Tint percentage is one of the most common questions we get at our Chatsworth shop. The number sounds technical, but it is simple once you know what it means, and picking the right one makes a big difference in how your car looks and how comfortable it feels.
Here is a quick guide to the most popular shades and how to choose.
What the percentage means
The percentage is how much visible light passes through the window. This is called VLT, or visible light transmission. A lower number means a darker window. So 5 percent is very dark, while 70 percent is very light.
Keep in mind that the number describes the look, not the heat rejection. With a quality ceramic film, even a light shade can block a lot of heat, so you are not stuck choosing between comfort and a legal shade.
The popular shades at a glance
5 percent is often called limo tint. It gives maximum privacy and a bold, blacked out look. It is a favorite for rear windows on SUVs and for drivers who want their cabin fully private.
20 percent is dark and sleek while still easy to see out of from the inside. It is one of the most requested shades for rear glass.
35 percent is a balanced, classy look. It adds a clear tinted appearance without feeling dark from the driver seat.
50 and 70 percent are light shades. They keep the factory look while still cutting heat and glare, especially when you choose ceramic.
What California allows
In California the front side windows need to let in at least 70 percent of visible light, which is why a light ceramic film is such a smart choice up front. It keeps you legal and still blocks a real amount of heat.
Rear side windows and the back glass can generally go as dark as you like, as long as the car has side mirrors on both sides. For the windshield, a strip along the very top is allowed. There are also medical exemptions for drivers who need extra protection from sunlight.
Rules can be updated, so we always walk you through the current requirements for your car before we tint. Our goal is a car you love that also keeps you out of trouble.
How to pick the right shade
Start with how you use the car. If you drive at night a lot or want the easiest visibility, a lighter shade with ceramic film is great. If privacy is the priority, say for kids in the back or valuables in the cargo area, go darker on the rear windows.
Many of our customers do a legal light ceramic up front and a darker shade in the back. It looks sharp, keeps the whole cabin cool, and gives rear passengers privacy.
Car color matters too. Dark tint looks especially clean on black and dark gray cars, and a medium shade can look very sharp on white cars like the BMW X7 in our photo.
See the shades in person
The easiest way to decide is to see the films on real glass. We have samples at our shop in Chatsworth so you can compare shades side by side and feel the heat difference before we start.
Want the full details on how we do it? Read more about our Window Tinting service at WRPD in Chatsworth, serving the greater Los Angeles area.
Common questions
What is the most popular tint percentage?+
A light legal ceramic on the front windows with 20 or 35 percent on the rear windows is one of our most requested setups.
Does darker tint block more heat?+
Not always. Heat rejection comes mostly from the film type. A light ceramic film can block more heat than a darker dyed film.
Is 5 percent tint legal in California?+
It is generally allowed on the rear side windows and back glass, but not on the front side windows. We will confirm the current rules for your car before installing.
Can I see the shades before choosing?+
Yes. Come by the shop and we will show you samples on real glass so you can pick with confidence.
Still deciding on a shade? Visit WRPD at 9362 Eton Avenue in Chatsworth or call (747) 220-0200 and we will help you choose. We serve drivers from Northridge, Porter Ranch, Granada Hills, Canoga Park, Simi Valley, and the rest of the greater Los Angeles area.