Your Guide to Window Tint Percentages

Here Some Common Terms To Understand

While thinking of types of window tint and the shades they are available in, it helps to know some of the terms you might hear as you start shopping for the ideal solution for you. These terms include:

Front Side Windows

In window tinting practices, front side windows include the driver’s side and the passenger window. The windshield isn’t included as it won’t be tinted. However, there’s a shade band that can be installed from the top of the windshield. 

Rear Side Windows

Rear side windows refer to any side windows behind the two front-side windows. These windows will be tinted as well.

Tint Reflection

This term is usually used for reflective window films. In particular, the term is used for metallic films. 

Restricted Colors

Chances are you’ll come across this term as well, especially when choosing a window shade for your car. The term simply means that the tint isn’t legal in your state.

Auto Window Tint Options

As we hinted earlier, car window tint comes in a wide array of options when it comes to shade percentage. Generally, a car window tint’s percentage refers to its visible light transmission (VLT). Generally, the lower the VLT, the darker the shade of your car window tint will be. 

Here are the window tint percentages you can choose from:

Fifty-Percent Tint

This tint percentage is arguably the best of all. It’s the ideal shade for car owners not looking for darkness inside their vehicles. 



The tint blocks half of the light from coming into your vehicle without creating an overly dark effect inside the car. It also keeps out UV radiation and heat, which improves safety and comfort levels. Besides, this shade is excellent for minimizing glare and eye strain, making it easier to drive the car.

Thirty-Five Percent Window Film

35 percent tint offers a darker appearance than the 50 percent tint. However, this shade is still quite easy to see through. People who prefer this percentage love the smooth, sleek look it gives the car. 



Because the window tint is darker compared to the 50 percent tint, it provides more privacy. 

Twenty-Percent Tint

For drivers concerned about added privacy, a 20 percent window film is even better than the options above. This shade makes it more difficult for people to see inside unless they’re up close. That quality alone is enough to stop most snoops and criminals.



If your vehicle came with built-in tint from the factory, chances are it’s in this percentage. 

Five Percent Window Tint

Five percent window tint is the darkest of all options. It’s the kind of tint you want if you’re looking for ultimate security. 

Unfortunately, this percentage is illegal in the majority of states. However, the window tint is allowed in exceptional cases, such as in limousines.



Five percent window tint blocks all view, making it impossible for people to see into the vehicle.

So How Do You Decide Which Tint Percentage Is Ideal for You?

It depends on your preference, and whether the laws in your state permit the tint percentage you’re considering. 

When it comes to preference, ask yourself exactly what you’re looking for in a car window tint. If privacy is your top concern, then you want a lower percentage. 

That said, be sure to talk to your window tint installer to find out what the law in your state says about window tint percentages. Every state has its specific rules on the maximum percentage allowed for auto window tints. In most cases, the laws are different for vans, SUVs, and cars. 

In some states, the front, rear, and back windows of cars must allow at least 35 percent light in. In other states, as long as the front side windows aren’t tinted, any windows behind the driver can use any window tint percentage. 



The most important thing is to familiarize yourself with the specific rules in your state before making the final decision on what tint percentage to use. Most reputable window service professionals will already have this information. 

Choosing a Car Window Tint Service

Getting your car window tinting done right starts with choosing the right professional for the job. Start by asking around for recommendations. People you know are the best sources of information on which service providers to check out. 

Make a list of a few potential tint installers to check out and pay them a visit. While there, inquire about such essential things as experience and whether they offer service warranties. Find out have a wide variety of window tint types and percentages to choose from. 



Remember to ask for a quote and compare it with other service providers. You want to know what exactly you’re paying for. 

Get the Right Auto Window Tint Percentage for Your Car

Car owners who’ve never had their vehicles tinted underestimate the complexity of the task. Getting the right type and percentage of window tint requires diligence and careful planning. Moreover, you need to work with the right auto window tint service provider to get the best results.

Are you interested in a dependable car window tinting service in your area? Please contact us at Metropolitan Tinting today.