Window Tint Percentages Explained
Window tint isn’t just about looks—it plays a big role in comfort, UV protection, interior preservation, and even safety. But if you’ve ever shopped for tint, you’ve probably heard terms like “5%”, “20%”, or “70%” thrown around and wondered what they actually mean.
At Tailored Garage, we break down the numbers and laws so you can make an informed decision that matches your style and stays street legal.
What Does Window Tint Percentage Mean?
The percentage in window tint refers to Visible Light Transmission (VLT)—how much visible light the film allows to pass through the glass.
For example:
5% VLT means only 5% of light passes through (very dark, also called “limo tint”)
35% VLT allows 35% of visible light through (medium tint)
70% VLT allows 70% of light through (very light tint)
Lower % = darker tint. Higher % = lighter tint.
This percentage affects how much visibility you have looking out, how much outsiders can see in, and how much heat and UV protection you’ll get.
Common Tint Percentages & Their Uses…
5% – Limo Tint
Very dark, used for privacy
Illegal on front windows in most states
Often used on rear windows or commercial vehicles
Low visibility at night
15% – Dark Privacy Tint
Offers serious privacy
Great heat rejection and glare reduction
Popular for rear windows
Still illegal on front windows in WA
20% – Factory Match
Common match for factory rear privacy glass
Looks clean and cohesive when paired with rear factory tint
Still too dark for front windows in WA
35% – Legal Limit in Washington (Front Side Windows)
Offers noticeable shading while maintaining good visibility
Legal on front driver and passenger windows
A great balance of style and functionality
50% – Subtle, Legal, and Clean
Lightly tinted
Provides moderate heat and UV rejection
Legal on all windows in Washington
Ideal for clients who want a cleaner, OEM-style look
70% – Ceramic Performance with Almost No Tint Look
Very light—nearly invisible
Often used in ceramic IR films where performance > darkness
Great for windshields (where legal)
High-end cars often use this for heat and UV without changing aesthetics
What’s Legal in Washington State?
Washington has specific window tint laws you’ll want to follow:
Front side windows: Must allow at least 24% VLT
Rear side and back windows: Any darkness allowed
Windshield: No tint allowed, except for the top 6 inches (AS-1 line)
Medical exemptions may apply in special cases but require a state permit.
Disclaimer: Always check current state regulations or ask us directly—we stay up-to-date so you don’t have to worry.
Why Ceramic Tint Is the Best Choice…
If you're looking for performance, not just looks, ceramic window tint is unmatched. It blocks:
99% of UV rays
Up to 80% of infrared heat
Without going too dark or reflective
You can get the comfort and protection of a darker tint without actually making the glass look blacked out. That’s why we recommend ceramic tint to most of our clients, especially in luxury and exotic vehicles.
Front Match Tinting: Completing the Factory Look…
If your car came with factory rear privacy glass (typically around 20%), we can apply a matching film to your front side windows—usually 35% to stay legal and visually balanced.
We also offer options to ceramic tint your windshield with ultra-light 70% film for heat rejection without darkening the glass.
Our Recommendations Based on Goals…
GoalRecommended VLTMaximum privacy5% – 15% (rear only)OEM/factory match20% rear, 35% frontLegal all around35%+ front, any rearUV & heat protection without dark look50% – 70% ceramicShow car aestheticsCustom blend (consult us)
Final Thoughts: Style Meets Function…
Choosing the right window tint isn’t just about going as dark as possible—it’s about getting the right blend of performance, legality, and appearance that fits your lifestyle.
At Tailored Garage, we only install top-tier films like ceramic IR and carbon nano options that offer the best in performance, clarity, and longevity. Whether you're looking for sleek aesthetics or maximum heat rejection, we'll walk you through the right setup for your vehicle.
Let us help you tint with precision.
Tailored Garage
Precision. Protection. Perfection.