Windshield Laws in Colorado
Auto repair

Windshield Laws in Colorado

09.11.2022 /

If you drive a vehicle on the roads, you already know that there are many different rules that you must follow. However, in addition to the rules of the road, drivers also need to make sure that their vehicles comply with safety regulations and windshield equipment. The following are Colorado's windshield laws that all drivers must comply with.

windshield requirements

  • All vehicles must have a windshield when driving on Colorado roads. This does not apply to those considered classic or antique and does not include windshields as part of the manufacturer's original equipment.

  • All vehicle windshields must be made of safety insulating glass designed to significantly reduce the chance of glass shattering or breaking when hitting the glass compared to conventional flat glass.

  • All vehicles must have working windshield wipers to remove snow, rain and other forms of moisture from the windshield.

Failure to comply with these requirements is considered a class B traffic violation that carries a fine of between $15 and $100.

Window tinting

Colorado has strict laws governing the tinting of windshields and other vehicle windows.

  • Only non-reflective tinting is allowed on the windshield, and it cannot cover more than the top four inches.

  • Mirror and metallic shades are not allowed on the windshield or any other glass of the car.

  • No motorist is allowed to have a shade of red or amber on any window or windshield.

Failure to comply with these window tinting laws is a misdemeanor that can result in a $500 to $5,000 fine.

Cracks, chips and obstacles

There are no restrictions on cracked or chipped windshields in Colorado. However, motorists must ensure they comply with federal regulations, which include:

  • Cracks that intersect with other cracks in the windshield are not allowed.

  • Cracks and chips must be less than ¾ inch in diameter and cannot be less than three inches from any other crack, chip, or discoloration.

  • Chips, cracks, and discolorations, other than those mentioned above, may not be located between the top of the steering wheel and within two inches below the top edge of the windshield.

  • The driver's vision should not be obstructed by signs, posters or other materials that do not comply with the shade rules or are opaque. Decals that are required by law are allowed in both the lower and upper corners of the windshield.

It is important to remember that the decision on whether to consider any cracks, chips, or discoloration unsafe to drive on Colorado roads is at the discretion of the ticket office.

If you need to inspect your windshield or your wipers aren't working properly, a certified technician like one of AvtoTachki can help you get back on the road safely and quickly so you're driving within the law.

Add a comment