Car Window Tinting: Understanding Tinting Percentages
Before getting window tinting, you have to know the laws around it. Here's what you should know about car window tinting percentages.
Did you know that in Florida, when you get a ticket for car tinting that's too dark, each fine will be $116? There are different light requirements for each of your windows and your window tinting percentages will need to accommodate that. At least 28% of light needs to come through your side windows in the front and the other windows have requirements as well.
The laws regarding car window tinting vary from state to state, and the level of observation around this may vary from city to city. This can make things complicated to follow for any driver. While all states allow you to have some level of factory tint on your windows, others have more specific laws regarding the darkness or transparency of the film.
Keep reading to learn more about car tinting percentages and what you should be aware of to avoid a ticket.
Florida Window Tinting Percentages
As mentioned, every car will have a level of factory tinting. Florida, however, does require drivers to comply with certain regulations around window tinting percentages. In general, Florida's tint percentage is 28% but there are specific rules for different areas of your vehicle.
To get a better perspective of this; Florida drivers can have their windshields tinted but it's important to note that this only applies above the AS-1 line. That line covers the area from the top of the window to the rear-view mirror area. Also, every window of your vehicle cannot have a dark tint.
This would be considered illegal as it would compromise the way you can see out of your vehicle. The general idea is that when your tint is darker your percentage will be lower and if your tint is lighter the higher the percentage will be.
What Are the General Rules for Window Tinting?
The legal limit for tint percentage will depend on placement. You have to also consider the placement of your rear windows. To comply with Florida state laws the windows in the back can only have tint applied within 6 inches from the top of the window.
Reflection points are also taken into consideration and for windows that you might have in the back the capacity for reflectors should be around 35%. There will only be a 10% difference between the rear and front windows with the front windows only requiring 25%.
To remain compliant, you should also know that a mandatory sticker should be given once you have your windows tinted. This sticker should be inside the door jam of the car on the driver's side. The point of this is to show that you have a legal tint percentage and that you were made aware of this once the tint was complete.
Keep in mind that this is also beneficial if you are driving outside of Florida. Having this sticker will show that you are up to standard with regulations provided by the state you live in.
What About Exemptions?
There are special exemptions for those that might have a medical reason. In Florida, these exemptions will apply to Lupus, vitiligo, and dermatomyositis among other conditions. These exemptions will need to be signed off by a physician and if you have a concern about whether a diagnosis you receive qualifies you for an exemption, you can check the Florida DMV office or speak to your PCP.
Aside from medical exemptions, certain personnel is also exempt. You may notice that different law enforcement vehicles are allowed to have darker car tint percentages. This could include undercover units, Florida law enforcement officers, as well as other official unit vehicles.
Tint Percentages Differ Based on Your Vehicle
Also, things may differ based on the type of vehicle you drive. If you’ll be driving a van, your rear windows will need to allow 6% of visible light transmission (VLT). If you’re driving a car, it will be a bit different where your rear windows will need to allow 15%.
Other Specifics You Should Know
When trying to get a window tint, you should know a few things to make sure you don't risk potential fines. As we mentioned, always remember to have a sticker identifying that your tint was done properly and by Florida regulations. This also means that in the case you're pulled over the actual tint percentage of your window should match what is on the sticker that was provided to you.
So, if you have your tint modified at all, you will need an updated identifier. While this sticker is required, those that manufacture the film used for tinting aren't required to present any certification for doing so.
When deciding on specifics for your tint, you should be aware that specific colors can't be one of them. In the state of Florida, colored tint isn't allowed. Also, if you have your rear windows tinted, having dual side mirrors will be required.
In the case that rules and regulations change for car tinting in Florida, it's best to check the state's DMV site before getting it done for your vehicle. To make things easier, working with an automotive specialist that has expertise in not only car tint but in tint based on Florida's laws, will help.
High-Quality Auto Tinting
Keeping up with tinting percentages in Tampa, FL will keep you from getting fined. Working with a tinting specialist who complies with regulations in Tampa will make this easier for you to do.
Leo's Touch Window Tinting works to provide high-quality tinting services while limiting harmful UV rays that can affect you through your car windows and by reducing the amount of heat that transfers through your windows as well. Get in touch with our team for a free estimate today.
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