I’ve been a Cop in California for about 17 years. I’ve dealt with a lot of things but don’t know everything. No-one does. That being said if you have any vehicle code questions or anything like that I’ll do my best to answer it or at least point you in the right direction. Be safe out there.

 

I keep hearing many different stories about allowable tint darkness. What's the rule on how dark can window tint be? Thanks!

 

I will be more specific. Who is allowed to have their windshield tinted

 

You can tint the back and rear side windows as dark as you want, but the front side windows can only have to if it is clear, colorless, and transparent and allows at least 70% light transference. The front windshield can only have the top 4 inches tinted and the 70% light transference also applies.

 

To my knowledge anyone can tint their windows as long as the tint is legal. In some instances people can get a letter from a licensed dermatologist stating they can’t be exposed to sunlight and can even tint the sides and windshield but I have yet to see one of those letters lol but I know they exist.

 

And that 70 percent light transference is measured how?

 

Light transference is measured using a tint meter. And before you ask, no, most cops don’t carry them but if you get a ticket you can go to a tint shop that has one and get a certification showing you're legal and then fight it in court. The best rule of thumb is don’t tint the front side windows and you’ll be fine but regardless of the law, people do it all the time and just pay the ticket or gamble they won’t get stopped.

 

 

Here's a question:
If a police officer pulls you over for speeding and asks, “Do you know how fast you were going?”, is it better to respond with an honest answer saying how fast you were going or to just say you were unaware?

 

The best response is no I don’t know. In actuality even if you think you know you really don’t know because you have no idea what the officer’s radar shows you going so technically that’s true. If you admit to knowingly going over the limit that could be used against you. If you are sure your speedometer is accurate and you actually are certain of your speed then go ahead and answer with a confident yes if you like.