What VLT means, what each shade looks like, and what to check before you pick one.
Tint shades are labeled by VLT, or visible light transmission: the percentage of visible light that passes through the glass and film. The lower the number, the darker the tint.
What each shade looks like
- 5% (Limo): very dark. It is hard to see into the car from outside.
- 15% to 20% (Dark): strong privacy. Silhouettes may be visible from outside. 20% is a popular rear-glass choice.
- 35% (Medium): a noticeable tint with comfortable visibility at night.
- 50% (Light): subtle, while still adding heat and UV protection.
- 70% (Clear): nearly invisible, chosen for heat and UV protection rather than looks.
Your factory glass counts too
Many vehicles leave the factory with darker privacy glass on the rear windows. Film stacks on top of the glass, so the final VLT is lower than the film's rating alone. Keep this in mind when matching front and rear windows.
Check your local law first
Tint limits vary by state and by window position. Front side windows usually have stricter limits than rear windows, and most places restrict film on the windshield, often to a strip across the top. Some jurisdictions allow clear films on the windshield; others do not. Always confirm local rules before installing.
Darker is not the only way to stay cool
Ceramic tint uses non-metallic nano-ceramic particles to reject infrared heat, so even lighter shades can make a real difference in cabin temperature. Because it contains no metal, ceramic film does not interfere with phone, GPS, radio or keyless entry signals.
