The Different Window Tint Percentages for Cars, Explained

What are the different window tint percentages for cars and which should you choose? We explain the need to know answers in this guide.

Are you looking for ways to make your vehicle more energy efficient? Do you want to make a car that's beautiful on the inside and outside? If so, then you have to look into different window tint percentages. 

Doing so can help you figure out the right tint for your needs. The different car window tint percentages allow vehicle owners to create their dream look. However, window tinting does much more than improving the layout of your car. 

See below for an in-depth guide on the different window tint percentages and how you can choose the right window tint for you.

How to Choose the Right Window Tint Percentages

Those of you that are unfamiliar with window tint might assume that they all come in the same, dark color. That couldn't be further from the truth.

In fact, window film manufacturers create window film in many different tint percentages, giving their clients more opportunities for customization. For example, while one client might wish for the darkest tint available, another client might want one that has nearly zero tints to show off the beautiful interior of their luxury car.

There are many different tint options out there, but the most standard options are 5-percent, 20-percent, 35-percent, and 50-percent. Be mindful of which ones are and aren't legal in the state of Florida—more on that in a bit. 

The lower the percentage goes, the less light that is allowed inside your car. 5-percent window tints aren't allowed in most states. 20-percent and 30-percent tints are the most commonly seen. They're noticeable, but not overly dark, which makes them a popular choice for car owners far and wide.

If you wish to be like Goldilocks and find a window tint percentage that's "just right", then be sure to hire a professional auto window tinting service right away.

Understanding the Florida Window Tinting Laws

There are several common questions we get regarding auto window tint. What's the darkest tint that's legal in the state of Florida? Would a cop really pull me over for it? How can they tell when I do or do not have too dark of window tint?

Let's start with the last two. Yes, it's possible that a cop would pull you over if they feel that your windows are violating the law. It's considered a nonmoving violation and can result in a ticket. Like any other traffic violation, the penalties/fines get steeper if you're a repeat offender. 

As far as how they can tell when you're violating the law, some cops carry a VLT (Visible Light Transmittance) meter. Some experts indicate that up to 1 of every 5 Florida cops carry this meter with them while on patrol.

As for Florida window tinting laws, the state looks for two distinct categories: window tint darkness and window tint reflection. 

The legal window tint darkness depends on the type of vehicle you drive. For sedans, your front side windows must allow 28-percent or more light in, and your back side windows and rear windows have to allow at least 15-percent in.

For SUVs and larger vehicles, your back side windows and rear windows only have to allow 6-percent (or more) of light inside.

For window tint reflection, the standards are the same for all car types: front side windows cannot be more than 25-percent reflective. Back side windows can't be more than 35-percent reflective.

The Benefits of Tinted Windows

For those of you that are still on the fence about getting window tinting in St. Augustine, here are a few benefits you can't pass up.

UV Light Protection

The Florida sun can be unforgiving to your vehicle's interior. Without any way to stop the sun rays from sneaking in, your interior can become discolored, cracked, or warped from the immense heat.

Auto window film can help protect your car from those unwanted ultraviolet rays. Trusted film brands like LLumar Window Film will block 99-percent of all the UV rays that are trying to make their way into your car.

As a result, you can help protect the value of your car. Window tint will keep the inside of your car in pristine condition. This will intrigue interested car buyers when you go to sell it one day!

Security and Privacy

Window film won't just protect you from UV rays. It can also give you more peace of mind while you drive your family around town.

Since the window film is applied adhesively, it can strengthen the integrity of your windows and prevent them from shattering due to blunt force. This can prevent attempted break-ins, flying debris during a high-wind storm, and so on.

Darker window tint can also give you and your family more privacy. While you're driving, those on the road with you won't be able to see inside your car. 

It can also prevent attempted theft. Darker window tints have a mirrored feature, which means people won't be able to see the belongings inside your car. Car burglars are far less likely to break into a car they can't see inside of.

Invest in Different Window Tint Percentages for Your Cars

Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on the different window tint percentages for cars in Florida, be sure to use this information to your advantage. Find the window tint you want to install on your vehicle!

Take the time to read this article for more information on how to choose a window tinting service for your vehicle. To get a free estimate, call us directly at 904-806-5996 and All About Tint will be happy to assist you further.