What You Need to Know About Car Window Tint Percentages

A Higher Window Tint Percentage Doesn't Equal Darker Windows 

You might think a higher window tint percentage will give your darker windows, but actually, the opposite is true. Window tint percentages give you the VLT, or Visible Light Transmission, of the film. This refers to the amount of light that can get through the film after you've applied it to your windows. 

For example, window tint with a VLT of 50% blocks half the sunlight shining on your windows from reaching the interior. Film that has a VLT of 35%, on the other hand, keeps the other 65% from getting into your car. Because less light can get through, the window tint with 35% VLT will look darker than the 50% VLT. 



If you want to upgrade your ride with dark, sleek windows, make sure you choose a low VLT percentage. 

So How Dark Can You Go?

The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including things like: 

• Where you live 
• What windows you're tinting 
• Your goals for the tint 
• Your budget 
• Etc. 

It's important to remember that every state has its own laws when it comes to tinting your car's windows. If you live in Florida, you can't tint your side windows with a film that's any lower than 25% VLT. You can tint the back windows, though, as low as 15% VLT.



You may be able to go darker if you have a medical condition, such as Lupus. However, you'll need to acquire a medical exemption certificate before tinting your windows. 

What Happens If You Go Darker Than the Legal Car Tint Limit?

Odds are you'll get pulled over by the cops. They'll then give you a fine (which can be several hundred dollars in some cases) and order you to remove the window tint. If you refuse, the consequences will continue to get more severe. 



It's not worth trying to cheat the system and go darker than the legal car tint limit in your state. It will just cost you more time, money, and hassle later. 

How to Pick the Right Car Window Tint Percentages for Your Ride 

Just because you might be able to go as low as 15% VLT doesn't mean that's the right choice for your vehicle. Before you spend any money on window tint, make sure you follow these tips. 

1. Ask Yourself Why You're Tinting Your Windows

Why do you want to tint your windows? Are you trying to keep the heat out of your car? Prevent the upholstery from fading? Do you want more privacy on the road?

If privacy is your goal, you'll want to go as dark as the law allows. However, for other reasons, you can pick a higher LVT percentage. 



It's a good idea to talk to a window tinting professional as you're making your decision. They can recommend the best percentages for each need. 

2. Don't DIY 

Applying window tint is a complicated job. If you don't have all the right tools and know-how, it can be easy to make mistakes.



On top of that, you may not know exactly what you're buying. You might end up applying tint that is too dark for your state without realizing it. Once you figure out what happened, you'll have to spend more money to remove it and replace it with a different film. 

3. Hire a Reputable Window Tint Professional 

Don't pick the cheapest window tinting company you can find. Price tends to reflect quality, and a cheap company might not adhere to state laws when it comes to VLT percentages. 

Instead, do your research. 



Picking a company that charges a little more for their window tinting services will give you better results and ensure you aren't unknowingly breaking the law. Reputable window tinting companies will only apply legal tint, so you can feel secure in your purchase. 

Benefits of Tinting Car Windows 

Is spending money on window tint even worth the cost? The short answer is yes. Here's a closer look at some of the best benefits of tinting your car's windows.

Keeps the Car Cool 

Window tinting does just block the sunlight. It also keeps the heat from getting into your car as well. This means you won't have to run the AC as often, and you'll be more comfortable as you drive. 

Protects the Upholstery 

The sun's UV rays can cause the upholstery on your seats to fade or even crack over time. While this might not be a major concern if you have a garage, tinting your windows can help the interior of your car last a lot longer if you spend a lot of time on the road or parking outdoors. 

Prevents Sunburns 

You may not think you have to worry about the sun when you're safe in your car. However, some of the sun's rays still shine through the windows, and while they might not leave you with a traditional sunburn, they can still damage your skin. Tinting your windows will help you stay healthy on your commute to and from work. 

Gives You More Privacy 

Don't like other drives starring inside your car when you're at a stoplight? Window tinting can darker your windows and give you more privacy. You can rock out to your favorite songs without feeling self-conscious!

Makes Your Car Look Sleek 

There's no way around it: window tint just looks cool. Tinting your windows gives your car a beautiful, sleek appearance. You'll enjoy driving your car much more if you're proud of how it looks. 

Scheduling Your Auto Window Tint Appointment Today 

Now that you know what car window tint percentages mean, you can pick the best film for your vehicle. Need some help narrowing down the choices?

Don't wait to get in touch with our team at Solarwaves Window Tinting. We'll help you pick the right tint for your ride and apply it for you, so go ahead and schedule your appointment or get a free quote  today!