Two questions decide every tint job in San Diego: how dark can you legally go, and what film technology are you buying? California law answers the first — 70% VLT on front side windows. The second decides whether your tint actually rejects heat or just looks dark.
Tint here isn't cosmetic — it's climate control. Ceramic film rejects the infrared heat that turns cabins into ovens and blocks 99% of the UV that fades interiors and burns skin on long commutes.
California tint law at a glance
Police meter the combined darkness of glass plus film, and factory glass already blocks a few percent — so a quality shop measures the finished result, not the box label. Full statute details on our California tint law guide.
| Glass | Rule (passenger cars) |
|---|---|
| Windshield | Top 4 inches only. |
| Front side windows | 70% VLT or lighter |
| Back side windows | Any darkness |
| Rear window | Any darkness |
| Reflectivity | Film may not be more reflective than a standard window. |
What tint costs in San Diego
The price gap between dyed and ceramic film is roughly $100–$200 on a sedan — and it's the most consequential $150 in this industry. Dyed film darkens; nano-ceramic film like ULTRASHIELD SHADOW rejects heat and blocks 99% of UV at any legal darkness, without interfering with phone, GPS, or toll transponders.
| Vehicle | Ceramic tint, typical installed price |
|---|---|
| Coupe / 2-door | $249 – $449 |
| Sedan (all sides + rear) | $299 – $549 |
| SUV / truck | $349 – $649 |
| Windshield strip or full windshield (where legal) | $99 – $299 |
| Front-two match (factory privacy glass) | $149 – $249 |
Full statute breakdown: California window tint laws →
Common questions
What's the darkest legal tint in California?+
Does darker tint mean cooler?+
How long does tint take to cure in San Diego's climate?+
Certified ULTRASHIELD installers in San Diego
Trained on SHIELD PPF, STORM ceramic, and SHADOW tint — every install registered with CARFAX.
More answers for San Diego drivers
Pricing reflects typical published US market ranges as of 2026 and varies by vehicle and shop. Laws change — verify current tint statutes with the California DMV. This article is provided by ULTRASHIELD, the manufacturer of SHIELD PPF, STORM ceramic, and SHADOW window films.