Levels of Window Tint

Tinting the windows of a vehicle can add a sleek look.

Adding tint to a window can make a customized vehicle stand out, or it can emphasize the lines and contours of an average car. Tint also helps keep the sun from damaging and heating the inside of a vehicle.

Low Percentages

If a window tint is described as being a 5 percent tint, it means that 5 percent of the light that hits the window will pass through and into the car. The lower the number, the darker the interior of the car will seem to people on the outside.

High Percentages

If a window is described as being 70 percent tinted, it meas that 70 percent of the light that hits the window will pass through and enter the vehicle. The higher the number, the more light passes through the tint and into the vehicle. This will make it easier for people to see in and for light to enter.

State Laws

Most states allow a certain amount of tint on automobile windows. No states allow more than 6 inches at the top of the windshield to be tinted. Most states have strict laws governing the front side windows, and less strict laws governing the rear side windows. For example, Virginia allows the front side windows to be 50 percent tinted, while the rear sides can be 35 percent.

References

• Auto Window Tinting: Laws and Terms Explained
• TintCenter.com: Window Tint Laws