation. Remove or replace the non-compliant tint and certify before that date.
Fee After Correction
These steps apply when your ticket was issued as correctable. An officer does not issue it that way if there is evidence of fraud or persistent neglect, the violation presents an immediate safety hazard, or you cannot promptly correct it (Vehicle Code 40610(b)). When the court accepts your proof of correction, the court clerk collects a $25 fee for each corrected violation (Vehicle Code 40611). There is no fee if the agency that cited you handles the correction and nothing is sent to the court (Vehicle Code 40611(c)). Without proof of correction, you may owe the full fine. Check your notice or ask your court for the amount.
Who Can Certify
A police department, the CHP, a sheriff, a marshal or another agency that enforces the Vehicle Code can certify this correction after the non-compliant tint is removed.
The court must dismiss a corrected violation when you deliver proof of correction on or before the date on your ticket (Vehicle Code 40522). After that date it may not accept the correction, and you may owe the full fine. If you fail to appear without good cause, the court may add a civil assessment of up to $100 after mailing you a warning notice (Penal Code 1214.1). Willfully failing to appear, or willfully failing to deliver proof of correction, is a misdemeanor (Vehicle Code 40508 and 40616). If you need more time, ask the court before the date passes.
Step by Step
How to Correct This Violation
- 1
Determine which window or windows have non-compliant tint based on the citation.
- 2
Have the non-compliant tint removed by an auto glass or tint shop.
- 3
If replacing with compliant tint, confirm the new tint meets California requirements before installation.
- 4
Have a law enforcement officer sign the certificate of correction.
- 5
Submit the signed citation and $25 fee to the court before your deadline.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the legal tint limit in California?
- Front side windows: Vehicle Code 26708(d) allows clear, colorless film with at least 88 percent visible light transmittance, made to block ultraviolet A rays, if the window with the film still meets the federal 70 percent minimum and you carry a certificate from the installer (or the film maker if you installed it). Medical exemptions exist with a signed letter or certificate (26708(b)(10) and (e)). Side windows behind the driver are exempt, and so is the rear window if the vehicle has outside mirrors on both sides that each show the road at least 200 feet behind. Windshield: transparent material is allowed along the top if its bottom edge is at least 29 inches above the driver seat, it is not red or amber, and it meets the other 26708(c) conditions.
This guide covers passenger vehicles. Some rules differ for commercial vehicles and truck tractors (for example, where registration tabs go under Vehicle Code 5204(a)). If you were driving one, check with your employer or a licensed attorney.
This guide provides general procedural information only. It is not legal advice. For questions specific to your citation, contact the court listed on your ticket.
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