Different Types of Tint Percentages

Common tint percentages are 5%, 20%, 35%, 50%, and 70%. The lower the percentage, the darker the tint, meaning less light passes through the glass. Each type of tint offers different levels of privacy, glare control, and heat reduction.

Whether you're tinting a car, home, or office, choosing the right percentage matters for comfort, compliance with local laws, and overall appearance. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about popular tint levels, what they look like, and how to pick the best option for your needs.

For window tint in Louisville, KY, contact Sun Tint at (502) 254-0001. Our team provides expert advice and professional installation for homes, businesses, and vehicles. 

Common Window Tint Percentages and Their Features

Each window tint percentage serves a different purpose, depending on how much light you want to block and how visible you want the interior to remain. Understanding different tint levels helps you choose the right balance of comfort, style, and compliance with state regulations. The most common tinting levels used in both residential and car window tinting are listed below:

5% Tint: Limo Tint for Maximum Privacy

This is the darkest legal option for most window tinting needs. It allows only 5% of visible light transmission, making it extremely difficult to see inside. This limo tint is often applied to the rear car windows or in commercial settings that require high privacy. While it offers excellent UV protection and heat reduction, tint laws in many states do not permit its use on front windows. Always check your state regulations before choosing this tint level for vehicles.

20% Tint: Factory-Tinted Look

Letting in 20% of light, this window tint provides a darker appearance with good visibility from the inside. It's commonly found as a factory-installed car window tint on SUVs and trucks. It helps block heat and offers strong UV protection while maintaining a sleek look. The 20% tint is widely used for everyday driving comfort and generally complies with most window tinting laws for rear-side windows.

35% Tint: Balanced Performance

The 35% window tint percentage provides a good middle ground between darkness and visibility. It allows moderate light through while still offering protection from glare and heat. Its subtle but stylish appearance makes it popular for drivers who want an effective car window tint that still meets legal guidelines. This level works well in vehicles and buildings by offering reliable UV protection and a noticeable reduction in interior heat.

50% Tint: Light Tint with UV Protection

Allowing 50% of light to pass through, this tint film is ideal for those who want the benefits of window tinting without a dramatic change in window appearance. While it does not provide much tint darkness, it helps cut glare and block some UV rays. It’s often selected for homes or offices where maintaining natural light is essential. 

70% Tint: Barely Noticeable, High Clarity

This is one of the lightest window tints available. Though it appears almost transparent, it still helps reduce heat and blocks a portion of harmful UV rays. It’s commonly used on windshields or front-side windows, especially where darker tint percentages are restricted. This tint level helps preserve visibility while protecting your interior from fading.

How to Choose the Right Tint Percentage

Choosing the right window tint percentage depends on your goals, property or vehicle type, and local tint laws. Some people prefer darker tint levels for privacy and UV protection, while others choose lighter tint percentages for legal compliance and better visibility.

When selecting a car window tint, check your state regulations before choosing a shade. Many states have strict window tinting laws that limit how dark you can go on front-side windows or windshields. For example, while limo tint (5%) is great for privacy, it's often not allowed on front windows.

For homeowners or businesses, window tints with higher light transmission - like 50% or 70% - are usually preferred. These tint films still block harmful UV rays and reduce heat while keeping interiors bright.

Keep in mind that window tinting isn’t just about appearance. Each tint level affects visible light transmission (VLT), which controls how much light passes through the glass. Lower percentages block more light and provide better glare reduction, while higher percentages offer a clearer view and softer finish.

To find the best option, consider the amount of sunlight your windows receive, the level of UV protection you need, and the importance of privacy. Then, match those needs with a legal and practical window tint level that fits your style and location.

Understanding Window Tinting Laws by State

Before choosing a window tint percentage, it’s essential to understand the state regulations that apply to your area. Window tinting laws vary across the U.S. and determine how dark your car window tints can be, especially on windshields and front-side windows.

For example, in Louisville, KY, the law allows:

• Front side windows: Must allow more than 35% visible light transmission

• Back side windows: Must allow more than 18% of light in

• Rear window: Must allow more than 18% of light in

• Windshield: Non-reflective tint films are allowed above the manufacturer's AS-1 line

Violating tinting laws can lead to fines or require removal, so it’s critical to check your local guidelines before installing window tints in your vehicle.

Explore Quality Window Tint Films Installed by Louisville’s Trusted Experts

Choosing the right window tint percentage is about staying compliant and protecting your space from UV damage. Whether you’re upgrading a vehicle, home, or commercial property, expert guidance ensures you get the best results.

At Sun Tint, we understand Kentucky’s tinting laws, and we’re here to help you select legal, effective window tints that fit your needs. From helping you compare tint levels to installing professional-grade tint films, our team delivers clarity, compliance, and comfort.

Call Sun Tint at (502) 254-0001 to schedule your free consultation for window tinting films. 

FAQs

What tint is best for night driving?

For better visibility at night, choose a lighter tint percentage, like 35% or 50%. These tint levels provide glare reduction and UV protection without significantly affecting your ability to see through the car window in low-light conditions.

Is it hard to see out of 20% tint?

A 20% window tint is relatively dark but still allows enough visible light transmission for most daytime driving. At night, visibility can be reduced, especially in poorly lit areas, but it’s easier to see through than limo tint (5%).

How do you tell window tint percentages?

Using a handheld tint meter, you can measure window tint percentages, which checks the visible light transmission through the glass. Professional window tinting shops also use these tools to confirm compliance with state regulations and tinting laws.