Quick answer: Tint levels are measured in VLT, the percentage of visible light that gets through. Lower numbers are darker: 5% is limo tint, 15% to 20% is dark, 30% to 35% is medium and 50% to 70% is light. In Florida, the front side windows must be at least 28% and rear windows at least 15% on cars or 6% on SUVs, trucks and vans (s. 316.2953, s. 316.2954).
Common tint levels
| VLT | Look | Florida legality |
|---|---|---|
| 5% | Limo tint, very dark | Not legal on any window without an exemption |
| 15%–20% | Dark, strong privacy | Rear windows only (cars need at least 15%) |
| 30%–35% | Medium, balanced | Legal on all side and rear windows |
| 50% | Light | Legal on all side and rear windows |
| 70%+ | Nearly clear | Legal on side and rear windows; windshield only above AS-1 line |
Darker isn’t always cooler
Shade controls how much light gets in, not how much heat. Ceramic films use non-metallic particles to reject infrared heat, so a legal 30% ceramic film can keep a cabin cooler than a darker dyed film. See window tint options and our post on tint shades for heat rejection.
Your glass changes the number
Factory glass already blocks some light, and many SUVs and trucks have tinted privacy glass in the back. Film is measured on your actual window, so the final reading is lower than the film’s label. We check this so your tint stays legal.
How to choose your tint level
- Daily commuter: 30%–35% on the front sides for a legal, comfortable look
- Privacy: 15%–20% on the rear windows of a car, or as low as 6% on an SUV, truck or van
- Night driving: stay lighter on the rear windows
- Heat: choose ceramic film before going darker
See shades in person
Stop by a CoaterZ shop to compare film samples on real glass. Read our Florida tint law guide and tint cost guide, or go to window tint.
- CoaterZ Palm Harbor: 4824 US-19 ALT · (727) 935-4621
- CoaterZ Lutz: 16235 N Florida Ave · (813) 467-8149
- CoaterZ Sarasota: 2321 Bee Ridge Rd · (941) 297-0125
- Hours: Palm Harbor and Sarasota, Monday to Saturday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM; Lutz, Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM; closed Sunday
Frequently asked questions
What tint percentage is darkest?
The lower the number, the darker the tint. 5% lets in 5% of visible light and is the darkest common shade; 70% is nearly clear.
What is the most popular tint level?
It depends on the vehicle and window. In Florida, many drivers choose the darkest legal shade on each window, which is at least 28% on the front sides.
Does darker tint block more heat?
Not necessarily. Heat rejection depends on the film technology. A lighter ceramic film can reject more heat than a darker dyed film.
Can I see out of 15% tint at night?
Visibility is reduced at night as tint gets darker. If you drive a lot at night, consider a lighter shade on the rear windows.
What tint levels are legal in Florida?
Front side windows at least 28%, rear windows at least 15% on cars or 6% on multipurpose passenger vehicles, per Florida Statutes s. 316.2953 and s. 316.2954.