What Is the Legal Percentage Of Window Tint?

If you’re wondering “what is the legal percentage of window tint?”, it depends on where you live and which windows you’re tinting. Each state in the U.S. has its own rules for how much light can pass through your car windows, which can be confusing if you’re not sure what’s allowed.

In this guide, Cherry Auto Detailing breaks down how tint laws work, what VLT percentages mean, and what’s allowed in different states - plus tips to stay compliant and avoid costly re-tinting or fines.

Key Takeaways

The legal percentage of window tint is based on VLT (Visible Light Transmission) and varies by state, territory, and window type - there is no nationwide standard.
Lower VLT means a darker tint, and laws are enforced using net VLT after installation, not the film rating alone.
Front side windows are usually the most restricted, while rear windows often allow a darker tint depending on local laws.
Tint that exceeds legal limits can lead to fines, failed inspections, or required removal, even if installed elsewhere.
Professional tint installation helps ensure legal compliance, accurate VLT measurement, and avoids costly re-tinting.

A tinted window's VLT (Visible Light Transmission) refers to the percentage of visible light allowed through the window. Window tint films come in varying darkness levels, each allowing a different percentage of light to pass through. For example, if a window enables 70% of the light through, it will be a lighter shade than a window that only allows 15% of the light.

When determining the legality of tinted windows, it is important to measure both Film VLT (the actual percentage of light that is transmitted through the tint film by itself) and Net VLT (the total percentage of light that is transmitted through the tint film plus the factory glass). Laws regarding window tint are enforced based on Net VLT values, not solely on the Film VLT rating.

Location	Front Side VLT	Rear Side VLT	Rear Window VLT	Windshield Tint
California	70%	Any	Any	Top 4" or AS-1 line
Florida	28%	15%	15%	Above AS-1 line only
Texas	25%	25%	Any	Top 5" or AS-1 line
New York	70%	70%	70%	None allowed
Arizona	33%	Any	Any	Top tint strip only
Georgia	32%	32%	32%	Top 6" or AS-1 line
Guam	35%	20%	20%	Top 5 inches or AS-1 line

Conclusion:

Window tint regulations vary by state and territory in the U.S. Before tinting your vehicle, check your local DMV or official state vehicle code to avoid fines or compliance issues.

In Guam, tint law is enforced locally. Tinting darker than the limits may cause inspection failure or traffic fines. Verify the latest requirements with the Guam Department of Revenue & Taxation (Motor Vehicle Division).

Front Side Window Tint Laws Explained

Front-side windows are the most heavily regulated, as they significantly impact driver visibility and law enforcement safety.

Many states require at least 35% VLT or higher
Tint on front windows usually includes UV protection and glare reduction layers

Rear Side And Rear Window Tint Laws

Rear windows are often allowed to be darker for privacy and heat reduction.

Some states have no limits for rear windows
In some states, rear window tint can be as dark as 5% VLT.
SUVs and trucks may have different allowances

Windshield Tint And The AS-1 Line

Most states prohibit full windshield tinting but allow a narrow strip at the top for glare and sun protection:

Typically allowed above the AS-1 line or top 4–6 inches
Tint must be non-reflective and light in color

Yes. In many U.S. states and territories, including Guam, darker window tint may be legally permitted for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as:

Lupus
Photosensitivity
Skin cancer
Other UV-sensitive disorders

To qualify, you typically need:

A doctor’s letter or medical prescription clearly stating the need for reduced UV exposure
Formal approval from your local DMV or regulatory agency

In Guam, medical tint exemptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Guam Department of Revenue & Taxation. If approved, a darker tint may be installed legally. However, exemptions granted in Guam may not be recognized if you travel to other U.S. states or territories.

It’s recommended to keep a copy of your exemption documentation in your vehicle at all times to avoid complications during traffic stops or inspections.

Understanding window tint laws is one thing, but applying them correctly to your vehicle in Guam is another. Regulations vary by VLT percentage, window type, vehicle class, and local enforcement.

Cherry Auto Detailing provides professional window tint service, helping drivers across Guam stay compliant with tint regulations while improving comfort, style, and UV protection.

We help you stay legal and protected:

We stay up to date with Guam’s local tint regulations and inspection requirements.
We offer professional VLT testing to ensure your vehicle meets Guam’s standards before and after installation.
We guide you through medical tint exemption documentation if you qualify for a darker tint due to health reasons.
We use certified, high-performance films (Super Ceramic IR Tint and C2 Carbon Tint) tailored to Guam’s tropical climate.
Local drivers and fleet owners trust our team for reliable results without legal surprises.

Whether you tint for comfort, UV protection, privacy, or medical needs, Cherry Auto Detailing ensures your window film complies with Guam law. If you’re also considering window tint cost, contact us today for a cooler, safer, and street-legal ride in Guam.

Can you get pulled over for tint alone?
It is possible that if you have illegally tinted windows, you could be pulled over for that reason only.
Is 35% or 20% tint darker?
20% has a lower VLT and is therefore darker than 35% tint.
Is 30% tint legal all around?
That will depend upon your state and what types of windows you are using. The front windows of a vehicle typically have to be tinted with a lighter shade of tint.
How does 70% window tint look?
A 70% tint will have a light shade and look somewhat like clear glass but will still block UV rays and reduce glare.
Is 15% or 30% tint darker?
15% will be the darker of the two percentages and will more than likely be illegal for use on the front windows of most vehicles.