Is Window Tint Legal? What Are the Rules?

If you’ve ever thought about getting your windows tinted, you’ve probably asked the same question most drivers do, is it legal? The short answer is yes, window tint is legal in most places. The longer answer is that it depends on how dark and how reflective your tint is, and those details vary from state to state.

Understanding Window Tint Percentages

Every tint is measured by something called Visible Light Transmission (VLT), that’s the percentage of light allowed to pass through the glass. A higher number means a lighter tint. For example, 70% film is very light and almost clear, while 20% looks much darker and provides more privacy.

Each state sets its own VLT limits for different windows on your vehicle. Typically:

• Windshields can only have a small strip of tint at the top (commonly referred to as an “eyebrow” or “visor strip”).

• Front side windows must let in more light, often around 28–35% VLT depending on the state.

• Rear and back windows are usually allowed to be darker.

It’s always best to check the local laws before you tint, because something that’s legal in one state could earn you a ticket just across the border.

Reflectivity and Color Restrictions

Besides darkness, some states regulate how reflective your tint can be. Reflective or “mirror-like” tints may look cool, but they can cause glare for other drivers and even interfere with law enforcement visibility. A few states also prohibit certain colors, like red, amber, or blue, to avoid confusion with emergency vehicles.

Medical and Factory Exceptions

There are a few exceptions. Some states allow darker tints for drivers with medical conditions that make them sensitive to sunlight, such as lupus or certain skin disorders. In those cases, a doctor’s note or state-issued exemption is usually required.

Also, keep in mind that many modern SUVs and trucks come from the factory with tinted “privacy glass” on the rear windows. That’s not a film, it’s colored glass, and it’s perfectly legal. You can still add a light film over it for extra UV protection if you’d like.

What Happens If You Go Too Dark

If your tint doesn’t meet state regulations, you could get pulled over, fined, or required to remove the film. Some inspection stations will even fail your vehicle for illegal tint. While police tend to be less strict than they used to be, it’s not worth the hassle, especially since quality legal tint still provides great heat rejection and privacy.

The Smart Way to Stay Legal

A reputable tint shop will know the laws in your area and can recommend the right film to keep you within the limits. At Mission Tint, we always verify legal VLT percentages for Florida vehicles before any installation. Our goal is to keep your car cooler, protect your interior, and give you that sleek look, without any legal headaches.