Colorado law regulates the amount of light that can pass through vehicle windows. This regulation, often referred to as window tinting, is defined by Visible Light Transmission (VLT) percentages. A higher VLT percentage allows more light to pass through. For example, a 70% VLT window tint allows 70% of visible light to enter the vehicle. Different VLT percentages are permissible for various vehicle windows, such as windshields, side windows, and rear windows.
Regulating window tinting enhances safety by ensuring driver visibility and allowing law enforcement to see into vehicles. It also offers benefits such as reduced glare, interior protection from UV rays, and increased privacy. These regulations have evolved over time to balance the needs of drivers with public safety concerns. Historically, the lack of standardized rules led to safety issues, prompting the implementation of specific VLT requirements.