The darkest legal tint on Florida front side windows is 28% VLT, and rear windows must be at least 15%. Within those limits, the most popular choices are 35% for a lighter, subtle look or 28% for maximum legal darkness up front — usually paired with 15–20% on the rear. SUVs and trucks can go as dark as they want on the back windows. Here's how to choose.
What Does Tint Percentage (VLT) Mean?
VLT stands for Visible Light Transmission — the percentage of light the film lets through. A lower number is darker: 5% is nearly blackout "limo" tint, while 50% is very light. Florida sets minimums so your windows aren't too dark to see through.
Popular Florida-Legal Percentages
35%: A clean, moderate look that's legal on all windows — a popular all-around choice.
28% front / 15–20% rear: Maximum legal darkness up front with darker rears for privacy.
5% (limo) on SUV/truck rears: Legal because Florida places no darkness limit on the rear windows of SUVs, trucks, and vans.
Quick Legal Recap
Front side windows must allow at least 28% of light in; rear side and back windows at least 15% (no limit on SUV/truck rears). No colored or overly reflective tint. For the full rules, see our Florida window tint law guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 20% tint legal in Florida?
Not on front side windows (it's below 28%), but yes on the rear windows of SUVs and trucks.
What percentage is best for heat?
Heat rejection depends more on the film type than the darkness — a light ceramic tint can beat a dark dyed one. Ask us about ceramic tint.
Can you help me pick a legal shade?
Yes — our installers match your preference to a Florida-legal percentage during your free consultation.
Contact Elite Window Tinting or call (850) 930-1195 to get started.
