October 2026 · By the Divine Detailers team
Before you pick a tint, it helps to know what the law allows. Florida sets limits on how dark and how reflective tint can be, and the limits depend on the window and the type of vehicle.
What VLT means
VLT stands for visible light transmission. It is the percentage of visible light that passes through the glass and film together. A higher number means lighter tint. A film rated 30% lets 30% of the light through.
The limits people commonly quote
- Front side windows: at least 28% of light must get through.
- Rear side windows and rear window on a sedan: at least 15%.
- SUVs, vans and similar vehicles: the rules for rear windows are more lenient, and sources often quote a lower minimum such as 6%.
- Windshield: non-reflective tint is allowed only above the manufacturer's AS-1 line, or the top few inches if there is no line.
- Reflectivity: limits apply to how mirror-like the film can be, and mirrored or color-changing films are not allowed.
Check the exact rules for your car
The numbers above are the figures usually cited, but the rules depend on how your vehicle is classified, and the law can change. Read the current Florida statutes (sections 316.2951 to 316.2957) or ask a tint shop to confirm the limits for your exact vehicle before you choose a shade.
Medical exemptions
Florida allows exemptions for people with certain medical conditions that require limited exposure to light. This involves a physician's statement and state paperwork, so ask the state agency for the current process.
Why it matters
- Illegal tint can lead to a citation and a requirement to remove the film.
- Tint that is too dark can make night driving harder.
- A reputable installer will tell you what is legal and will not install a shade that is clearly outside the limits.
This article is general information, not legal advice.
Learn more
See our window tint service page for how we do it, or request a free quote and we will help you choose what fits your vehicle.