Window Tinting
Window Tint Percentages Explained: Visual Guide with Photos
Blackout Team· Window Tinting Experts
·5 min read
Complete visual guide to window tint percentages from 5% limo to 70% clear. See what each VLT looks like inside and outside, plus California law compliance.
Window Tint Percentages Explained: Visual Guide with Photos
Choosing the right window tint darkness can be overwhelming. What does "20% tint" actually mean? How dark is "limo tint"? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about window tint percentages, with visual examples to help you decide.
Understanding VLT (Visible Light Transmission)
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission—the percentage of light that passes through your tint.
Key concept: Lower VLT = darker tint
| VLT Percentage | Common Name | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| 5% | Limo Tint | Very dark, hard to see in |
| 15-20% | Dark | Dark but can see silhouettes |
| 35% | Medium | Balanced look, good visibility |
| 50% | Light | Light appearance, clear inside |
| 70% | Clear | Nearly invisible, maximum clarity |
5% Window Tint (Limo Tint)
What it looks like: Virtually black from outside. Very difficult to see inside, even in daylight.
Best for:
- Rear windows only
- Maximum privacy
- Limousines and show cars
- Vehicles stored in garages
California legality: ❌ Illegal on front windows. Legal only on rear side windows and rear windshield.
Daytime visibility: Looking out is still possible but visibility is reduced, especially at night.
Who chooses 5%: Privacy-focused owners, show cars, vehicles that don't drive much at night.
15% Window Tint
What it looks like: Very dark exterior appearance. Silhouettes visible inside during bright daylight.
Best for:
- Rear windows
- Security/privacy needs
- Hot climates (maximum heat rejection when combined with ceramic)
California legality: ❌ Illegal on front windows. Legal on rear.
Night visibility: Significant visibility reduction. Not recommended for front windows even where legal.
Who chooses 15%: Those who want darker than 20% without going full limo.
20% Window Tint
What it looks like: Dark, sleek appearance. Occupants barely visible during the day.
Best for:
- Rear windows
- Popular "matched" look (same all around the back)
- Good balance of privacy and visibility
California legality: ❌ Illegal on front windows. Legal on rear.
Night visibility: Reduced but manageable on rear windows.
Who chooses 20%: Most popular choice for rear windows. Classic dark tint look.
35% Window Tint
What it looks like: Medium appearance. Occupants visible in direct sunlight.
Best for:
- All-around protection
- Those who want some privacy without going too dark
- Front windows in states where legal
California legality: ❌ Illegal on front windows (requires 70% VLT). Legal on rear.
Night visibility: Good visibility. Comfortable for night driving.
Who chooses 35%: Popular choice for rear in combination with lighter fronts.
50% Window Tint
What it looks like: Light tint, noticeable but not dramatic. Clear view inside.
Best for:
- UV protection with minimal appearance change
- Heat rejection without dark look
- Those who want subtle enhancement
California legality: ❌ Illegal on front windows. Legal on rear.
Night visibility: Nearly unchanged from factory glass.
Who chooses 50%: Those prioritizing heat/UV over privacy and appearance.
70% Window Tint
What it looks like: Nearly invisible. Only noticeable if you know it's there.
Best for:
- Windshields (California legal)
- Front windows in California
- Maximum heat rejection with legal compliance
- Luxury vehicles where you want protection but not appearance change
California legality: ✅ Legal everywhere including windshield (with proper film)
Heat rejection: Premium ceramic 70% films like 3M Crystalline still reject 40%+ of heat.
Who chooses 70%: Those who want heat rejection on front windows while staying California legal.
California Window Tint Laws Summary
| Window Location | Legal VLT Requirement |
|---|---|
| Front Windshield | 70%+ with AS-1 line exception |
| Front Side Windows | 70%+ |
| Rear Side Windows | Any darkness |
| Rear Windshield | Any darkness |
Important exceptions:
- Medical exemptions available
- Manufacturer's AS-1 line (top 4 inches of windshield)
- Factory tint doesn't count against your aftermarket tint
Common Tint Combinations
The Classic (Most Popular)
- Front windows: 70% ceramic (CA legal, heat rejection)
- Rear side windows: 20%
- Rear windshield: 20%
Maximum Legal Privacy
- Front windows: 70% ceramic
- Rear side windows: 5%
- Rear windshield: 5%
Subtle Enhancement
- Front windows: 70% ceramic
- Rear side windows: 35-50%
- Rear windshield: 35%
Heat Focus (EVs and Glass Roofs)
- Windshield: 70% Crystalline
- Front windows: 70% Crystalline
- Rear windows: 40-50% Crystalline
- Glass roof: 40% Crystalline
Ceramic vs. Regular Tint at Each Percentage
An important note: the same VLT percentage performs very differently depending on film type.
For example, 70% ceramic film may reject MORE heat than 20% dyed film, despite being much lighter.
This is why we recommend ceramic film for Californians:
- Legal on front windows (70% VLT)
- Better heat rejection than dark dyed films
- No signal interference
- Longer lifespan
How to Choose Your Tint Percentage
Ask yourself:
- What's my priority? Privacy vs. visibility vs. heat rejection
- Do I drive at night often? Darker tints reduce night visibility
- Is my car garaged? Garaged cars can go darker comfortably
- Front window legal compliance? 70% is the only option in California
- What look do I want? Match front/rear or go darker in back?
See It In Person
Photos can only convey so much. The best way to choose is to see samples on your actual vehicle.
At Blackout Window Tinting in Gilroy, we have sample films you can hold up to your windows to preview different percentages. We'll also show you installed vehicles in our shop.
Schedule a Tint Consultation or call 408-848-8468.
31+ years
The team at Blackout Window Tinting has been serving the Bay Area since 1993, providing premium window tinting and vehicle protection services.
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