How to Choose the Perfect Window Tint Percentage for Your Car

Car Tint Percentage Options

From 5% to 90%, there is a wide variety of window tint options. The percentage refers to the amount of VLT (visible light transmission) that can come through the windows. 

Thus, the lower the percentage is, the darker the tint is.

A 50% tint is a great option if you don't want complete darkness on your windows. It'll only block half the light coming into your vehicle, but it still blocks out UV rays and heat. Plus, it'll still reduce eye strain and glare, which makes for safer driving.

A 35% tint will give you more darkness, but it's still easy to see through. Drivers like this tint because of it's stylish and sleek aesthetic.

If privacy is your purpose for tinting, a 20% tint is an excellent choice. You can see through windows with a 20% tint if you're up close, but it's still difficult. Typically, it's enough to deter snoopers, though.

When vehicles come with a factory tint, it's usually between 15% and 20%.



A 5% is the darkest tint you can get, and you can't see through 5% tinted car windows at all. In most states, a 5% tint is illegal. It's most commonly used on the back windows of private cars and limousines.

Tips for Choosing the Best Tint Percentage

One crucial factor in determining what percentage tint to get for your vehicle is the legal tint percentage in your state.

There are laws for each state that you must follow when choosing a window tint percentage for your vehicle. If you opt to install a film that lets in less percentage than your state's law dictates, you run the risk of getting pulled over and hit with costly tickets. Eventually, you'll have to remove the film and replace it with one that satisfies your state's laws.

In the end, it'll cost you more trouble than it's worth.



Let's take a look at some other tips for knowing what the best tint percentage is for you.

Consider the Look of Your Car

Remember that tinting your car changes the look of it unless you go with a significantly high percentage rating. Your interior will feel different with tinted windows, and your exterior will boast a different aesthetic. 

Decide what look you're going for to help determine what car tint percentage you choose.



If you're worried about it looking too dark, err on the side of caution.

Determine Why You Want Tint

What's the reason for wanting to tint your car? Do you want complete privacy? Do you want to protect yourself and your car from harmful UV rays?

The car tint percentage you choose depends on what you want the film to do.

If UV rays are your main concern, but you don't want darker windows, you can get a translucent film with little to no darkness that still blocks almost 100% of the sun's UV rays. The film will still protect you from those harmful rays and keep your vehicle's interior looking new.

If you want to keep your car safer and reduce the risk of a break-in, go with a darker film.



If you want to help alleviate light-induced migraines and enjoy a more comfortable driving experience, go with a percentage that keeps out a lot of light, but doesn't darken your windows entirely.

Pick a High-Quality Film

No matter the tint percentage you choose, always go with a film that's high-quality. What this means is that you should buy the film from a professional window tinting shop rather than opting for a film you can buy online.

More often than not, retailer films have shorter lifespans, which means you'll spend more in the long run when you have to replace them more often.



Investing in professional-grade film and having it installed by expert window tinters will help you save in the long run. Plus, the quality film adds value to your vehicle and keeps your car looking great, longer.

Look at Other Cars

When you start thinking about tinting your vehicle, start looking at other cars driving on the road. Talk with your professional installation team and discuss different types and percentages of window films. You can ask to see samples and how they look on cars before you choose your tint percentage.



Any professional window tint installer should have photos you can look at so that you can get an idea of how your car will look.

Get It Professionally Done

It's possible to install your own car window tint, but it's not recommended. Installing window tint requires training and expertise to ensure the film doesn't bubble up. 

If your film bubbles, your car will look run-down over time. It could also end up fading or changing colors after just a few months after installation.



Professional installers will offer a warranty and quality workmanship. Plus, they'll help you decide on a tint percentage for your car and ensure your choice falls in line with state laws. 

Which Window Tint Percentage Is Right for You?

Are you still wondering which window tint percentage is the best choice for your car? From blocking UV rays to giving yourself some more privacy, there are many things to consider.

The best tint percentage for your vehicle is one that'll satisfy all your purposes for getting tint in the first place.

Are you ready to decide what tint percentage is the best choice for your ride? Contact us at Flying Window Tinters for a free estimate and with any questions or concerns!