Window tint is one of the most practical upgrades you can make to a vehicle in Florida — but get it wrong and you're looking at a fix-it ticket and the cost of removal. Florida's tint laws are specific, and they're enforced. Here's a clear breakdown of what's legal, what we install, and how to stay protected while blocking the heat.
Florida Window Tint Laws — The Basics
Florida regulates tint by the percentage of light that passes through the film, called Visible Light Transmission (VLT). Higher VLT percentage = lighter tint = more light coming through. Lower VLT = darker tint = more privacy and heat rejection.
Windshield
No tint is legally permitted on windshields in Florida. The only exception is a non-reflective tint strip along the top of the windshield above the AS-1 line (typically the top 5–6 inches). This does not apply to the main windshield surface.
We do install windshield film as an optional add-on — but only with films that meet legal requirements and are primarily chosen for UV protection and heat rejection rather than darkness.
Front Side Windows
Must allow 28% or more visible light transmission. This means the film must be 28% VLT or lighter. A 28% tint is relatively light — you can see through it clearly from outside during the day.
Rear Side Windows
Any darkness is permitted on rear side windows in Florida. 5%, 15%, 20% — all legal on rear windows.
Rear Window
Any darkness is permitted, with the same caveat that if the rear window is tinted, the vehicle must have dual side mirrors.
Important: These are Florida state laws. Local law enforcement agencies enforce them, and regulations can change. Always verify current requirements if you have any doubt — we're happy to walk you through options that keep you compliant.
Medical Exemptions
Florida does allow medical exemptions for darker-than-legal tint in certain situations — typically for conditions involving extreme sensitivity to light or UV exposure. A written statement from a licensed physician is required. We recommend consulting your dermatologist or optometrist if you believe you qualify.
Understanding the Shade Scale
The most common question we get: "How dark should I go?" Here's a practical guide to the VLT scale:
- 5% (Limo Dark) — Almost completely opaque from outside. Maximum privacy. Legal on rear windows only.
- 15% (Medium) — The most popular choice for rear windows. Good privacy, still visible in direct light.
- 20% — Slightly lighter than 15%, still provides strong privacy on rear windows.
- 28–30% (Legal Limit) — The darkest legal option for front windows. Visible tint from outside.
- 50% — Almost clear. Primarily chosen for UV protection and heat rejection without visible darkening. Popular for windshields.
- 70% — Nearly invisible. UV block with no visible tint. Often used on windshields and front windows for maximum legality with some protection.
The Heat Rejection Question
Darkness and heat rejection are related — but not the same thing. Shade affects how much visible light passes through. Heat rejection is determined by the type of film.
Our Performance Film (Llumar Pinnacle) rejects 85% of heat. Our Premium Ceramic Film (Llumar Stratos) rejects 95%. Both are available in the same range of darkness levels — so you can have maximum heat rejection at 28% VLT and stay fully legal on front windows.
The #1 thing we hear after installation: "I wish I went darker." This is the Sunshine State. If you're on the fence between two shades, go darker. You'll thank yourself in August.
After Installation: The Curing Period
After tint is installed, do not roll your windows down for 3 full days. The film needs time to fully bond and cure to the glass. You may notice slight haziness or small water bubbles immediately after installation — this is completely normal and resolves as the film cures. Do not attempt to press or push on the film during this period.
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